Just when Home and Away viewers thought they were finally coming to terms with Ziggy Astoni’s emotional departure, a fresh bombshell has landed —

and it’s one no one saw coming. Sophie Dillman, the actress who brought Ziggy to life with grit, warmth, and undeniable heart, has officially revealed her next career move,

and it marks a dramatic new chapter far removed from the sands of Summer Bay.

For years, Dillman was synonymous with Ziggy Astoni — the tough, loyal mechanic whose resilience and emotional depth made her one of the show’s most beloved modern characters. Ziggy’s exit left fans reeling, with many admitting the show hasn’t felt quite the same since her goodbye. Now, Dillman has confirmed she’s stepping into a strikingly different role, signalling that her post-Home and Away era is not about playing it safe.

According to industry insiders, Dillman has secured a leading role in an upcoming drama project that pushes her far beyond the familiar rhythms of soap storytelling. Described as “raw,” “emotionally demanding,” and “career-defining,” the new role reportedly explores darker themes and complex personal struggles — a sharp contrast to Ziggy’s grounded, community-driven life in Summer Bay.

The announcement has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fandom. Many viewers had quietly hoped Dillman might one day return to the Bay, even for a brief guest stint. Instead, this reveal suggests the actress is firmly focused on reinvention rather than nostalgia.

Behind the scenes, those close to the production say Dillman was ready for change long before Ziggy’s exit aired. “Sophie didn’t want to be boxed in,” a source shared. “She loved Ziggy, but she also knew she had more to show. This new role lets her go places emotionally that Home and Away simply couldn’t.”

The timing of the announcement has only intensified the reaction. With Home and Away currently navigating major cast shifts and emotionally heavy storylines, Dillman’s career update feels like another symbolic closing of an era. Ziggy Astoni wasn’t just a character — she represented strength, loyalty, and growth for an entire generation of viewers.

Fans have flooded social media with mixed emotions. While many expressed pride and excitement for Dillman’s next step, others admitted the news made Ziggy’s absence feel more permanent than ever. “It’s bittersweet,” one longtime viewer wrote. “I’m happy for Sophie, but it really feels like Ziggy’s chapter is closed for good.”

Critics, however, are already predicting big things. Dillman’s performances on Home and Away often hinted at deeper dramatic potential, and industry watchers believe this new role could finally put her range fully on display — possibly opening doors to international projects and award recognition.

As Sophie Dillman moves forward, one thing is certain: she is not looking back. Her bold new role signals ambition, confidence, and a willingness to take risks — the very qualities that made Ziggy Astoni unforgettable in the first place.

For fans still missing Ziggy, the loss stings. But for those watching Sophie Dillman’s career unfold, the future has never looked more intense — or more exciting.