Home and Away star Dieter Brummer found dead at 45

The Australian actor played Shane Parrish on the show in the 1990s

Dieter Brummer, best known for his role opposite Melissa George as Shane Parrish on Home and Away, has died aged 45. It's understood he was found dead in Glenhaven, in Sydney’s north-west, on Saturday afternoon. His death is not being treated as suspicious. A fan favourite, Brummer appeared on the long-running soap from 1991 to 1996, starring in 557 episodes. However, his character was written out of the show in 1996 although Brummer continued to act, picking up TV roles in Medevac, Shark Bay, Underbelly, Winners and Losers and Neighbours. A spokesperson from Seven said in statement on Monday: “Home and Away and Channel 7 are deeply saddened to hear of Dieter Brummer’s passing. 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. We send our sincere condolences to Dieter’s family and friends during this very difficult time.” Brummer's family also released a statement saying his death had left a "massive hole" in their lives. “On behalf of my family, we post this today with a heavy heart,” it said. “We lost our handsome, talented, funny, complicated and beloved Dieter on Saturday morning. “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,” the family said.