It’s been 35 years since Home and Away fans first met Pippa Ross, the warm-hearted foster mum who became the heart of Summer Bay. But these days, actress Debra Lawrance

looks completely unrecognisable from her time on the long-running Australian soap. Debra joined Home and Away in 1990, taking over the role of Pippa from Vanessa Downing and staying

on until 1998, before returning for several guest appearances, most recently in 2009. Her portrayal of Pippa — known for her kindness, patience, and unwavering support for the Bay’s lost teens —

made her one of the show’s most iconic characters.

Real-Life Love Story Born on Set

Debra’s connection to Home and Away runs deeper than her character’s storyline. On set, she met actor Dennis Coard, who played Pippa’s second husband, Michael Ross. The on-screen romance blossomed into real life, and the pair married in 1992. Together, they share two children and remain one of Australia’s most enduring acting couples.

Award-Winning Career Beyond the Bay

Since leaving Home and Away, Debra has continued to shine across television, film, and theatre. Her standout performance as Rose in the acclaimed comedy Please Like Me earned her both an AACTA Award and a Logie Award for Best Supporting Actress.

She also appeared in Neighbours in 2018, playing Liz Conway, Susan Kennedy’s sister — proving she could effortlessly cross soap borders while still charming audiences.

From Reality TV to the West End

In recent years, Debra has branched out into new territory. She competed in I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2023, winning the series and donating her $50,000 prize to Ovarian Cancer Australia.

Her theatre career has flourished too — she starred as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the stage production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, performing in both Melbourne and London from 2019 to 2024.

Life Beyond the Spotlight

Now in her early 60s, Debra divides her time between acting and her business teaching vocal communication and public speaking skills. She frequently shares glimpses of her life and advocacy work on Instagram, inspiring fans with her authenticity and resilience.

From her early days in Summer Bay to her award-winning career and real-life love story, Debra Lawrance remains one of Australia’s most treasured stars — proof that even decades later, some Home and Away favourites never truly leave our hearts.