In the world of Home and Away, few characters have left as lasting an impression as Ruby Buckton, the complex, fiercely loyal, and often misunderstood young woman portrayed by Rebecca Breeds.

From her dramatic storylines between 2008 and 2012 to her continued success in international television, Ruby’s impact on Summer Bay and its viewers remains undeniable. Now, years later,

Breeds has opened up about a potential return to the show—a storyline that ultimately never materialized but could have brought Ruby back into the heart of the Bay.

A Missed Opportunity

Rebecca Breeds revealed to Aussie entertainment outlet Chattr that there was once a concrete plan for her to reprise the role of Ruby Buckton. The storyline, which involved the notorious River Boys traveling to England, included a role for Ruby. Fans were poised for a reunion with the character, but life had other plans.

“There was an opportunity years ago,” Breeds explained. “There was a storyline where the River Boys went to England, and they did want me to come back. I was working on a show called We Are Men at the time, and I couldn’t do it.”

The announcement is bittersweet for longtime Home and Away fans. Ruby Buckton had a turbulent tenure in Summer Bay, facing heartbreak, family drama, and personal challenges, and the prospect of seeing her return alongside the River Boys—a fan-favorite group known for shaking up the Bay—would have been a television event. Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts and the global reach of Breeds’ career prevented the storyline from moving forward, leaving fans to imagine what might have been.

Life After Summer Bay

Since leaving Summer Bay, Rebecca Breeds has made an impressive mark on international television. The actor has taken on roles in hit US dramas such as Pretty Little Liars, The Originals, and Legacies, demonstrating her versatility and earning a dedicated fan base overseas. Now living in Chicago with her real-life husband and former Home and Away co-star Luke Mitchell, Breeds has kept a close eye on developments in Summer Bay from afar.

Despite the distance, Breeds remains enthusiastic about the prospect of returning. “I loved that show,” she said of her willingness to reprise the role. “I never say never about things. It’s just a matter of timing and place, like we’re in Chicago right now. It’s a big, wide world with lots of exciting adventures and jobs, but we love home, and I can’t wait to be home, and I would love to work in Sydney again. So you know, watch this space, I suppose.”

Her words hint at the possibility that Summer Bay is not quite done with Ruby Buckton. Fans are left to speculate: Could there be a future storyline that allows Ruby to return, bringing her back into the tangled web of romance, family, and scandal that defines Home and Away?

Vindicating Ruby

When asked what kind of storyline she would want for Ruby if she returned, Breeds was unequivocal: her character deserves justice. “I wanna vindicate Ruby! She got a really hard rap at the end there. She was smooshed into the ground. It was unfair. I say justice for Ruby,” she declared.

The actress reflected on Ruby’s dramatic and often heartbreaking journey on the show. Ruby lost her mother, struggled with alcohol, and endured some of the most emotionally challenging storylines in Summer Bay history. “She lost her mum, right? And then she turned to alcohol, and I almost had a mental breakdown because every time I got a script I’m like, ‘What do you mean, it’s worse?! What do you mean?!’” Breeds recalled.

Her comments illuminate just how much the character endured and why fans have remained invested in Ruby’s story long after her exit. Ruby’s past hardships make her potential return even more compelling, offering an opportunity for redemption and growth that could resonate deeply with viewers.

A New Chapter for Ruby

Breeds envisions a future for Ruby that aligns with her character’s inherent strength and empathy. “My hope would be that Ruby turned it around and became a child psychologist and helps girls,” she explained. The show has always centered on wayward youth finding solace, guidance, and support within the Summer Bay community, and Breeds believes Ruby would be a natural fit to continue that legacy in a meaningful way.

“She would be helping the next generation, the kids who are going through what she went through,” Breeds said. The idea of Ruby returning not just as a character in crisis but as someone who actively contributes to the wellbeing of others adds a new dimension to her story and presents exciting possibilities for future drama.

This narrative would also allow the writers to explore new dynamics with existing characters. Ruby’s return could spark reunions, unresolved tensions, and fresh romance plots, all while showcasing her growth and resilience. Whether she reconnects with old friends, mentors troubled youth, or even encounters the River Boys once again, the possibilities are both dramatic and deeply satisfying for fans.

Breeds’ Connection to Home and Away

Even after a decade away, Breeds’ connection to Home and Away remains strong. She frequently reflects on her time in Summer Bay with fondness, noting the camaraderie, intense filming schedule, and the unique challenges of working on a long-running soap. Her willingness to return—even hypothetically—demonstrates the enduring bond she has with both the show and its audience.

“I loved that show,” she reiterated. “It’s just a matter of timing, but I would love to work in Sydney again.” Her words highlight a common theme among former cast members: the pull of Summer Bay is strong, and the show continues to hold a special place in their hearts.

The Fan Perspective

For fans, the prospect of Ruby’s return is tantalizing. Ruby Buckton’s journey was one of the most memorable in recent Home and Away history, and seeing her back on-screen would not only provide closure for unfinished storylines but also offer fresh drama and excitement. Fans have long debated what became of Ruby, and Breeds’ hints of a possible return keep the speculation alive.

The idea of vindicating Ruby and exploring her life as a mature, empathetic figure helping others resonates with audiences who have followed her journey from troubled teen to a woman with potential to shape the lives of others. Her return could bridge past and present, offering nostalgic moments for longtime viewers while introducing the character to a new generation.

Looking Ahead

While there is no confirmed return on the horizon, Breeds’ comments leave the door open for future storylines. The combination of fan demand, Breeds’ willingness, and the narrative potential makes Ruby Buckton a character whose comeback could be both meaningful and dramatic. Whether she steps back into Summer Bay to confront past demons, reconnect with old allies, or forge a new path helping troubled youth, her presence would undoubtedly shake up the Bay once again.

Rebecca Breeds’ reflection on Ruby Buckton demonstrates the enduring impact of both the character and the series. Home and Away has always thrived on compelling drama, intricate relationships, and memorable characters, and Ruby remains a prime example of why the show continues to captivate audiences. The scrapped storyline may have been a missed opportunity, but fans can remain hopeful—Summer Bay may not have seen the last of Ruby Buckton.

With Breeds hinting that she “would love to work in Sydney again” and calling for justice for her character, the possibility of a return remains alive in the hearts of fans. And if Ruby does come back, the show is poised to explore new depths of drama, redemption, and personal growth, giving audiences a reason to tune in and experience the next chapter of her journey.