Soldier, Soldier and Xena: Warrior Princess star Marise Wipani has died at the age of 61. Tragically, the former Miss New Zealand died on her birthday on Friday, June 6.
Her cause of death has not yet been revealed. However a Facebook post on her page shared the news, and a sad final message to followers.
It read: “Marise passed peacefully today on her 61st birthday surrounded by family and friends. She just wanted to say… I have shuffled off this mortal coil.
“Good bye, good luck, good God! Quote from Driving Miss Daisy.”
A number of people shared their sadness underneath the post. One said: “So sad to hear this. Love and huge to whanau.”
(Image: Marise Wipani/Facebook)
Another said: “Beautiful darling girl… Love you forever.” A third wrote: “Oh Marise! You clever beautiful funny lady, rest now.”
The actress and model began her career in the 1980s. She was known for roles in Shortland Street, Xena: Warrior Princess and Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.
She would also go on to appear in the comedy Came A Hot Friday, and host Lotto in New Zealand, with her known as the Lotto Lady, which she started in 1987.
Marise also appeared on British drama Soldier, Soldier. Her co-star Jay Laga;aia said he was “devastated” to hear of her death.
He said: “You are so young and I will miss you. We have worked together over the years and I was always so pleased to have you on set. Travel well my sister, love you always.”
Came A Hot Friday director Ian Mune paid tribute too. Ian said: “Your presence and performance added a whole layer to that movie arising from your truth and honesty. It was what always struck me whenever we met. Fly high, Princess.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
