As the iconic Australian soap opera Home and Away grace our screens again, the 2025 season promises to shake things up in Summer Bay by introducing two dynamic new characters.

The show's producers have sparked excitement among fans with the announcement that two actors will join the cast, teasing the drama that will follow their arrival.

These fresh faces are expected to bring new storylines and unexpected twists, keeping viewers on the edge. With the show's long-standing reputation for compelling plots, adding these characters will surely add even more intrigue to the beloved series.


Sophea Pennington, whose name was whispered through the grapevine last year as a potential addition to the show, is set to bring to life a character named Lacey, rumoured to be the latest River Girl.

With such a title, we can only speculate about the whirlwind of storylines she'll be involved in, but one thing is sure—drama is on the horizon.


Another actor joining the cast is Ryan Bown. His character remains shrouded in mystery.

Still, sharp viewers might have caught a glimpse of him in the season's gripping premiere, potentially playing an anaesthetist clashing with Dr Levi Fowler.

This brief encounter has already set tongues wagging about the impact his character will have on the Bay's residents.


Both actors are no strangers to the screen. Ryan Bown has a history with 'Home and Away', having appeared in an episode in 2018, and his resume includes roles in Everything I Know About Love, The Strangers: Chapter 1, Deep Water, and Lambs of God.

Sophea Pennington has showcased her talents in The Deb, Roast Night, and How To Become A Female Billionaire.

Their diverse acting backgrounds will bring fresh energy and depth to the beloved show.

The arrival of new characters is always a pivotal moment for long-running series like Home and Away, as it introduces new story arcs and allows for exploring contemporary themes and issues.

It's a chance for the show to reflect the evolving landscape of Australian culture and society.

The cast and fans alike have expressed their excitement over the new additions.


Tristan Gorey, who portrays Levi, playfully remarked on the show's knack for casting attractive talent, while Matt Evans (Theo) and former star Lincoln Lewis extended their warm welcomes.

Fans have chimed in with their reactions, ranging from admiration of the casting to calls for more diversity and representation on the show.

Some viewers have taken this opportunity to voice their desires for the show's direction, with pleas to reopen Summer Bay High and delve into the lives of its students and teachers.

‘Reopen Summer Bay High! Get the school kids & teachers' lives back in action!’ one fan said.

‘Can't wait. I would really love to see the high school and students back on the screen.’ another echoed.


Others have called for a cast that mirrors the diversity of modern Australia, moving beyond the casting trends of the past.

As Home and Away evolves, introducing Sophea Pennington and Ryan Bown is more than just a fresh storyline—a testament to the show's commitment to growth and adaptation.

Their presence heralds a new era for Summer Bay that promises to captivate audiences with compelling narratives and characters that resonate with the times.

So, as we welcome these new faces to our screens, let's embrace the change they represent and the stories they will tell.

After all, the ever-changing tapestry of characters keeps Home and Away close to our hearts.
What are your thoughts on the new characters and Home and Away's direction? Are there particular storylines or issues you hope to see explored with these new additions? Share your opinions in the comments below.