There really is no place like home. Home And Away, that is!
The drama never lets up in Summer Bay – and 2018 promises to be its biggest year yet. For starters, the iconic Aussie drama celebrates a whopping three decades on air.
We pick things up after last year’s devastating season finale in which Kat Chapman (Pia Miller) and her unborn baby were killed in a horrific car crash.
While it’s undoubtedly a sad time, the small town must – and will – bounce back from the tragedy.
The devastating aftermath of the crash.
In 2018, a glimmer of hope appears in the form of… the River Boys! They’re back in the bay and we’re sure they’re going to cause trouble.
There’s also some possible health concerns for beloved Summer Bay veteran Alf (Ray Meagher). Strewth!
Here’s what else you can expect this year…
Mystery man
After the shocking events of the 2017 finale, there’s more misery ahead for Robbo (Jake Ryan). He is now in hiding following the tragic car crash, unaware the woman he loves is dead. Will he go on the run or return to face his fate?
Jake tells TV WEEK we can expect to see Robbo once again up to his armpits in trouble.
“It’s a wild road ahead for Robbo,” the 34-year-old says. “But he has some stamina and always finds his way out of any situation.
“What we have been filming is action-packed, and I just love those kinds of storylines.”
Family dramas
Justin Morgan (James Stewart) has had his heart broken more than once since he hit town. And, sadly, this year will be no different.
“Fans can expect to see love gained and love lost this year,” James, 42, reveals.
The actor also hinted at a “really difficult storyline” involving Ava, Justin’s daughter from a previous relationship.
Over at the Astoni house, Ziggy (Sophie Dillman) has reunited with Brody (Jackson Heywood) and feels better than ever.
“She’s on the cusp of becoming a woman,” Sophie, 25, says. “She’s been unsure of herself and has felt very unworthy of anyone’s love, but she really steps up to the plate this year.”
However, there’s anguish ahead for Sophie’s family as her mum, Maggie (Kestie Morassi), faces the fight of her life.
Maggie was last seen on the beach, doubled over in pain. What’s wrong with her?
Frosty reception
We saw her ever so briefly in the season finale, escaping the crash that killed Kat. In 2018, we really get to see Sam Frost’s acting chops as new character Jasmine. Much has been made of The Bachelorette Australia star’s foray into the Bay.
What we know so far is Sam won’t be short of potential suitors. We hear the 28-year-old’s alter ego gets flirty with a hunky guy, played by Tim Franklin.
If past form is anything to go by, Sam will be winning over as many hearts as she breaks.
Meanwhile, will Ash (George Mason) get revenge on Robbo for his part in the deaths of Kat and Ash’s unborn child?
Love and loss
Home And Away loves a wedding. This year, we’re hoping Olivia (Raechelle Banno) and former bad boy Hunter (Scott Lee) will reunite, but we’re not so sure. The young couple’s relationship looked to have hit the skids when Olivia ended up in the arms – and bed – of fashionista Axel (Matthew Pearce).
“That came to a head in the finale and we’ll now see the aftermath,” Scott, 24, explains.
As for a Summer Bay wedding, Jackson Heywood (Brody) got fans talking when he posted a photo to Instagram of what appeared to be a wedding set-up. He wrote “No words. #onsettoday” Could Ziggy and Brody tie the knot this year/
You can find content like this and so much more TV goodness in our 2018 TV preview special, on sale now
