Charlie Buckton

Charlie Buckton
Occupation	Police officer (fictional)
Years active	2008–2012, 2013
Known for	Character in Home and Away

Charlie Buckton is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Home and Away, broadcast on Channel Seven, and brought to life by actress Esther Anderson. Anderson was cast to enhance the show's "sex appeal" and subsequently moved to Sydney for filming purposes. Charlie made her first appearance on 6 June 2008. She is depicted as a "warm-hearted" individual with strong family values, though often perceived as "brash." Deeply dedicated to her profession, Charlie frequently overlooks the needs of her daughter, Ruby Buckton.

Her initial significant storyline centered on a same-sex relationship with Joey Collins, designed to increase viewership and explore Charlie’s vulnerable side. This narrative stirred controversy among conservative audiences, leading producers to remove certain scenes, which in turn disappointed the LGBT community. Charlie’s sexual orientation was never explicitly defined, reflecting a pattern of 'unnamed bisexuality' seen in Australian television dramas. The storyline concluded organically, with both Anderson and executive producer Cameron Welsh commending its authentic depiction and dismissing conservative criticism as outdated.

Subsequently, Charlie engaged in a tumultuous romance with Angelo Rosetta, emphasizing family dynamics and emotional intensity. Their relationship ended in 2011 after producers decided the storyline had reached its conclusion. Later developments saw Charlie developing romantic feelings for Darryl Braxton. A pivotal plot twist revealed Ruby was actually Charlie’s daughter—a storyline acclaimed for its emotional complexity but which irreparably strained their bond.

Critics offered mixed reactions to Charlie’s character; some highlighted her involvement in "scandalous" plots, while others applauded her dramatic impact and "sexy" persona. Anderson’s portrayal earned her several award nominations, including Most Popular Personality on Australian Television and Most Popular Actress at the Logie Awards. After Anderson's departure, Charlie exited the series on 24 January 2012 but returned on 17 June 2013 when Anderson reprised the role.

Casting

In May 2008, former model Esther Anderson was recruited by Home and Away to inject additional "sex appeal" into the series. A devoted fan of the show herself, Anderson expressed excitement upon securing the role of Charlie following an audition. She relocated from Melbourne to Sydney within four days to begin filming. Anderson emphasized that modelling served as a stepping stone toward her true passion—acting—and described landing this role as a dream come true.

Characterisation

When Charlie first appeared, Channel Seven described her as having unresolved issues with her father Ross's relationship with Morag, disapproving due to her mother’s recent passing. She was also portrayed as warm-hearted and family-focused but sometimes misunderstood because of a seemingly brash demeanor. Anderson characterized Charlie as strong-willed, sincere, and likable. Although deeply committed to her career and prioritizing care for Ruby over romantic pursuits, she longs for a partner who can provide balance in her serious life.

Relationship with Roman Harris

Charlie's initial romantic involvement was with Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), confirmed by Coleby during an interview with TV Week. Roman initially rebuffed Charlie's advances until she began dating Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz). Coleby described their first kiss as an awkward moment and explained their rocky beginnings stemmed from misunderstandings. He portrayed Charlie as "feisty," which Roman found appealing, clarifying that Roman was not simply rebounding after ending his relationship with Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon). The presence of Roman’s daughter, Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), complicated matters since Roman was already heavily involved in managing her needs. Charlie's high standards for herself and others frequently created tension within their relationship.

Roman eventually grew weary of Charlie's rigid perspective and ended their relationship. Coleby told TV Week that Roman tends to see "both sides of a story," contrasting with Charlie's more extreme viewpoints. He also suggested that Roman harbored lingering feelings for Martha. The involvement of Natalie Franklin (Adrienne Pickering) highlighted some of Charlie’s less endearing qualities, leading Roman to decide they were incompatible. Despite this, Coleby expressed hope for a future reconciliation but acknowledged they needed time apart.

Following their breakup, a hungover Charlie arrived at work where Annie Campbell (Charlotte Best) became trapped in a flooded storm drain. Charlie attempted to rescue Annie amidst rising waters. Anderson noted in Inside Soap that despite feeling disoriented, Charlie remained professional and focused. When a wave surged into the drain, it swept Charlie away, prompting Roman—her recent ex—to risk his life to save her. Filming these scenes required a specially constructed set equipped with water jets to mimic turbulent waves. Although Anderson could swim, she found shooting difficult due to the cold water temperatures but felt the challenge was worthwhile.

