Home and Away fans are bracing for an emotional shock as heartbreaking news emerges about a major absence set to rock Summer Bay in 2026. Beloved veteran actor Shane Withington,

who has portrayed Alf Stewart for decades, is reportedly unable to take part in next year’s episodes due to a devastating illness storyline that will dramatically alter the fabric of the show.

According to insiders close to production, the upcoming arc will see Alf confronted with a serious and life-changing disease, one that forces him to step away from his familiar routines,

his community, and the surf club life that has defined him for generations of viewers. While Home and Away has never shied away from tackling difficult subjects, this storyline is said to be one of the most emotionally confronting the series has ever attempted.

For long-time fans, Alf Stewart isn’t just a character — he’s the heart of Summer Bay. His gruff wisdom, sharp one-liners, and fierce loyalty have anchored the show through decades of cast changes, disasters, and love stories. The thought of Alf being sidelined, even temporarily, has already sparked waves of sadness and disbelief among viewers.

The storyline reportedly unfolds quietly at first. Alf begins experiencing subtle symptoms — moments of confusion, unexplained weakness, and an uncharacteristic loss of control. At first, he brushes them off, refusing to admit vulnerability. But as the signs worsen, it becomes impossible to ignore the truth. A medical diagnosis follows, leaving Alf — and those closest to him — stunned.

What makes this arc particularly heartbreaking is the emotional fallout it creates. Friends and family are forced to face the unthinkable: a future where Alf may no longer be the immovable presence they rely on. Scenes are said to focus heavily on Alf’s internal struggle — his anger, fear, and quiet grief as he grapples with losing independence and identity.

Sources suggest Shane Withington delivers a deeply restrained and powerful performance, stripping Alf back to his most human core. Rather than dramatic outbursts, the storyline leans into silence, unresolved conversations, and moments where Alf’s trademark toughness cracks just enough to reveal the pain underneath.

Behind the scenes, the decision to scale back Alf’s involvement in 2026 episodes was reportedly made with great care. Producers wanted to honour both the character’s legacy and the emotional investment audiences have built over decades. Rather than a sudden exit, the show aims to tell a story that feels truthful, respectful, and painfully real.

Fans have already taken to social media to express heartbreak, with many calling the news “devastating” and “the end of an era.” Some viewers have grown up with Alf on their screens and can’t imagine Summer Bay without him holding court at the bait shop or offering blunt advice over a cuppa.

Importantly, this storyline is fictional and crafted for dramatic purposes, but its emotional impact is undeniable. By placing one of its most iconic characters in such a vulnerable position, Home and Away once again proves its willingness to explore ageing, illness, and loss with honesty.

As 2026 approaches, one thing is certain: Summer Bay will never feel quite the same. Whether this marks a temporary goodbye or a permanent turning point, Alf Stewart’s journey is set to leave audiences heartbroken — and deeply grateful for a character who has meant so much for so long.