In a heartbreaking revelation that has left Home and Away fans reeling, actor Nicholas Cartwright has shared how personal tragedy within his family has forced him to step away from acting —

at least for now. Known for his memorable role in Summer Bay, Nicholas has long been admired for his charisma and talent, but behind the scenes, he has been quietly battling grief that

has profoundly impacted his life and career. In an exclusive interview, Nicholas opened up about the devastating losses he has endured over the past year. Sources close to the actor describe

a period of unimaginable heartache, with the death of a close family member leaving him emotionally shattered. “It’s been the hardest year of my life,” Nicholas reportedly said. “Losing someone you love so deeply changes everything. Acting became impossible because I couldn’t focus, couldn’t perform, couldn’t be present in any scene.”

Fans of Home and Away have expressed shock and sympathy, flooding social media with messages of support. Many recall Nicholas’ captivating performances and are struggling to come to terms with the news that one of Summer Bay’s brightest stars is stepping away from the spotlight. “Nicholas brought so much life to our screens — we’re devastated to hear this,” one fan wrote. Another added, “Take all the time you need. Your health and family come first.”

Insiders reveal that Nicholas initially tried to continue filming, hoping that work would provide an outlet for his grief. Yet, despite his dedication and professionalism, the emotional toll proved too heavy. Castmates reportedly noticed a change in his demeanor on set, describing him as quieter and more withdrawn than usual. Close friends encouraged him to take a step back, prioritizing healing over career obligations.

Nicholas’ retirement, while heartbreaking for fans, also shines a light on the often-unseen pressures actors face. Balancing personal trauma with the demands of a high-profile role is never easy, and Nicholas’ decision underscores the importance of self-care in an industry that rarely pauses for grief. “It wasn’t a choice I wanted to make,” he admitted. “But I had to put my family and my mental health first. Acting will always be part of me, but right now, I need to heal.”

The actor’s candidness has earned him praise for his honesty and vulnerability. Many fans have applauded him for speaking openly about grief and the struggles that come with losing loved ones, noting that his transparency may help others facing similar challenges. Mental health experts have also weighed in, emphasizing the importance of allowing oneself time to grieve before returning to high-pressure environments.

While Nicholas has stepped away from acting for the time being, sources indicate that he remains hopeful about a future return once he has had the space to heal. Friends and family are standing firmly by his side, offering unwavering support as he navigates this painful chapter.

For now, Summer Bay and Home and Away viewers are left to reflect on the personal hardships behind the scenes that can affect even the most talented stars. Nicholas Cartwright’s story is a reminder that grief respects no schedule and that sometimes, stepping back is the bravest choice an actor can make — for themselves and for the loved ones they have lost.