Belinda Emmett was the sweetheart who won the hearts of television viewers playing the role of Rebecca Fischer on Home and Away.
She also stole the heart of Australian television host, Rove McManus, who was at her bedside along with her family.
Emmett first revealed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer in May 1998, while filming Home and Away.
She passed away at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital just after dawn at the age of 32.
"I was very saddened to learn of the death of Belinda Emmett," Mr Howard told AAP after learning of the actor's passing.
"She fought a very courageous battle against cancer," he said.
"On behalf of (my wife) Janette and myself, I extend my deepest sympathies to her husband, Rove McManus, and her family and friends."