AUSTRALIAN actress Cornelia Frances has passed away aged 77 following a battle with cancer.
The Liverpool-born star was best-known for her role as Morag Bellingham on the long-running soap Home and Away.
She was also celebrated in her role as the host of the Australian version of Weakest Link.
She had been diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2017.
Her death was announced by Home and Away broadcaster Channel Seven on Tuesday morning.
Stars from across the world of Australian entertainment and beyond have been paying tribute on social media.
Vale Cornelia Frances. You were the strongest link. Goodbye.
— Patrick Avenell (@Patrickavenell) May 29, 2018
Ray Meagher, who played Frances' on screen brother Alf Stewart, said: "Cornie was an incredibly loved and valued member of our cast over many, many years.
"We had a moment of silence for her on set this morning and she'll be sadly missed by both cast and crew."
Lincoln Younes, who played Casey Braxton on Home and Away from 2011 to 2014, tweeted: "#CorneliaFrances. You were always ahead of the game. Will miss your witty banter on-set X."
Vale #CorneliaFrances. You were always ahead of the game. Will miss your witty banter on-set X
— Lincoln Younes (@lincolnyounes1) May 29, 2018
The Seven Network described Frances as a "unique" actress.
"Her on screen presence inspired a generation of actors," it said in a statement.
"This gift was coupled with an ability to bring a sense of dignity and presence into each room she entered."
I met Cornelia Frances when I was 11. I was pretty terrified but she could not have been sweeter and I have always remembered that. Sad day.
— Joel Creasey (@joelcreasey) May 29, 2018
Frances studied acting at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London before emigrating to Australia in 1970.
She first appeared on Home and Away in 1988 and made her final appearance on the soap last year.
She leaves behind one son, Lawrence.
