In a heartfelt and unexpected announcement this week, former Home and Away star Blake Harrison (known to fans as “Ethan Sawyer”) revealed the sudden death of his former on‑screen colleague and longtime friend, Jackson “Jack” Murray. The news has stunned the Australian television community and reopened memories of one of Summer Bay’s most beloved eras.

According to Blake’s social‑media statement, Jack Murray — who appeared in several Home and Away storylines during the late 2010s, portraying the charismatic lifeguard Tom Wells — passed away in his sleep on Tuesday evening. The cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed, though close friends say he had not been suffering from any known long‑term illness.

“It is with deepest sadness I confirm that my brother, Jack Murray, has left us. A kind, fierce and authentic man, he touched the lives of so many. This is a terrible shock,” Blake wrote, his voice clearly broken with grief.

Those who followed the Home and Away episodes during Jack’s tenure as Tom Wells will recall how his character underwent a dramatic redemption arc: first introduced as a rebellious newcomer, Tom eventually became a pillar of the Summer Bay community, saving lives and forming strong friendships with familiar faces like Irene Robinson and Alf Stevens. His departure from the show in 2019 marked the end of a memorable era.
In interviews at the time, Jack described his role as “the one that changed everything” for him. That shift from trouble‑maker to hero resonated strongly with fans, and his exit left a gap seldom filled. That same courage and warmth now is being remembered by many across the industry.

Since leaving the series, Jack had continued to act sporadically, taking guest roles in pumped‑up dramas and independent productions, while also dedicating himself to charitable work in his hometown of Byron Bay. Friends say he was quietly planning a return to television in 2026—projects now indefinitely on hold. In his message, Blake indicated he and Jack had been discussing a reunion of their Home and Away castmates for a possible special; “Jack was enthusiastic about reconnecting the old crew and showing Summer Bay one more time,” Blake recalled. “I just can’t believe this is how it ends.”

The outpouring of public support has been immediate. Former cast members and crews posted messages of shock and sorrow, sharing throwback photographs and behind‑the‑scenes memories. One co‑actor noted: “Jack always made the most out of filming those long beach shots—he was the first in and last out. His laughter was infectious.”
For fans, the news brings back memories of the Days of Summer Bay: the sun‑drenched scenes, the cliff‑hanger rescues, and those tight‑knit friendships mirrored on screen. Jack’s death feels like a sudden closing of a chapter, and many viewers are taking to social media to express gratitude for how his character resonated with them.

As of now, no funeral or memorial details have been officially released, though friends say arrangements are being handled privately and a public tribute will follow. Blake’s statement ends with a request for privacy for Jack’s family: “Please remember him in joy. He lived fully, fiercely, and kindly. We will miss him terribly.”

In the coming days, several networks are reported to be planning retrospective features, revisiting Jack Murray’s most impactful episodes on Home and Away. For fans old and new, this is a chance to reflect not only on a cherished television story—but on the man behind it, gone far too soon.