For decades, Home and Away has been a launchpad for some of Australia’s brightest stars. From household names like Chris Hemsworth and Isla Fisher to rising talents such

as Samaru Weaving and Tamine Cersok, the long-running Home and Away has cultivated generations of actors, offering them the foundational experience that would eventually propel them

to Hollywood success. Since its debut in 1988, the show has been both a training ground and a stage where seasoned performers guide newcomers, blending mentorship with storytelling magic.

This legacy of nurturing young talent continues, and the latest example comes in the form of 15-year-old actor and model Nathan Murray, who is stepping into the world of Summer Bay for the first time. Already turning heads internationally with appearances in commercials for major brands like Superbell and a role in American Horror Story, Nathan’s journey into the soap’s universe is already highly anticipated. This week marks his debut as Cohen, a vulnerable teen who finds himself under the foster care of Rue Stewart after a chaotic life living with his mother, Samantha Heidi May, in a makeshift tent collapses when she is arrested for theft.

Nathan’s first day on set was understandably a whirlwind. “I was filled with nerves,” Nathan recalls in an exclusive interview with Yahoo Lifestyle. “But everyone on the cast and crew quickly took me under their wings. The directors, the behind-the-scenes team, and the actors were all incredibly welcoming. If I got a line wrong, someone was there to help. If something went wrong, they were immediately supportive. It created a really positive environment.”

Among those who left a lasting impression on Nathan is the beloved Georgie Parker, a Summer Bay icon whose talent and experience have been instrumental in guiding newcomers for years. Nathan describes their first interaction as immediately comfortable and inspiring. “She was very funny and kind,” he says. “Filming with her was amazing. She was always in a good mood, always motivating me, and helping me with my acting. I learned so much just being on set with her. It was an incredible experience.”

But Georgie wasn’t the only veteran who helped Nathan settle into the world of Summer Bay. The show’s longest-serving cast member, Ray Meagher, also became a crucial mentor during Nathan’s early filming days. “Ray is such a kind and down-to-earth guy,” Nathan shares. “Whenever I messed up a line or needed help, he was always there. That support made a huge difference and helped me grow as an actor very quickly.”

The guidance Nathan received went beyond technical advice. Both Georgie and Ray shared wisdom on managing the nerves that often accompany a first major role. “On my first day, I was freaking out,” Nathan admits. “Then they told me something that really stuck with me: ‘You can change the nervousness into excitement because they’re very interchangeable feelings.’ I started channeling that energy into my performance, putting it into my lines, and suddenly, I felt more confident and connected to the character. By the end of the day, the nerves had started to fade, and I felt like I could really thrive on set.”

Nathan’s character Cohen faces complex emotional arcs, and the guidance from his mentors helped him navigate these scenes with authenticity. The storyline, which explores themes of abandonment, resilience, and finding stability in a challenging world, requires sensitivity and emotional depth. “Cohen’s journey is really intense,” Nathan explains. “Having Georgie and Ray there to guide me made it possible to bring honesty and realism to the role. I felt supported every step of the way, and that allowed me to explore the character fully.”

Fans of the show are already buzzing about Nathan’s arrival, particularly excited to see him interact with Summer Bay’s established characters. The dynamic between Cohen and Rue Stewart promises to be compelling, showcasing a young character learning to trust and adapt in a world that has been far from stable. Nathan’s portrayal is set to bring a fresh perspective to the show, blending youthful vulnerability with a growing sense of resilience.

Behind the scenes, Nathan has found the atmosphere on set to be collaborative and encouraging. “Everyone genuinely wants to help each other succeed,” he remarks. “There’s no pressure to be perfect; it’s about learning, growing, and creating great scenes together. That’s something really special about Home and Away. You don’t just work on a show; you become part of a community.”

For Nathan, the experience has already had a profound impact on both his career and personal development. “Working with people like Georgie and Ray has taught me so much about professionalism, kindness, and perseverance,” he says. “Their advice and support will stay with me forever. I feel incredibly lucky to have had this opportunity, and I’m excited to continue exploring Cohen’s story.”

Georgie Parker, known for her warm mentorship and consistent dedication to the craft, continues to play a pivotal role in welcoming new talent to Summer Bay. Ray Meagher’s decades-long commitment to the show has similarly made him a pillar for guidance and support. Together, they exemplify the nurturing environment that has kept Home and Away a beloved institution for nearly four decades.

Nathan’s debut is not just a personal milestone; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of mentorship on Home and Away. From veteran actors guiding the next generation to storylines that tackle real-world issues with sensitivity and nuance, the soap continues to be both a launchpad and a platform for authentic storytelling.

As Cohen navigates life in foster care and begins to interact with Summer Bay’s iconic residents, viewers will witness a blend of drama, emotion, and authenticity that defines the series. Nathan’s performance, shaped by the guidance of Georgie Parker and Ray Meagher, promises to bring depth, empathy, and relatability to this new chapter.

In reflecting on his journey, Nathan emphasizes the importance of support, mentorship, and embracing challenges. “This role has been life-changing,” he concludes. “I’ve learned so much from the cast and crew. I’ve learned to turn nerves into excitement, to trust my instincts, and to work collaboratively. Home and Away has given me an amazing opportunity, and I can’t wait for audiences to see Cohen’s story unfold.”

With Nathan Murray stepping into Summer Bay, the legacy of Home and Away continues to thrive—bridging generations of actors, inspiring new talent, and delivering heartfelt storytelling that resonates with fans across Australia and around the world.