Relationship with Joey Collins

In 2009, the producers of Home and Away introduced a narrative arc where Charlie embarks on a romantic involvement with another woman, intending to enhance viewer interest. Over the course of five weeks, Charlie comes to understand that her friendship with Joey Collins (portrayed by Kate Bell) evolves into a deeper connection, highlighted by intimate kissing and dance sequences. Anderson was approached by the production team regarding this emotionally intense storyline and embraced the chance to explore Charlie’s more sensitive aspects. This plot represented Anderson’s first significant storyline on the series, necessitating longer working hours. To authentically convey the relationship, Anderson and Bell established mutual trust early on, with Anderson seeking insight from gay acquaintances to accurately represent her character’s emotions. The storyline posed a substantial challenge to Charlie’s sense of identity.

The narrative encountered opposition from religious and conservative groups who criticized its sexual themes directed at a younger audience. Within two weeks of broadcast, ratings declined by over 100,000 viewers, and Channel Seven received numerous complaints from parents worried about exposing children to same-sex relationships within a family-oriented program. In reaction, Channel Seven edited out a kissing scene between Charlie and Joey, removing "intimate images" from a passionate moment.

Despite objections from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, Channel Seven confirmed that the episode would be aired in its entirety but trimmed a "more lustful follow-up" scene to maintain storyline consistency. Bevan Lee, Seven’s head of creative drama, expressed frustration that discussions centered on minor edits rather than the overarching narrative. The British channel Five announced it would broadcast the kiss unedited during its airing of the episode, emphasizing that Channel Seven’s cuts were motivated solely by artistic considerations.

A spokeswoman for Channel Seven reported receiving fewer than 30 calls nationwide regarding the "lesbian kiss" episode, evenly divided between support and concern. Series producer Cameron Welsh defended the storyline as reflecting societal shifts pertinent to modern audiences. Anderson shared this perspective, underscoring the significance of portraying authentic life experiences through such storylines.

The conclusion of the plot faced criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates after Charlie was depicted engaging in sexual relations with Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry) while Joey departed Summer Bay alone. Anderson suggested that Hugo might have influenced Charlie’s transition back toward relationships with men. Some speculated that Home and Away was unlikely to sustain a same-sex relationship between Charlie and Joey long-term. Anderson later acknowledged concerns about being typecast as "the lesbian cop." Reflecting on the storyline in an interview with The Daily Telegraph, she noted it revealed Charlie’s vulnerable side and represented an important opportunity to showcase her acting abilities despite unexpected controversy.

Relationship with Angelo Rosetta

Charlie's romantic involvement with Angelo has been a focal point throughout her story arcs. Initially dating, they eventually separate after Angelo kills Jack Holden (Paul O'Brien). Charlie experiences jealousy when Angelo begins dating May Stone (Alin Sumarwata), revealing her complex emotions toward Angelo. The actress observed that their breakup likely would not have occurred if not for Jack's death. This storyline exposes a jealous facet of Charlie, who meddles in Angelo’s new relationship without intending harm to May. Despite their strong bond, Charlie's domineering tendencies strain their relationship, with Angelo unlikely to easily tolerate her assertiveness.

Anderson disclosed that Charlie and Angelo would encounter further difficulties in 2011, confirming ongoing turmoil in Charlie’s romantic life. The couple eventually parts ways as producers seek to challenge both characters and prevent repetitive plots by changing their dynamic.

Illegitimate daughter

A significant plot twist unveiled that Charlie's sister, Ruby Buckton (portrayed by Rebecca Breeds), is in fact her biological daughter, conceived after Charlie was assaulted by Grant Bledcoe (Clayton Watson) during her younger years. Both Anderson and Breeds found this storyline demanding and sought to depict it with sincerity. Breeds emphasized the emotional weight of the narrative and the importance of resonating with the audience. This revelation creates tension between the two characters, with Charlie attempting to mend their bond while Ruby looks for stability amidst the turmoil. Breeds described this as a pivotal journey for Ruby, while Anderson underscored the tragic yet empathetic circumstances surrounding Charlie. This arc was deemed more complex than previous ones, with many developments still to come.

Subsequently, Charlie finds it difficult to accept Ruby’s romantic involvement with Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes). Anderson explained that Charlie’s protective nature surfaces, especially since Ruby has recently ended her relationship with Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) and seems to be rushing into new ones. She also mentioned that Darryl Braxton (Steve Peacocke) provides Charlie with insightful parenting guidance. Nevertheless, Charlie’s strong personality results in ongoing clashes with Ruby.

