The cast and crew of Channel Seven's hit drama All Saints are in mourning after star Mark Priestley was found dead.
It is believed the 32-year-old actor, who played nurse Dan Goldman, suffered from depression and took his own life.
There are no suspicious circumstances.
"Mark was such a brilliant artist. His work on stage and screen was admired by everybody who knew him. His death is such a sad loss," Seven’s Director of programming and production, Tim Worner, told News Limited.
Priestley, a Perth born actor, moved to Sydney in 1997 to attend NIDA, Australia's most prestigious acting college.
He joined the cast of All Saints in 2004.
His All Saints character recently married Erica Templeton, played by Jolene Anderson, driving a huge ratings surge on Tuesday night.
Actress Anna Hruby, who worked with Priestly on the landmark episode, was shocked at the news of his passing.
"It was such a lovely experience working with him. He's just a gorgeous young actor, delightful to work with. And of course he did so much work outside of All Saints as well, he did alot of theatre work and was very well respected."
"It’s just incredibly sad when somebody so young passes away with so much future in front of them." she told LIVENEWS.com.au
Condolences have also been pouring in by fans on the official All Saints message board:
"Rest in Peace Mark Priestley - I am so saddened by the news of your death. You were such a wonderful actor who bought life to All Saints with your character Dan Goldman."
"He was just really coming into the show more and more. I'm shocked to hear he took his own life."
"Totally in shock. As a student nurse his character has been part of my inspiration, how I want to be as a nurse. Who knew he was in so much pain. Prayers to his family and friends who would be suffering right now."
"I am totally shocked by this news. He was one of my favourites on the show. Depression is a silent killer. I know because I have had it as well. Rest in peace Mark. You are a legend."
"My friend just rang to tell me this really really sad news...i have watched All Saints from the beginning too.. My heart goes out to Mark's family, friends and to the fantastic cast of All Saints its truly a big loss. my thoughts are with you all at the very tragic time. "
It’s the second shock to hit the show this year - star Virginia Gay was mugged and bashed by two men who allegedly went on to kill a man just 30 minutes later.