Neighbours cast pays tribute to Janet Andrewartha after actress died in her sleep aged 72

Neighbours stars Janet Andrewartha have shared their grief after the shock death of longtime star Janet Andrewartha at age 72.

Andrewartha starred on the show as Lyn Scully, and her on-screen daughter has offered a heartbreaking a tribute after Andrewartha died in her sleep.

Holly Valance, who now goes by her married name Holly Candy, took to Twitter to remember her on-screen mum.

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"Deeply sad losing Janet Andrewartha," she wrote alongside a sweet image of the pair. "She was a superb human being who taught me so much from the age of 15."

Candy left the show in 2002 to focus on her music career. She now lives in England with her husband.

She recalled Andrewartha's last visit to the UK, saying she will 'treasure it forever'.

"Precious memories I'm so grateful for," Candy wrote. "A beautiful, talented, hilarious & kind woman. I'm so glad it was you who played my Mum.

"You were the real deal. Made us feel safe. And looked after us when we were all so young in the industry. It was an honour to work beside you and call you a friend."

Other Neighbours co-stars have also shared tributes to their late co-worker and friend.

Jackie Woodburn, who stars as Susan Kennedy and reportedly shared a very close relationship with Andrewartha, shared a tribute on the official Neighbours account.

"Janet was one of the finest actors of her generation, but more than that, she was an extraordinary woman," Woodburn wrote. "Passionate, political, curious, delightfully eccentric, generous and fun. To me she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day."

Stefan Dennis, who plays Paul Robinson on Ramsay Street, took to the comments section to share his condolences.

"So very upset to lose the lovely Janet," he shared. "As Jackie said, she truly was an exceptional actress who was a pleasure work with and to be around. We will all miss you dear girl. ❤️"

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Lucinda Cowden starred as Melanie Pearson during the early days of the show. She also shared a tribute in the comments.

"I remember when I first saw her on Prisoner … she lit up the screen," Cowden wrote. [She] continued to grace us with her exceptional talent in so many interesting and unique characters Vale Janet 💜💜💜"

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