Darryl Braxton

Darryl Braxton was introduced in February 2011, with early reports indicating his storyline would intersect with Charlie’s. When Charlie confronts Darryl about controlling his surf gang, Steve Peacocke described Darryl as being drawn to Charlie’s intelligence and resilience, viewing her as an irresistible challenge. During an altercation at the Surf Club, Charlie pulls Darryl aside for a conversation, which leads to him mistakenly kissing her. Shocked by this, Charlie arrests him on charges of assaulting a police officer. Peacocke noted that this incident intensifies the friction between them. Facing community pressure, Charlie attempts to find more serious offenses linked to Darryl’s gang but comes up empty; meanwhile, Darryl interprets the kiss as a sign that Charlie may have feelings for him.

Although Darryl initially finds it hard to win over Charlie, Anderson predicted that her character would eventually develop romantic feelings for him. She pointed out that Brax’s complexity and emotional depth play a crucial role in this progression. Anderson also remarked on Charlie’s inner turmoil as she tries to resist Brax but cannot stop thinking about him. Colin Vickery from The Daily Telegraph observed that Darryl disrupts Charlie’s previously secure police environment; Anderson described their dynamic as a "forbidden love" filled with risk and excitement. She characterized their interactions as playful and flirtatious, revealing an unexplored side of Charlie. The arrival of Darryl’s former partner Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister) temporarily strains their relationship, though Vickery suggested that Charlie would not remain apart from Darryl for long.

Departure and death

In November 2011, Jonathon Moran and Elle Halliwell of The Daily Telegraph reported that Anderson had decided to leave Home and Away to pursue opportunities in Hollywood. The following month, Inside Soap confirmed her exit; however, it remained uncertain whether her character, Charlie, would be killed off or written out in another way. Anderson completed filming her final scenes in August 2011, which were broadcast in January 2012. She expressed contentment with her choice to depart and explore new career paths.

Within the storyline, Charlie relocates to the city alongside Brax, Ruby, and Casey. Yet at the conclusion of season 23, she is shot twice by Jake Pirovic as revenge for killing his brother. Severely wounded, she undergoes surgery but remains dependent on life support. Ruby faces the heart-wrenching decision of whether to turn off Charlie’s ventilator.

Eventually, Ruby and Brax agree to discontinue life support after doctors confirm no further medical options remain, resulting in Charlie’s death. Anderson praised the exit narrative as a "tragic love story" and lauded the writers for their handling of Charlie and Brax’s storyline. She acknowledged that some fans might be disappointed by the couple’s fate but noted that the series producer felt ending Charlie’s story was the most fitting conclusion after investing heavily in their relationship development. Anderson described her emotional reaction to these events but stated she was ultimately satisfied with such a dramatic farewell. Her final appearance aired on 24 January 2012.

Return

On 25 November 2012, Debbie Schipp of the Herald Sun announced that Anderson was set to rejoin Home and Away in December to shoot several episodes scheduled for broadcast the following year. Schipp highlighted the "intense speculation" regarding how the writers would handle Charlie's on-screen demise in January. Anderson disclosed that she had kept her comeback under wraps and expressed enthusiasm about the storyline, which had been planned months in advance. Charlie made her return on 17 June 2013.

Storylines

Charlie arrives in Summer Bay with a warning for Morag Bellingham about her father, Ross, who confesses his love for Morag. Beginning her role as a Senior Constable at the Yabbie Creek Police Station, Charlie teams up with Jack Holden; her sister Ruby also makes an appearance. She enters into a relationship with Roman Harris and eventually comes to terms with Ross and Morag's romance. After Ross receives an Alzheimer's diagnosis, he moves into a care facility, which deeply affects Charlie. Following her breakup with Roman, Charlie battles alcohol dependency but recovers after nearly losing her life while saving Annie Campbell. She is promoted and starts dating Angelo Rosetta, gaining respect within the community and forming close bonds with Leah Patterson-Baker and Miles Copeland.

Charlie becomes involved in the investigation of Joey Collins' rape and offers Joey shelter after she is expelled by her brother Brett Collins. After rescuing Joey from drowning, they share a kiss; Charlie later confesses her feelings, leading to a romantic relationship. However, a drunken one-night stand with Hugo Austin ends their involvement. Subsequently, Charlie dates Angelo but is struck by Brett during one of their outings. At the hospital, Morag questions Charlie about a cesarean scar; Charlie reveals she was raped at fourteen by her boyfriend Grant and that Ruby is her daughter. When Grant appears and dies under suspicious circumstances, Charlie is arrested but Ross admits to killing him.

