After nearly four decades at the heart of Australia’s most beloved coastal drama, Ray Meagher has officially confirmed his departure from Home and Away,

bringing an extraordinary television era to a close. For millions of viewers around the world, this is more than an actor leaving a role — it is the end of

a cultural institution embodied by one unforgettable man: Alf Stewart.

Since 1988, when the series first introduced audiences to the fictional seaside town of Summer Bay, Alf has stood as its gruff guardian, moral compass, and fiercely loyal protector. With his unmistakable growl and immortal catchphrase — “Stone the flamin’ crows!” — Alf Stewart became woven into the fabric of Australian pop culture. Now, after 38 consecutive years on screen, Meagher is stepping away from the role that defined a generation.

The Bedrock of Summer Bay

Alf Stewart wasn’t simply a long-running character — he was the emotional anchor of the show. Through bushfires, boat explosions, kidnappings, weddings, funerals, and countless cups of coffee at the Diner, Alf remained constant. He was the man who offered stern advice when it was needed and quiet comfort when words failed.

Generations of characters passed through Summer Bay under Alf’s watchful eye. He mentored troubled teens, clashed with authority figures, and fiercely defended his family. Beneath the bluster and the bark was a heart of gold — a portrayal that gave the series much of its soul.

For many viewers who grew up alongside the show, Alf wasn’t fiction. He was a weekly presence in their homes — steady, dependable, and deeply human.

A Record-Breaking Legacy

Ray Meagher’s tenure on Home and Away is historic. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-serving actor in an Australian drama series, Meagher devoted more than half his life to bringing Alf Stewart to life. Few performers in global television history can claim such longevity in a single role.

Originally a rugby league player before turning to acting, Meagher infused Alf with authenticity drawn from lived experience. What could have been a stereotypical “grumpy local” evolved into one of television’s most nuanced characters — stubborn yet compassionate, flawed yet fundamentally decent.

Over the years, countless co-stars have credited Meagher for shaping their careers. A young Chris Hemsworth once shared scenes with him before becoming a Hollywood star, while Kate Ritchie grew up on screen as Alf’s granddaughter Sally. Behind the scenes, Meagher was widely regarded as the show’s elder statesman — steady, professional, and generous with advice.

Why Now?

At 81, Meagher’s decision is said to stem from a desire to explore new creative avenues and embrace a different pace of life. Industry insiders reveal he has long maintained a love for theatre, and this next chapter will reportedly see him returning to the stage — a medium he has always described as his first passion.

In past interviews, Meagher often expressed humble disbelief at his longevity on the show. He once joked that he expected someone to “tap him on the shoulder” and send him packing years ago. Instead, he became the enduring heartbeat of Summer Bay.

His departure is understood to be amicable and respectful — a celebration of a remarkable run rather than a dramatic behind-the-scenes upheaval.

How Will Alf Leave?

Speculation is already swirling over how producers will write out such an iconic character. Will Alf receive a heroic send-off worthy of his many acts of bravery? Over the years, he has survived heart attacks, storms at sea, and personal tragedy. A dramatic final act would certainly fit his legacy.

Alternatively, longtime fans are hoping for something quieter — perhaps Alf choosing peace over conflict, stepping away from the chaos of the Bay to spend his later years with Martha by the sea. A gentle farewell would honor the resilience and warmth that defined him.

Whatever direction the writers choose, the final scenes promise to be among the most emotional in the show’s history.

A Cultural Farewell

Alf Stewart’s departure is more than a storyline shift; it signals a generational change for Home and Away. Few characters have remained so central for so long. His presence linked the show’s modern storylines to its 1980s beginnings, grounding new faces in familiar tradition.

For viewers in Australia, the UK, and across Europe, Alf symbolized small-town values — loyalty, blunt honesty, and fierce protection of family. His catchphrase will forever echo through television history, a reminder of simpler times in Summer Bay.

As tributes pour in across social media, one sentiment is clear: Ray Meagher’s contribution transcends entertainment. He didn’t just play Alf Stewart — he was Alf Stewart for millions.

When his final episode airs, it will mark the end of an era rarely seen in modern television. But while Ray Meagher may be stepping away from Summer Bay, the legacy of Alf Stewart — tough, tender, unforgettable — will live on in every episode that follows.

And somewhere, in reruns across the world, that familiar voice will still thunder:

“Stone the flamin’ crows!”