Beloved TV star dies suddenly as famous daughter pays tribute

New Zealand actress Michala Banas has announced the sudden passing of her father, writer and director John Banas. Over a career spanning more than four decades, John wrote over 200 hours of television, including six telemovies based on true stories. He worked extensively in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, leaving a remarkable legacy in the industry. His daughter Michala followed him into the industry, and is best known for her roles as Marissa Taylor in Always Greener and Kate Manfredi in McLeod's Daughters.

Sharing news of John's unexpected death on Instagram, Michala began: "Yesterday, my Dad John died suddenly. I am utterly heartbroken and in complete shock. And even though I'm a grown woman, the kid in me wants the world to stop and know how amazing he was. "F*****g amazing. And so I post these few pics of a beautiful man with his adoring (and often silly) daughter. Did I say he was amazing? You need to know that. All of you. Love you beyond words Dad."

The gallery of photos included a younger Michala with her father, as well as images of the late TV star cradling his dog and playing the guitar.

John's career was widely recognised, earning him New Zealand industry nominations for Best Actor (Stage and TV), and in 1984, he was voted Best Scriptwriter.

He went on to receive the Prix Italia for Best Educational Script in 1997 and won the Australian Writers' Guild Award for Best Script in a Television Series in 2001.

John wrote the telemovies Siege and Safe House, both earning nominations for Best Drama at the 2012 New Zealand Screen Writers Awards. Siege went on to win Best Drama at the NZ Television Awards and was also voted People's Choice for Best on The Box.

Throughout his career, John's talents as a scriptwriter, director, and producer led him to create award-winning shows, including Headland, All Saints, Blue Heelers, Stingers, and Murder Call. He co-created the hit series City Homicide, writing over 30 episodes of the iconic drama series.

In 2001, John was awarded the Australian Centenary Medal in the Queen's New Year Honours List for his outstanding contribution to Australian society through his work in television writing.

Tributes have begun flooding in for the late star, with one writing: "Never witnessed a more inspiring, heart-warming, connecting, loving father-daughter combo in my life. All the love in the world to you, dear friend. That angel raised an angel. Thanks John."

Commenting on Michala's post, another penned: "Oh gosh - I remember him in Chicago when Wellington first did it. He was amazing. I'm very sad to hear this news."

A third echoed: "Very sad to hear this news. John was the Director on my first job in the film industry now thirty years ago. My condolences to Michala."

Another shared: "Oh no - a very good man - Rest Well now Jon and thanks for your wonderful work - xox."