Shortland Street star Francis 'Frankie' Mossman dies aged 33

Frankie Mossman  has sadly died aged 33.
The Sydney-based actor was an active member of the LGBTIQ+ acting community. Photo credit: Instagram.

New Zealand actor Francis Mossman has died at age 33 from a suspected suicide. 

The Sydney-based Shortland Street star was also known for his roles in the web series The Horizon and TV series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. 

A family representative shared an Instagram post on Mossman's account on Saturday, stating the actor endured "so much pain". 

Several LGBTIQ+ websites, including Queer Screen Australia and Stonewall Hotel, have paid homage to the actor on social media. 

In a statement, a spokesperson for Queer Screen Australia says the organisation has been "saddened" to hear of Mossman's passing. 

"Moving from Auckland to Sydney in 2012, Frankie was a well-known member of our LGBTIQ+ community, appearing in numerous NZ and Australian productions including the Sydney-made gay web series, The Horizon," the statement reads. 

"Frankie was a great friend of Queer Screen, starring in our MGFF16 trailer and was always an enthusiastic audience member at our festivals. Our sincere condolences to all his friends and family.  

"May he Rest In Peace." 

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