Angelo advances to Sergeant; Charlie rises to Leading Senior Constable and becomes his deputy, creating tension due to their reversed hierarchy. Angelo leaves law enforcement to start a restaurant; they part ways amicably. After Ross passes away, Charlie and Ruby attend his funeral. The arrival of the River Boys surf gang introduces Darryl "Brax" Braxton into Charlie's life; their complex relationship includes arrests, secret romances, and disputes over Ruby's involvement with Casey Braxton.

Charlie arrests Heath Braxton during a marijuana plantation bust and grows concerned when Angelo disappears. Discovering her relationship with Brax causes conflicts; they break up and reunite multiple times amid drug raids, arrests, and family turmoil. When Brax is stabbed, Charlie acknowledges her love for him despite complications involving Brax’s ex Tegan, who falsely claims Brax fathered her child.

Heath’s release leads him to find Charlie and Brax together; despite this, Charlie maintains professionalism during The Great Storm events. After Tegan dies in a car accident, threats against Charlie escalate from Jake Pirovic’s brother Hammer, who kidnaps both her and Brax. In self-defense, Charlie shoots Hammer dead but faces suspension. Public disclosure of her relationship with Brax further complicates her career.

Charlie investigates a petrol station robbery connected to Brax but is removed from the case after allowing him an opportunity to steal evidence. A countryside trip with Bianca Scott results in reconciliation with Brax until a car accident strains their friendships. Planning to leave Summer Bay for the city alongside Brax, Casey, and Ruby, Charlie is shot by Jake on her final day in uniform. She undergoes surgery but remains on life support; ultimately, Ruby and Brax decide to remove her ventilator.

After Brax is shot by Adam Sharpe (Martin Lynes), he loses consciousness and experiences visions of Charlie warning him of impending danger. Poisoned by Adam while hospitalized, Brax falls into a coma where he again sees Charlie encouraging him to let go so he can reunite with Ricky Sharpe (Bonnie Sveen).

Reception

Anderson garnered several award nominations for her role as Charlie. At the 2008 Inside Soap Awards, she was up for "Sexiest Female". In 2010, her accolades included nominations for "Best Daytime Star", "Most Popular Personality on Australian Television", and "Most Popular Actress" at the Logie Awards. The following year, Anderson received another nod for "Best Daytime Star", and in 2012, she was again shortlisted for Most Popular TV Personality and Actress at the Logies. Additionally, the episode depicting Charlie's death earned a nomination from the Australian Writers' Guild.

Holy Soap identified Charlie’s most notable moment as "Locking lips with gal pal Joey". Writer Catherine Deveny criticized the watered-down representation of Charlie and Joey’s same-sex relationship, labeling their initial kiss as the "TV disappointment of the year" and linking it to a drop in viewership during that plotline. Deveny also observed that objections to the depiction of a same-sex relationship on a family program came predominantly from mothers.

In a 2010 poll conducted by Holy Soap, Charlie and Angelo were voted as fans’ favourite couple on Home and Away, securing 45% of the votes. They were described as "the Bay's criminally hot couple" due to their intense on-again, off-again dynamic. Later commentary from Holy Soap remarked on Charlie’s "questionable taste in men". Peter Dyke from the Daily Star referred to Charlie as "Sexy" and suggested many would appreciate her role as a local police officer. The Daily Record characterized her pursuit to expose Grant as a rapist as bordering on obsession and noted that since her arrival, Charlie’s family has been central to much of the show’s drama.

Charlie attracted unfavorable critiques from Ruth Deller of Lowculture, who ranked her fifth among the worst soap characters in May 2009, criticizing both Anderson’s performance and the contentious story arcs. Deller maintained this viewpoint in July 2009 but acknowledged that Charlie’s daughter offered a more positive contrast.

All About Soap commended the chemistry between Charlie and Darryl, eagerly anticipating when she would abandon her "law-abiding facade". Erin Miller from TV Week described their shared "steamy moment" as highly awaited by viewers. Kerry Barrett and Carena Crawford of All About Soap portrayed Charlie as a "sexy sergeant" and the "cutest crime fighter," recognizing that while her involvement with Brax was risky, her demise came as a surprise. They also questioned how Summer Bay residents would manage without her presence.

External links

• Character profile at the Official AU Home and Away website
• Character profile at the Official UK Home and Away website