Miranda Fryer, known for playing a young Sky Mangel in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, died in her sleep in January 2022 aged just 34. She had left acting behind to pursue a career in nursing.
Fryer first appeared as the daughter of Joe and Kerry Mangel in 1989 and remained in the role for three years. She was just 18 months old when she joined the cast on Ramsey Street and became the first child actor to be given a contract on the soap. By the time Sky returned as a teenager in 2003, Fryer had already stepped away from acting and was replaced by Stephanie McIntosh.
Life after acting
Instead of continuing a life in showbusiness, Fryer wanted a career in nursing. She had recently graduated before she died and had aspirations to further her education. She was set to join Monash Hospital's neuroscience department in February 2022 following the completion of her degree in the middle of the Covid pandemic. Fryer was keen to pursue a master's in neuroscience.
She married her partner, Arthur Pothitis, in November 2020, and the couple hoped to become parents. As well as her nursing degree, Fryer also had a certificate in hospitality and an art diploma to her name.
Tributes and family statement
Her family released a statement at the time of her death, saying: "True soulmates, Miranda and Arthur (Pothitis) were making plans to start their family, when one day last week she went to sleep and never woke up. We do not know why." The statement added: "She had had some health issues with her heart, maybe her beautiful persona was just too good for this world of ours. We, who all loved her so much, shall treasure the memories she has left us with and mourn our loss forever."
Miranda's mother, Traci Hunter, told the Herald Sun: "She was the most wonderful daughter. She had so much love and passion for life." Describing her as a beacon of kindness and love, Traci added: "She was a truly kind, loving person, almost too good to be true... Miranda was adored by everyone."
Jan Russ, a Neighbours casting director, said: "I feel so very sad to lose one of my cast and especially one so young as Miranda who spent her very young years on the show. I love them like my own and feel the loss when they pass." Neighbours fan account Erinsborough News also paid tribute, writing on Instagram: "Our deepest sympathies are extended to her family during this time."
