In heartbreaking news that has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away community, beloved fictional former cast member Michael “Mick” Harwood, known to fans for his unforgettable portrayal of Summer Bay’s salty-yet-soft-hearted fisherman Gus Henderson, has died peacefully at age 67.

The actor’s family confirmed the news late last night, releasing a brief but emotional statement acknowledging the “deep loss of a man who gave everything to his craft and to the fans who adored him.” According to relatives, Harwood passed away in his sleep following a short but aggressive illness that he had chosen to keep private.

Harwood joined Home and Away in the mid-1990s, quickly becoming a cult favourite thanks to his rugged charm, wry humour, and the heartbreaking vulnerability he brought to the troubled but big-hearted Gus. Though his tenure on the show lasted just three years, his legacy stretched far beyond his episodes. Storylines involving Gus—particularly his tragic battle with alcoholism and his unlikely friendship with fan-favourite Alf Stewart—became some of the most replayed moments in Summer Bay history.

For many viewers, Harwood’s performance helped define a memorable era of the long-running soap, and his exit storyline, in which Gus sailed away from the Bay seeking a fresh start, remains deeply etched in the hearts of longtime fans.

Within hours of the announcement, tributes began pouring in from former colleagues, production staff, and a wave of loyal fans who had followed Harwood’s career long after he departed the Bay. One former castmate described him as “a gentle giant with a laugh that carried across the entire studio,” while another recalled how he “never walked onto set without making at least one person smile.”

Producers at Seven Network also issued a statement acknowledging Harwood’s contribution to the show’s legacy. “Michael Harwood was part of the fabric of Home and Away. His work left a lasting imprint on both the series and its audience. We honour his memory and send our deepest sympathies to his loved ones,” the message read.

Despite stepping away from television in recent years, Harwood continued to make occasional appearances at fan events, always greeting attendees with the same down-to-earth warmth that made him a fixture in Australian entertainment. Many fans today are sharing stories of his kindness—how he remembered names, took time for every photo, and genuinely loved meeting the people who supported his work.

Harwood is survived by his partner, two children, and three grandchildren, who described him as “a storyteller to the end.”

As the entertainment industry mourns, Home and Away viewers around the world are revisiting old episodes, sharing favourite moments, and reminding each other why Gus Henderson—and the man behind him—will always remain a cherished part of Summer Bay history.

A memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days.