Soldier, Soldier star tragically dies at at 61 as co-stars left devastated

Marise Wipani has tragically died aged 61.
The actress, best known for appearing in Soldier, Soldier and Xena: Warrior Princess, died on her birthday on Friday.
Her Facebook page announced the news of her death in a sad message to friends and family. 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 byyye, good luuuck, good God!!! Quote from Driving Miss Daisy."
Her cause of death was not shared in the post.
The New Zealand actress' co-star Jay Laga'aia, who appeared on British drama Soldier, Soldier with her, said that he was "devastated" to hear about 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."
While Ian Mune, who directed Came a Hot Friday (which she starred in), 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.'
Other friends and fans also shared their respects, with one writing: "Devastated to hear this. She was always such a rock star and incredibly funny. We lost a beautiful woman today." While another commented: "So sad to hear this. Love and hugs to whanau."
A third sharing the post wrote: "Heart broken but you'll never be forgotten sis. After all your achievements in life to go so humbly I will miss you and cherish your memory thank you for our final conversation lastnight, for giving me some of your precious final moments. Much love Marise til we meet again ,no more pain Moe moe ra xoxox."
Marise first began her career in the early 80s when she was spotted by the Miss New Zealand pageant producer, who had encouraged her to compete. She went on to be cast as a variety of characters on the Billy T. James Show and in 1985, won the role as Esmerelda in Ian Mune's Came a Hot Friday.
In the late 80s and early 90s, she became the host of the televised draw for Lotto New Zealand.

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