Actor Belinda Emmett, wife of television personality Rove McManus, has died after a long battle with cancer.

"It is with great sadness we advise that Belinda Emmett's battle with cancer has ended," Emmett's family said in a statement.

"Belinda passed away just after dawn this morning at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney with her family and husband by her side.

"Those close to her have requested respect for their privacy at this time."

Emmett grew up on NSW's Central Coast and got her acting break when she appeared on popular long-running soap Home and Away, playing Rebecca Fisher, between 1996 and 1999.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998 at the age of 24.

The actor successfully underwent surgery to remove a malignant tumour, followed by six weeks of radiotherapy.

In 2001, Emmett was diagnosed with secondary bone cancer.

The Seven Network paid tribute to Emmett.

"Our deepest sympathy is extended to Belinda's family who have supported her through this illness," Seven said in a statement.

"During Belinda's time on Home and Away and All Saints, she made many long-lasting friendships.

"Her acting ability and her warmth made her a joy to work with and her spirit will be remembered."

On Home and Away, Emmett played Rebecca Fisher/Nash from 1996 to 1999.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer while working on the show in 1998, at the age of 24.

Emmett played Jodi Horner on medical drama All Saints from 2000 to 2001.

Prime Minister John Howard also offered his condolences.

"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.

"On behalf of (my wife) Janette and myself, I extend my deepest sympathies to her husband, Rove McManus, and her family and friends."

She fought the big 'C' all the way, and very bravely too, but in the end she lost the battle.

Very sad.

Shit! Thats sad to hear. I remember her from H&A years ago. Condolences to the family. RIP

So very sad. Condolences. RIP.

As a tribute to her...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belinda_Emmett

So sad to hear. A great loss for her husband Rove McManus and family...

May she rest in peace.

LaoPo

Very sad to hear Belinda Emmett lost her battle with cancer. RIP.

Another actress and singer, who has won the fight against the breast cancer, made a triumphant return to the stage in a sell out concert in Sydney last night.

Kylie Minogue was given a two minute standing ovation when she entered the stage to resume her "Showgirl" world tour after a long battle with the disease.

shock news.. sad!

Yeah I was shocked when i heard it. I thought she won the battle with cancer awhile ago and she was fine, I never new she was still fighting against another cancer.

Rove is also a top bloke, I think his show will be called off for awhile.

Rove has pulled the pin on his show for the rest of the year. I think we can understand why.