Beloved Australian soap star dies at age 85
Beloved Australian soap star Leila Hayes has died at the age of 85.
The popular actress died peacefully at a hospital in Sydney’s Northern Beaches after facing long-term health challenges, according to the post on a Facebook page announcing her death.
Best known for her role on Sons and Daughters, Hayes also went on to dabble in singing, hosting a radio show and writing throughout her stellar career.
Hayes appeared in popular drama series including Homicide, Power Without Glory, The Sullivans, Prisoner, and Cop Shop.
She is best remembered for her of role of Beryl Palmer in the soap opera Sons and Daughters, playing the part in close to 1,000 episodes over the course of the show’s five-year run beginning in 1982.
Hayes also proved herself as a radio presenter, hosting New Day Australia with Leila Hayes on Radio 2UE, a successful midnight-to-dawn program.
The accomplished performer established the Leila Hayes Drama Studio in Melbourne in 1979 and branched out to Sydney in 1987, where she nurtured up-and-coming talent.
The Drama Studio confirmed the news of Leila's passing, with her daughter Melissa sharing her thanks for all the kind messages of support.
"Thank you for your condolences, shared memories and support. It means the world to me and my family at this difficult time," Leila's daughter wrote.
"Yesterday’s message was not easy to share, and done only out of the great respect she had for all those who have followed, worked with or studied with her over the years. I am sure she would feel incredibly humbled by the overwhelmingly loving support. Thank you."
Image credits: 7News