Australian television fans are buzzing after former Home and Away star Sarah Roberts was spotted in Sydney appearing happier than ever — and holding hands

with a new man. The sighting has ignited fresh conversation among viewers who closely followed the actress’s very public breakup with fellow actor James Stewart.

Roberts, who played the fiercely independent Willow Harris on the long-running soap, seems to be stepping into a new chapter of her life after confirming her divorce

from Stewart earlier in 2024. The actress was recently photographed walking through Sydney while affectionately clasping hands with cinematographer Jake Yasu, an Australian-based steady-cam operator who occasionally works as a pilot. The pair’s relaxed body language and visible chemistry suggested a relationship that is both comfortable and serious.

For fans who watched Roberts’ love story unfold both on and off screen, the moment felt symbolic. Her relationship with Stewart once seemed like a fairytale born directly from the world of Summer Bay. The couple first met in 2017 after Roberts joined the cast of Home and Away. What began as a professional collaboration quickly blossomed into romance, and by 2018 the pair were engaged.

Their whirlwind love story continued with a lavish wedding in 2019 held at Luttrellstown Castle on the outskirts of Dublin, Ireland. The picturesque ceremony appeared to seal what many believed would be a lifelong partnership. But behind the glamorous photos and red-carpet appearances, Roberts later revealed that the relationship had slowly begun to change.

In an emotional interview with Stellar in April 2024, Roberts finally confirmed what many had speculated for months: the marriage had ended. Speaking candidly, she explained how difficult it had been to discuss the breakup publicly.

“I’ve been really afraid of talking about this because of what I felt was the stigma and shame around it,” she admitted. “But I just want to say that I’m divorced.”

The actress, now 40, reflected on how relationships can evolve over time — sometimes in ways couples never anticipate. She explained that while she still believes deeply in the idea of marriage, people can grow in different directions.

“My belief in marriage is that two people grow and learn from each other together,” she said. “But sometimes people just grow apart, and that’s okay.”

Since that announcement, Roberts has largely kept details of her personal life private. However, recent sightings suggest she has found happiness again. According to reports, Roberts and Yasu were seen attending an art exhibition together on June 13 before appearing once again days later at the prestigious Sydney Film Festival.

Observers say the pair looked relaxed and deeply engaged in conversation throughout the events, often standing close together and sharing quiet moments away from the crowds. The sightings quickly sparked speculation that the actress had found a new romance.

Roberts herself later hinted at the same during an appearance on the Something To Talk About podcast from Stellar. In the heartfelt interview, she spoke openly about rediscovering love — both for herself and for someone new.

“I love two people now,” she revealed. “I finally found a love for myself, which I realize now I didn’t have for a very long time.”

Her words resonated with many listeners who had watched her navigate heartbreak under the relentless glare of public attention. Roberts admitted that living through a divorce while being constantly discussed in the media had been one of the most painful experiences of her life.

“Dealing with divorce is hard enough,” she explained. “But dealing with it in the spotlight, and everything that came out in the media afterwards, absolutely ripped my heart into a million little pieces.”

For Roberts, rebuilding her life has been as much about personal growth as it has been about finding love again. She confessed that for years she blamed herself for remaining in a relationship that ultimately proved unhealthy.

“I stayed in something that wasn’t healthy for a long time,” she reflected. “But now I’ve found love for myself — and I’ve also fallen in love with a man. I’m so in love.”

Beyond her personal life, Roberts continues to expand her creative career. While many still associate her with her years on Home and Away, she has also embraced new projects outside traditional acting. One of her latest appearances is in the documentary Make It Look Real, a project exploring the complex role of intimacy coordinators in television and film productions.

The film examines how these professionals help actors safely and respectfully navigate intimate scenes — a topic that has become increasingly important within the entertainment industry.

Roberts has also explored another passion: music. When she’s not acting, she occasionally works as a DJ, performing at events and showcasing a creative side that fans rarely saw during her soap-opera years.

Meanwhile, Stewart’s life has also taken a new direction since the split. The actor — best known for his long-running role as Justin Morgan on Home and Away — confirmed in July 2024 that he had begun dating fellow cast member Ada Nicodemou. The relationship reportedly developed after months of quiet dating, surprising many fans who had watched their on-screen friendship for years.

Stewart also remains a devoted father to his daughter Scout, whom he shares with former actress Jessica Marais. The two first met while working together on the Australian drama Packed to the Rafters back in 2009.

Although both Roberts and Stewart have moved forward with their lives, their past relationship continues to fascinate fans who once viewed them as one of Australian television’s most beloved couples.

For Roberts, however, the focus is firmly on the future. Friends say she is embracing a renewed sense of confidence, creativity, and emotional freedom — something she openly credits to the difficult lessons of the past few years.

Being seen holding hands with Jake Yasu may seem like a simple moment, but for many observers it represents something much deeper: the closing of one chapter and the hopeful beginning of another.

After years of heartbreak played out under public scrutiny, Sarah Roberts appears ready to write a brand-new story — one defined not by loss, but by growth, resilience, and love.