BELOVED Home and Away star Ben Unwin has died aged 41, cops have said.

Officers from New South Wales Police found his body at his home in Minyon Falls, about three hours’ drive south of Brisbane, on August 14 – the day before his 42nd birthday.

The actor played ‘bad boy’ character Jesse McGregor on the long-running Aussie soap from 1996 to 2000 and then from 2002 to 2005.

Cops are not treating his death as suspicious and an Australian TV writer said: “I’m so sad he felt there was no other way for him.”

In a statement, NSW Police said: “Police attended Minyon Falls, Whian Whian, responding to a concern for welfare.

“The body of a 41-year-old man was located. The death has not been treated as suspicious.”

Ben had left acting and pursued a career as a lawyer completing a law degree and working as a senior solicitor in Newcastle, NSW.

However, before his career in law, he also worked in the music industry directing videos for Culture Club including single I Just Wanna Be Loved and Chumbawamba’s smash hit Tubthumping.

FOUND DEAD AT HOME

In 1997, Ben spoke of his ambition to become a pop star and said he wanted to follow in the footsteps of legendary singer George Michael – who was also found dead at his home.

He said: “I love playing the guitar and I’m launching myself as a solo artist in the New Year.

“I’m going to bring out a single. I’d love to be as big as George Michael one day – but we’ll see.”

A spokesperson for Channel Seven and Home and Away said the show was “saddened” by his death.

They said: “Cast and crew from Home and Away are saddened to learn of the passing of former castmate, Ben Unwin.

“Ben’s work in the role of Jesse McGregor is remembered with much affection.

“Ben’s family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.”

Kimberley Cooper, who played Gypsy Smith on the soap, told News.com.au she was “just so sad” to hear of Ben’s passing.

She said: “He was a gift to come to work with every day and to be on the receiving end of his friendship was to know unwavering support, loyalty and love.”

Cooper paid tribute to her co-star on Instagram, posting a photo of them on the cover of TV Week.

In the caption, she wrote: “My first TV week cover was with you. We had years of laughter, be it giggles on set trying to get through scenes as lovers or doubled over belly laughs at the pubs after work.

“I will be sad for now, but I promise to tell stories of great joy about our times together. You forever hold a special place in my heart. Love you Onion.”

Another co-star Ada Nicodemou wrote: “I just woke up to the tragic news of Ben’s passing, my heart goes out to his family.”

Aussie TV writer Dan Bennett tweeted: “Devastated to hear this news. Ben was an utterly lovely guy. I’m so sad he felt there was no other way for him. Rest in peace, mate.”

Who was Ben Unwin?

Sydney-born actor Ben Unwin was best known for his role of Jesse McGregor on Home And Away for a decade.

While he had initially auditioned for another role, he ultimately landed the role of Summer Bay bad boy Jesse, which was written specifically for him.

Ben first played Jesse in a four-year stint from 1996, then again from 2002 to 2005.

The Australian actor was nominated for Most Popular New Talent at the 1997 Logie Awards.