Summer Bay is bracing itself for another emotional farewell, as fans of Home and Away have received the shocking news that Ryan Bone, who plays the charismatic yet troubled Sunny Baldwin,

will be leaving the beloved Australian soap in early 2026. Despite only joining the series in early 2025, Bone’s portrayal of Sunny quickly made a lasting impact, and his exit is expected

to send shockwaves through the Summer Bay community, both on-screen and among viewers. Sunny Baldwin’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Introduced as

Remy Carter’s charming best friend, Sunny initially seemed like a carefree, fun-loving character—a young man enjoying the freedoms of youth without a care in the world. But as fans soon discovered, there was far more to Sunny than meets the eye. Over the course of 2025, Sunny’s storyline evolved into one of the soap’s most intense and dramatic arcs, marked by entanglement with the notorious River Boys, escalating conflicts with Theo Pulos, and increasingly dangerous situations that tested his resilience and moral compass.

The drama reached a harrowing peak with a severe car accident that left Sunny seriously injured. Behind-the-scenes sources reveal that Ryan Bone filmed several emotionally charged scenes showing Sunny in a wheelchair, hinting at a challenging recovery journey and raising the stakes for both the character and the show’s central storylines. As if the accident wasn’t enough, speculation is mounting that Sunny may soon enter rehab or treatment for addiction—a twist that could mark the beginning of the character’s next major life chapter.

For many fans, the announcement of Bone’s departure is particularly shocking given the actor’s relatively brief time on the show. Joining Home and Away from the UK, where he impressed audiences with his role in the BBC series Everything I Know About Love, Bone quickly won over viewers with his magnetic screen presence, natural acting ability, and compelling portrayal of a young man navigating the chaos of love, loyalty, and personal struggle. His training at the renowned Howard Fine Acting Studio only further cemented his reputation as one of the most promising talents in film and television.

Despite the brevity of his tenure, Sunny Baldwin became a central figure in some of the show’s most gripping storylines. From thrilling confrontations with the River Boys to his complex friendship with Remy Carter, Sunny has been at the heart of multiple dramatic plotlines, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. His struggle with trauma, complicated relationships, and the consequences of his actions provided a rich, multifaceted character that fans quickly grew to love.

While neither Ryan Bone nor Channel 7 have released a full official statement regarding Sunny’s exit, the news has already sparked a flurry of reactions across social media. Fans expressed shock, disappointment, and admiration in equal measure, with many lamenting the fact that Sunny’s story—so compelling and layered—will be cut short. One viewer commented, “I can’t believe Sunny is leaving so soon. His story still has so much room to develop.” Another wrote, “Ryan Bone brought Summer Bay to life. It’s a shame he didn’t stay longer.”

Speculation is rife as to what the future holds for Sunny Baldwin in the series. Some fans believe that the character’s departure could mark a turning point in 2026, especially given the turmoil he has faced: the aftermath of his car accident, the increasingly complicated relationship with the River Boys, the risk of addiction, and a growing distance from Remy Carter. On forums and discussion boards, fans have offered multiple theories: some suggest Sunny will leave Summer Bay for rehab, signaling a hopeful yet uncertain chapter, while others fear a more tragic conclusion, consistent with the tumultuous events that have defined his short but intense time in the show.

In the absence of official details from Channel 7, insiders have shared some context regarding the show’s creative intentions. According to sources familiar with the production, Sunny Baldwin was designed as an “explosive character” whose presence would shake up Summer Bay during 2025 and 2026. His storylines have been deliberately structured to explore the tension between past mistakes and the desire for redemption—a narrative arc meant to resonate deeply with audiences and leave a lasting emotional impact.

The decision for Ryan Bone to leave Home and Away is described as a thoughtful combination of the actor’s personal plans and the show’s creative direction. While Sunny’s exit is undoubtedly dramatic, the production team has hinted that the writers have prepared an emotionally charged farewell that could leave viewers shocked and deeply invested. Importantly, the door is reportedly being left open for Sunny Baldwin to return in the future, ensuring that fans of the character retain hope for a possible comeback.

Beyond the dramatic storylines, Bone’s departure also highlights the challenges actors face in long-running series. Juggling a demanding shooting schedule, intense emotional scenes, and the expectations of a passionate fanbase can be taxing, and stepping away offers the opportunity for professional growth, personal development, and new artistic ventures. Bone’s decision reflects a combination of pursuing his career ambitions while leaving a legacy of memorable moments in Summer Bay.

Sunny Baldwin’s journey, though brief, will be remembered for its intensity, complexity, and emotional depth. From a playful, carefree character to a young man facing life-altering challenges, Sunny’s arc encapsulated many of the themes that make Home and Away a staple of Australian television: family, friendship, loyalty, and the high stakes of personal choice. His storylines tackled themes of trauma, recovery, and redemption, creating a deeply human character that resonated with viewers and drew critical acclaim.

Fans of the show are already speculating about what Sunny’s departure will mean for the remaining characters. Remy Carter’s storyline, in particular, could take a dramatic turn as he copes with the loss of his best friend and the unresolved tensions between them. The River Boys’ ongoing narrative may also be impacted, with Sunny’s exit potentially triggering new conflicts and alliances. Sunny’s journey, although coming to a temporary close, will undoubtedly leave ripples throughout Summer Bay for months to come.

As 2026 approaches, one thing is certain: Ryan Bone’s exit will mark a defining moment for Home and Away. Fans will remember Sunny Baldwin not just for his charm and energy but for the depth and nuance that Bone brought to every scene. While the character’s fate remains uncertain, the legacy of his time in Summer Bay is secure, and the door remains open for future stories, surprises, and perhaps, one day, a triumphant return.

For now, viewers can only watch, speculate, and prepare for what promises to be one of the most talked-about exits of early 2026. Sunny Baldwin may be leaving Summer Bay, but the impact of Ryan Bone’s performance will linger in the hearts of fans, ensuring that this short-lived but unforgettable character remains a vital part of the Home and Away saga.