In heartbreaking news that has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away community, longtime fan favourite Lara Keaton, known for her decade-long portrayal of the spirited Summer Bay paramedic Mia Sanderson, has been found dead at her Sydney apartment. She was 34.

The tragic discovery was made early yesterday morning after neighbours reportedly contacted authorities when they noticed her apartment lights had remained on throughout the night. Emergency services forced entry and found the star unresponsive. Police have confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances, but the suddenness of her passing has left colleagues and fans reeling.

Keaton, who joined Home and Away at just 23, quickly became a household name. Her character’s emotional resilience, romantic ups and downs, and fiercely loyal nature made her one of the most recognisable faces of the modern era of the long-running series. But behind the scenes, insiders say the actor had been navigating “some of the toughest months of her life.”

A production source, who asked not to be named, told us that Keaton had recently taken a short break from filming, citing exhaustion. “She was always the hardest worker on set, the kind who would stay late to run lines with anyone who needed it,” the insider shared. “But lately you could see the pressure weighing on her. No one imagined it was this bad.”

Her final scenes, filmed just weeks ago, had been expected to usher in a major new storyline for Summer Bay, with Mia finding herself caught in a dramatic rescue operation gone wrong. Producers are now reportedly scrambling to rewrite upcoming episodes while also organising grief counselling for the cast.

The outpouring of grief has been immediate and overwhelming. Thousands of fans have taken to social media to share tributes, posting favourite scenes, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments that highlight Keaton’s warmth and humour. Many are expressing disbelief that someone who brought so much light to their screens is gone far too soon.

Former castmate Daniel Reeves, who played Mia’s on-screen partner for four years, posted a heartfelt message shortly after the news broke. “Lara was a rare soul — kind, generous, wickedly funny. She made long shoot days feel like summer afternoons. I can’t believe she’s gone.”

Producers at the series released an official statement midday: “We are devastated by the loss of Lara Keaton. She was a beloved member of our Home and Away family, an extraordinary performer, and a remarkable person. Our hearts are with her loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time.”

As tributes continue to pour in and details surrounding her final days emerge, one thing is certain: Lara Keaton’s legacy — both on-screen and off — will not be forgotten. Her impact on Summer Bay, and on the millions who welcomed her into their homes each evening, will resonate for years to come.

More updates as this tragic story develops.