Cornelia Frances has died aged 77.
The ‘Home and Away’ actress – who played Morag Bellingham in the long running Australian soap since her debut in 1988 – had battled with cancer, revealing earlier this year she had been diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2017, and it had spread to her bones.
The British-born star’s sad death was announced by the show’s broadcaster Seven Network on Tuesday (29.05.18), and the channel has paid its respects in a touching statement.
It read: "Cornelia Frances was a unique person. Her on screen presence inspired a generation of actors. This gift was coupled with an ability to bring a sense of dignity and presence into each room she entered. Her energy and character will be missed."
Ray Meagher – who played her on-screen brother Alf Stewart – revealed the cast had "a moment of silence" on set to remember the veteran actress.
He said: "Cornie was an incredibly loved and valued member of our cast over many, many years. We had a moment of silence for her on set this morning and she’ll be sadly missed by both cast and crew."
With a career spanning more than 50 years, Frances starred in popular Australian soaps and drams including ‘Prisoner,’ ‘Sons and Daughters’ and ‘The Young Doctors’.
She became best known for her role as Morag, who she played in various stints from 1988 until 2017.
Speaking of her health issues at the beginning of this year, she told Sydney’s Daily Telegraph: "I discovered I had bladder cancer.
"This then spread to my hip bone which fractured, and then I almost died from loss of blood due to an ulcer in my throat. Despite all this, I am still here, as the old song goes."
She is survived by her son, Lawrence.
Home and Away actress Cornelia Frances dies
