How 21 years ago, McLeod's Daughters delivered one of the most heart-wrenching moments in TV history

Twenty-one years ago, Australians were left reeling over the sudden loss of one of the nation's most beloved characters.

It was a death that stunned the nation, a moment that sent ripples through the iconic drama McLeod's Daughters.

Stream every episode ever of McLeod's Daughters for free on 9Now.

The day was October 15, 2003. Claire McLeod (Lisa Chappell) tragically fell from a cliff, cementing her death as one of the most heart-wrenching moments in television history.

You can catch the shocking TV moment right here:

With it's rural landscapes, dynamic characters, captivating romances and never-ending family drama, McLeod's Daughters is one of the most beloved Australian shows of all time.

Arguably one of the most unforgettable episodes of the series, Claire's unexpected death continues to haunt fans even decades after it aired.

READ MORE: The 10 most iconic McLeod's Daughters episodes of all time

The story follows two estranged sisters, Claire and Tess, reunited after 20 years when they inherit their family's cattle station, 'Drover's Run', in the outback of South Australia.

The tragedy occurs in Season 3, Episode 28. Let's set the scene...

Claire, Tess and Claire's baby daughter Charlotte are involved in a car accident that leaves their vehicle dangling over the edge of a cliff.

Tess and Charlotte were able to leap to safety but Claire was unable and remained inside as it plunged over the edge.

Viewers were in shock as they watched Claire's final moments unfold.

This unexpected and sudden passing not only marked a turning point for the show but also showcased the unpredictable and often harsh realities of life in the Australian outback.

IN PICTURES: 34 guest stars you forgot were on McLeod's Daughters

The emotional impact of Claire's demise reverberated through the rest of the series, changing the dynamics at Drover's Run forever.

From that moment on, McLeod's entered a new era without Claire and to be honest, we're still not over it either.

READ MORE: 'Where they put Claire's coffin': McLeod's Daughters superfan documents stay at Drover's Run homestead

But that wasn't the only moment that stunned the nation.

From beautiful births to reunions and marriages, relive some of the best moments here:

Welcome Home — Season 1, Episode 1

The moment that started it all — Tess arrives at Drover's Run to reunite with her sister Claire after the death of their father. It was the beginning of an incredible journey of love, family and friendship.

Ever After — Season 7, Episode 16

It was a long time coming but finally Stevie and Alex said 'I do'. The ride to the altar wasn't without drama though, with Alex stuck in jail and his sister Ashleigh causing problems.

Close Enough to Touch — Season 8, Episode 6

A death and a birth in the same episode — we're not crying, you're crying. This was the absolute definition of tragedy and hope. Alex returns from Argentina only to be crushed to death by a falling tree trunk. Not long after Stevie gives birth to their child in a powerful scene.

Stream every episode ever of McLeod's Daughters for free on 9Now.

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