Summer Bay is about to experience one of its most dramatic shake-ups in years, as Home and Away gears up for a whirlwind of emotional departures, shocking arrivals, and high-stakes storylines

that are set to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Over the past year, fans have already said farewell to beloved characters like Kirby and Rose, and most recently, Irene Roberts,

who left the Bay after an astonishing 34 years. But as the Bay bids goodbye to its stalwarts, a fresh wave of characters is preparing to make their mark, promising to inject new energy, secrets, and drama into the iconic soap.

Departures: Saying Farewell to Familiar Faces

Theo Theopulos’ Exit

Theo Theopulos first arrived in Summer Bay in September 2021, instantly becoming a central figure in the lives of his aunt Leah and her husband Justin. As the firstborn nephew of Leah and the son of her older brother Dmitri, Theo arrived in the Bay accompanied by the ever-controversial Cash, setting the stage for family drama that has captivated audiences for over four years.

Now, fans are speculating that Theo is preparing to leave the Bay. Actor Matt Evans has not been spotted filming at Palm Beach—the real-life home of Summer Bay—for several months. Observant fans have noted his absence, and Evans’ recent Instagram post debuting a new haircut has fueled speculation that his time on the show may be coming to an end.

Theo is currently in a relationship with Lacy, who is expected to remain in the Bay, leaving only two likely scenarios for his departure: a painful breakup or a dramatic on-screen exit that could potentially see his character killed off. This uncertainty has sent fans into a frenzy, eagerly awaiting confirmation of how the show will handle Theo’s story arc.

Dr. Brie Cameron’s Departure

Another fan favorite preparing to exit Summer Bay is Dr. Brie Cameron. Brie arrived in the Bay in August 2022 as a new doctor at Northern Districts Hospital, quickly entangling herself in the lives of the Bay’s residents. Her romance with Remy became a central plotline, but after discovering Remy’s infidelity with fellow musician Avalon, Brie ended the relationship for good.

Recent updates to the show’s opening credits, which now feature Brie alone rather than alongside Remy, have confirmed her impending departure. Actress Juliet Godwin has not been seen filming in Palm Beach for months, further fueling speculation. A now-deleted Instagram post from a crew member in July hinted at a farewell, suggesting fans can expect to see Brie’s exit before the end of the year, marking three years of memorable storylines coming to a close.

Arrivals: Fresh Faces Bring New Drama

Harper and Dana’s Mother

Summer Bay is also welcoming new characters, including the arrival of Harper and Dana’s long-estranged mother, Carrie Mat. Played by New Zealand actress Sarah Wiseman, Carrie’s appearance promises to bring emotional intensity to the Bay. The sisters have had a troubled upbringing, often hinting at challenges with their parents and difficult childhood experiences. Carrie’s arrival is expected to reignite family tensions, as she reconnects with Harper and Dana while navigating her own complicated past.

Steven Madson as Eddie Shepard

Adding to the excitement, actor Steven Madson has joined the cast as Eddie Shepard. While details about the character are still under wraps, Madson is reportedly involved in a high-stakes storyline linked to the season finale, rumored to feature a dramatic train accident. With Madson’s history in shows like Ms. Fischer’s Modern Murder Mysteries and Spartacus: House of Asher, fans can anticipate a compelling and dynamic addition to the Summer Bay ensemble.

Latch Miller: A Mysterious Newcomer

Former Neighbours actor Latch Miller, now going by Lucky Miller, is also set to make waves in Summer Bay. Miller’s arrival coincides with the filming of what insiders suggest will be a dramatic train crash storyline. Fans have already spotted Miller filming on the beaches of Palm Beach alongside Sophia Pennington, and speculation is rife about how his character will intertwine with existing residents. Miller previously starred as Richie Amble on Neighbours, and his casting adds a fresh and mysterious energy to the Bay.

Returns: Brax and Ricky

Fans of the Bay will be delighted to hear that Daryl Braxton and Ricky Sharp are making a comeback in 2026, portrayed by Steven Peacock and Bonnie. The return of these iconic characters promises nostalgia and drama, as their reunion coincides with a special blockbuster week filmed in Western Australia. Exploring where these characters are a decade later, the storyline promises high stakes, emotional depth, and stunning outback visuals that are sure to captivate audiences in both Australia and the UK.

Big Events: Drama Hits Summer Bay

Train Crash Speculation

Rumors of a major train crash in the season finale have fans on high alert. In July, cast members were spotted filming at the Lachland Valley Railway Heritage Center, with a large ensemble of characters reportedly involved. Residents of Cowra reported seeing familiar faces like Tristan Gory, Nicholas Cartwright, and Ethan Brown at the shoot. A now-deleted post from the Lachland Valley Railway group even showed several actors inside a train carriage, hinting that a catastrophic accident may be part of the storyline. With Theo’s exit looming, speculation is rife that he may be caught up in the disaster.

Cash and Eden’s Wedding

Adding a touch of romance amid the chaos, Cash and Eden are set to marry after years of heartbreak, breakups, and even amnesia-induced confusion. Filmed at Walong House in the Hunter Valley, their wedding will bring joy and celebration to Summer Bay viewers, serving as a bright counterpoint to the dramatic cliffhangers surrounding other characters.

A Mysterious Car Crash

Further teasing viewers, recent promotional footage suggests a potential car accident, showing a character resembling Leah rushing toward a stretcher covered in a white tarp. Could Theo be involved in this latest Summer Bay disaster? The suspense continues to build, as the show gears up for its 2025 finale, promising a season-ending explosion of drama, danger, and emotional revelations.

What’s Next for Summer Bay?

With departures, arrivals, dramatic rescues, and romantic milestones, Summer Bay is entering one of its most intense periods yet. Fans can expect emotional farewells, shocking exits, and the introduction of characters who may shake up the Bay’s social fabric for years to come. As always, the show continues to balance the excitement of new storylines with the nostalgia of beloved returning characters, offering something for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

The Home and Away season finale is scheduled to air in Australia in late November or early December, with UK audiences expected to see the episodes in early 2026. Between the dramatic wedding, the looming train crash, and the possible car accident, it seems Summer Bay will deliver a finale that viewers won’t soon forget.

As the Bay welcomes fresh faces, says farewell to cherished characters, and ramps up for potentially life-changing events, one thing is certain: Summer Bay remains the place where every sunrise brings new stories, secrets, and surprises.