Fans of Home and Away are bracing for one of the most thrilling comebacks in the show’s history. Stephen Peacocke, who famously portrayed the charismatic River Boys leader Darryl “Brax” Braxton,

and Bonnie Sveen, beloved for her role as Erica “Ricky” Sharpe, are set to reprise their iconic roles in a landmark special episode. This marks their first return to Summer Bay since leaving the series in 2016,

and the anticipation among fans is nothing short of electric. The news comes as part of a special collaboration with Tourism Western Australia, promising a cinematic backdrop that

showcases the rugged beauty of the region while delivering the drama and emotion that Home and Away fans have come to expect. For audiences, this is more than just a reunion—it’s a chance to catch up with one of the soap’s most legendary couples and see how life has shaped them a decade after their dramatic departure.

A Decade Away from Summer Bay

Brax and Ricky’s story captured hearts during their original run, as the River Boys’ leader brought both danger and deep loyalty to Summer Bay. Brax’s magnetic presence, paired with Ricky’s unwavering love, created one of the show’s most enduring and beloved romances. Fans will remember the heart-stopping twists that defined their time on the soap, from Brax’s complicated family dynamics to their eventual escape from the pressures of the Bay.

Their exit in 2016 was as dramatic as their tenure on the show. Brax staged his own death to evade imprisonment, riding off into the horizon with Ricky and their young son Casey—a touching homage to Brax’s late younger brother. This exit left fans both heartbroken and exhilarated, setting the stage for speculation about the couple’s fate ever since.

Now, after ten years, the couple is returning, promising fans an emotional journey that explores how their lives have evolved beyond Summer Bay’s shores.

The Official Announcement

According to Channel 5 and Home and Away producers, the return of Brax and Ricky will be revealed in a special one-off episode set against the stunning landscapes of Western Australia. “In partnership with Tourism Western Australia, a landmark Home and Away event will reveal where life has taken Brax and Ricky since 2016,” the statement reads. “Audiences can expect high-stakes drama, emotional payoffs, and breathtaking locations that enhance the storytelling experience.”

Stephen Peacocke shared his excitement about reprising Brax: “I’ll always be grateful to Home and Away for being the launchpad of my career. Revisiting Brax felt like a fun opportunity, and one I know the audience will really enjoy. Filming in the spectacular outback of Western Australia is the icing on the cake, and we even get to welcome one lucky UK fan and their guest onto set with us. It’s going to be unforgettable.”

Bonnie Sveen echoed the sentiment, expressing her delight at stepping back into Ricky’s shoes: “Bringing Ricky back wasn’t something I ever expected, so I’m beyond thrilled to reunite with Steve and our old friends at Home and Away. Exploring where Ricky and Brax are now, ten years on, will make for a very special and compelling storyline, and I can’t wait for our WA filming adventure.”

High Drama Against a Stunning Backdrop

The decision to shoot across multiple Western Australian locations is a deliberate one. Producers aim to capture both the drama and the breathtaking scenery that has become synonymous with cinematic storytelling. The rugged landscapes, vast skies, and coastal vistas will serve as the perfect backdrop for the emotional rollercoaster awaiting viewers.

The story promises to blend nostalgia with fresh twists. Fans will see how Brax and Ricky have navigated life as parents, partners, and survivors of the challenges that life away from Summer Bay has thrown their way. The combination of their personal growth, enduring love, and the dramatic flair that defines Home and Away ensures that this comeback will be as emotionally engaging as it is visually stunning.

Fan Reactions

Social media has exploded with excitement over the announcement. Fans have flooded platforms with reactions, underscoring just how iconic Brax and Ricky remain in the Home and Away universe.

One fan tweeted: “Omg Brax and Ricky coming back, I’m so happy!” Another shared: “OMG SO EXCITED! I love Brax and Ricky.” Enthusiasm only grew as more viewers shared their delight: “WHAT? Home and Away is BACK, this is what we have wanted for so long! BRAX to return. Yes, it’s next year, but it’s something to look forward to. I am SO SO SO EXCITED, OH BRAX HOW WE HAVE MISSED YOU.”

Even longtime fans who had resigned themselves to the couple’s permanent absence expressed pure joy. Comments like “OMG WASN’T EXPECTING THIS ONE. So damn happy, they were my OG OTP,” demonstrate the enduring impact of Brax and Ricky on the show’s devoted audience.

The Legacy of Brax and Ricky

The significance of this return cannot be overstated. Brax and Ricky were more than just characters—they were symbols of love, resilience, and the complex dynamics of family and loyalty. Brax’s leadership of the River Boys, combined with his protective nature, created a narrative rich in tension, loyalty, and raw emotion. Ricky’s unwavering support and moral compass provided a grounding force, balancing the chaos around them.

Their storylines often explored themes that resonate beyond the soap, including redemption, loyalty, and the challenges of maintaining love amid external pressures. This one-off episode will allow audiences to reconnect with those themes while exploring how the characters have matured and evolved since their last appearance.

Production Details and Broadcasting

Filming is set to begin in October, with crews traveling across multiple Western Australian locations to capture the essence of the story. Channel 5 has confirmed that the special episodes will broadcast in 2026, giving fans a much-anticipated glimpse into the couple’s new chapter.

The collaboration with Tourism Western Australia is strategic, combining high-stakes storytelling with breathtaking scenery to create a visual and emotional feast for viewers. By situating the characters in such a striking environment, producers ensure that the return of Brax and Ricky is not only a nostalgic moment but also a cinematic event in its own right.

A Welcome Return for Longtime Fans

For many, Brax and Ricky’s return represents a chance to relive the intensity, passion, and emotional depth that made them household names. The couple’s enduring popularity is a testament to the show’s ability to create characters that resonate with audiences on multiple levels.

Whether it’s the drama of the River Boys, the tender moments between Brax and Ricky, or the ongoing challenges they face as a family, fans can expect a storyline that delivers all the emotional highs and lows that define Home and Away. The anticipation is further heightened by the promise of exclusive fan experiences on set, bridging the gap between television and audience engagement in an unprecedented way.

Conclusion: The Return of Legends

As the countdown to filming begins, one thing is certain: the return of Brax and Ricky is a landmark moment for Home and Away. Their story is one of enduring love, resilience, and the ability to captivate audiences even after years away from the screen.

With high-stakes drama, stunning locations, and the reunion of two of the soap’s most iconic characters, fans are guaranteed a television event to remember. Summer Bay may have changed over the years, but Brax and Ricky’s love story continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers.

Stay tuned for updates, spoilers, and behind-the-scenes insights as Stephen Peacocke and Bonnie Sveen bring Brax and Ricky back to the screen, reminding us why Home and Away remains one of television’s most beloved dramas.