In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fan community, Ada Nicodemou, the actress synonymous with Summer Bay’s Leah Patterson-Baker, has announced she will be leaving

the iconic Australian soap after an astounding 25-year tenure. The news has left viewers reeling, marking what many are calling the end of an era for one of television’s most enduring characters.

A Quarter-Century in Summer Bay

Ada Nicodemou’s journey with Home and Away began in 2000 when she first stepped into the shoes of Leah Patterson-Baker, a character who would go on to become one of the show’s most central figures. Over the course of 25 years, Leah has navigated some of the most dramatic, heartfelt, and unforgettable storylines in the series’ history. From whirlwind romances and family turmoil to personal tragedies and triumphs, Leah has grown alongside the show and its audience, becoming a touchstone of emotional storytelling in Australian television.

“It’s incredibly emotional for me to say goodbye,” Ada confessed. “Summer Bay has been my home for so long, and leaving is not a decision I take lightly. I will cherish every moment, every storyline, and every fan who has supported me along the way.”

For generations of viewers, Leah Patterson-Baker has been more than just a character; she has been a daily companion, a friend, and an embodiment of resilience, love, and loyalty. Ada’s portrayal has left an indelible mark on the show, earning her a place not only in the hearts of fans but also in the history of Australian television.

Leah Patterson-Baker: A Legacy of Love, Loss, and Resilience

Throughout her 25-year run, Leah’s character has been at the center of some of Home and Away’s most memorable moments. She has faced heartbreak, loss, and life-changing challenges, often serving as the moral compass and emotional anchor for the residents of Summer Bay. Ada’s nuanced performance brought depth and authenticity to Leah, making her struggles and triumphs resonate with audiences across generations.

From her on-screen romances to her unwavering support of friends and family, Leah’s journey has been one of growth, resilience, and unwavering strength. Viewers have celebrated her joys, mourned her losses, and cheered her triumphs, forging a connection that transcends the screen. Ada’s contribution to the show has not only shaped Leah but has also helped define the identity of Home and Away itself.

“Playing Leah has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Ada shared. “I’m so proud of the stories we’ve told and the impact they’ve had on fans. This character has been a part of my life for a quarter of a century, and it’s been an honor to bring her to life every day.”

Fans React: Nostalgia and Heartbreak

The announcement of Ada’s departure has sparked an outpouring of emotion across social media platforms. Fans have flooded Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook with tributes, memories, and heartfelt messages of gratitude.

“25 years! Leah will always be a part of our lives. Thank you, Ada!” one fan wrote, reflecting the enduring connection audiences feel with the character.

“I can’t imagine Summer Bay without Leah. This is heartbreaking,” another commented, encapsulating the sentiment of countless viewers.

For many fans, Ada’s exit represents more than just a casting change—it symbolizes the end of a chapter in their own lives. Those who have grown up watching Leah navigate the highs and lows of Summer Bay now face the bittersweet reality of saying goodbye to a character who has been a constant presence for decades.

The news has also sparked a wave of nostalgia, with fans revisiting Leah’s most iconic storylines—from her dramatic romances to her family-centered plots, and her moments of courage in the face of adversity. Each storyline served as a testament to Ada’s talent and to the emotional resonance of her character.

The Emotional Weight of Saying Goodbye

For Ada Nicodemou, leaving Home and Away is not simply a professional decision; it’s deeply personal. The show has been a central part of her life for 25 years, shaping not only her career but also her identity. Throughout her tenure, Ada has forged lifelong relationships with her castmates, who have become an extended family, and has developed a deep bond with the show’s loyal audience.

“It’s impossible to put into words what this journey has meant to me,” Ada admitted. “Every script, every scene, every fan encounter has shaped me. Leah Patterson-Baker will always be a part of me, and Summer Bay will always hold a special place in my heart.”

The challenge of stepping away from such a long-standing role is compounded by the knowledge that Leah’s story has touched countless lives. For Ada, leaving Summer Bay is not just the end of a job—it’s the conclusion of a defining chapter in her life.

What’s Next for Ada Nicodemou?

While Leah Patterson-Baker’s story may be coming to a close, Ada Nicodemou’s career is far from finished. The actress has hinted at exciting opportunities beyond Summer Bay, suggesting that this farewell is not an end but a beginning.

“This isn’t goodbye forever—it’s the start of a new chapter,” Ada shared. “I’m excited to explore new projects, challenge myself creatively, and continue telling stories that matter to me.”

Fans can take comfort in knowing that while Leah may be leaving Summer Bay, Ada’s influence, presence, and talent will continue to shape Australian entertainment in new and exciting ways.

A Legacy That Will Endure

Leah Patterson-Baker’s departure marks the conclusion of a remarkable era in Home and Away’s history. Over 25 years, Ada Nicodemou has not only brought a beloved character to life but has also helped shape the identity of the show itself. Her portrayal has been a beacon of authenticity, warmth, and emotional depth, making Leah Patterson-Baker a character that will live on in the hearts of fans for years to come.

For the residents of Summer Bay—and the millions of viewers who have followed the show through its many seasons—Ada’s exit will be profoundly felt. Yet, the impact of her performance and the stories she helped tell will remain an enduring part of Australian television history.

As audiences prepare to bid farewell to Leah Patterson-Baker, they do so with gratitude, admiration, and the bittersweet recognition that some characters are more than just fictional creations—they become family, friends, and companions, leaving a legacy that lasts far beyond the screen.

Final Thoughts

Ada Nicodemou’s departure from Home and Away is a moment of reflection, celebration, and, inevitably, sadness. Leah Patterson-Baker has been at the heart of Summer Bay for a quarter of a century, guiding viewers through love, loss, and life’s countless challenges. Ada’s remarkable performance has made her one of the most cherished figures in the show’s history, and her exit signals the end of an era that fans will remember forever.

Though the countdown begins to her final episodes, Leah’s legacy—and Ada’s impact on Australian television—will endure, reminding viewers that great storytelling is about connection, emotion, and the ability to touch lives across generations. Summer Bay may say goodbye, but the mark Leah Patterson-Baker leaves behind will never fade.