Dieter Brummer: Former Home and Away star found dead at 45

Dieter Brummer, who played Shane Parrish on long-running Channel 7 soap Home and Away, has died.

New South Wales police responded to “reports of a concern for welfare at a home on Glenhaven Road, Glenhaven” on Saturday morning, where they found Brummer deceased.

He was 45.

“His death is not believed to be suspicious,” a police statement said.

“A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.”

Brummer rose to prominence in the early 1990s on the hit show and played the role of Shane from 1992 to 1996.

He won the Most Popular Actor Logie in 1995 and 1996.

He followed his Home and Away role by starring in the hospital drama Medivac.

Brummer returned to TV screens in 2009, when he joined the cast of the second and third series of Australian organised crime drama Underbelly, before joining Neighbours in 2011.

The actor’s family released a statement which was posted to Facebook by friend Steve Comey.

“We lost our handsome, talented, funny, complicated and beloved Dieter on Saturday morning,” it said.

“He has left a massive hole in our lives and our world will never be the same.

“Our thoughts go out to all of you who knew him, loved him, or worked with him over the years.

“We appreciate you respecting our privacy at this terrible time.

“Should you, or anyone you know be affected by this, or indeed are feeling pain at this time, there are good people that you can talk to.

“Please pick up the phone - Lifeline 13 11 14.”

His former Home and Away castmate Lynne McGranger said: “Utterly shocked and saddened to hear of Dieter’s passing. I hope he’s at peace now.”

Ray Meagher, who plays Alf Stewart on the show and worked alongside Brummer, said he had fond memories of his co-star.

“Dieter was a wonderful, fresh-faced. good looking uncomplicated young bloke when he was on Home and Away over 25 years ago,” he said.

“It’s very sad to hear of his passing at such a young age. Our thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time.”

A spokesperson for Channel 7 said the network was “deeply saddened” to hear of the actor’s death.

“Dieter was a much-loved Home and Away cast member and celebrated by Australian and international audiences for his award-winning portrayal of Shane Parrish,” they said.

“We send our sincere condolences to Dieter’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”

Lifeline: 13 11 14