In heartbreaking news rocking the Australian TV world, former Home and Away favourite Tahlia Rivers — who lit up Summer Bay in the late 2000s — has revealed she has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of ovarian cancer at just 40 years old.

The actress, known for her three-year run as rebellious surf prodigy Mia Sanderson, confirmed the diagnosis late last night through a spokesperson, sending shockwaves through fans and former castmates who remember her as one of the show’s brightest rising stars.

Sources close to Rivers say the diagnosis came “out of nowhere” after the actress sought medical advice following persistent abdominal pain she initially “chalked up to stress and exhaustion.” But within weeks, doctors delivered the news no one expected: Stage II cancer requiring immediate treatment.

“She’s absolutely shattered,” a close family friend tells SHOCK HOT. “Tahlia is strong, but this hit her like a truck. She thought she was just pushing herself too hard with work — no one imagined something this serious.”

Rivers, who stepped away from acting in 2015 to pursue directing and charity work, had until recently been developing her first independent film. According to insiders, the project has now been placed on hold indefinitely as she prepares to begin an intense course of surgery and chemotherapy.

Former Home and Away colleagues have been quick to rally behind her. One past co-star, who asked not to be named, says the cast group chat “lit up with messages within minutes” of hearing the news.

“Everyone is shaken. Tahlia was the kid who kept us laughing between takes, the one who would bring muffins to 5 a.m. call times. She has such a good heart. We’re all ready to do whatever she needs.”

Fans of the long-running soap will remember Rivers’ character Mia for some of the show’s most iconic early-2010s storylines, including a controversial runaway plot and a romance that once pushed ratings to season highs. Even after leaving Summer Bay, Rivers maintained a loyal fan base through charity work, surfing activism, and her famously candid interviews about life after fame.

But despite the overwhelming support, sources say the actress is bracing for a “gruelling battle.”

“Treatment starts this week,” the family friend confirms. “She’s determined, but she’s also scared — who wouldn’t be? She’s trying to stay positive, but it’s going to be a long road.”

Rivers’ family has requested privacy as she begins treatment, though they say the outpouring of messages from fans has “meant the world” to her during what insiders call the most challenging chapter of her life.

A statement from her team adds:
“Tahlia is focusing on her health and staying strong. She asks for space, love, and continued positivity.”

As the entertainment community rallies around her, one thing is clear: Summer Bay hasn’t forgotten Tahlia Rivers — and it won’t be letting her fight alone.