Kieran Baldivis
Gemma Parata | |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Fictional character |
| Years active | 2020 |
| Known for | Home and Away |
Gemma Parata
Gemma Parata, played by Bree Peters, made her first appearance on 27 January 2020. Peters' involvement was announced in November 2019, with further character insights shared in TV Week. Describing Gemma, Peters highlighted her role as a strong maternal figure within a male-dominated household, drawing inspiration from her own social circle and underscoring the importance of family bonds. Without prior notice, Gemma exited the series on 8 July 2020, returning to New Zealand to lay her late husband Mikaere’s ashes to rest. Peters commended the show's representation of Māori culture through its characters.
Gemma is the mother of Nikau Parata and sister-in-law to both Tane Parata and Ari Parata. After Ari experiences a hostage crisis, Gemma visits him and subsequently accepts employment at the Pier Diner. Financial difficulties compel the family to leave their motel accommodation, leading Marilyn Chambers to offer them shelter. This arrangement causes friction with her spouse John Palmer because of Ari’s criminal history and the circumstances surrounding Gemma’s husband’s fatal police shooting. Throughout these challenges, Gemma endeavors to resolve disputes and provides unwavering support to Nikau during his personal struggles, including when Bella Nixon engages in self-harm.
Upon Tane’s arrival, he secures a rental home for the family, while Gemma transitions to working at Salt following reduced hours at the Diner. She organizes a traditional hāngī feast that facilitates a bond with Ben Astoni, sparking brief romantic interest which they mutually decide not to pursue after familial objections arise. After a theft at the Diner implicates the Parata family, Gemma chooses to return alone to New Zealand to scatter Mikaere’s ashes, deciding to remain there permanently and later inviting Nikau to join her.
Nikau Parata
Nikau Parata, portrayed by Kawakawa Fox-Reo, first appeared on screen on 28 January 2020. Fox-Reo was cast alongside Rob Kipa-Williams (who plays Ari Parata) towards the end of 2019. Although Fox-Reo had been accepted into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, he opted to decline this opportunity in order to participate in the show. He relocated to Sydney for filming and collaborated closely with writers and fellow actors to ensure an authentic portrayal of the newly introduced Māori family members, including Ari and Tane Parata.
Nikau is depicted as impulsive and self-assured in his interactions with women, maintaining a strong connection with his mother, Gemma. Early plotlines featured conflicts with Jade Lennox and a romantic involvement with Bella Nixon, which encountered opposition from other characters.
In November 2022, it was revealed that Fox-Reo would be departing from the series after completing filming his final scenes. Nikau’s exit was broadcast on 2 March 2023, concluding with his character leaving Summer Bay for New York alongside Bella.
Tane Parata
Tane Parata, portrayed by Ethan Browne, made his first appearance on 10 February 2020. Browne's casting was revealed on 29 December 2019, marking his television debut. Tane is the sibling of Ari Parata (Rob Kipa-Williams) and a member of the show's newly introduced Māori family, which also includes Nikau Parata (Kawakawa Fox-Reo). The cast worked closely with the writers to maintain cultural accuracy. Characterized as a "free spirit" and "mischief maker," Tane is recognized for his dedication and affection toward his family. In the series' 8000th episode aired on 27 March 2023, Tane wed Felicity Newman (Jacqui Purvis). Following the exit of his immediate family from the storyline, producers brought in his cousin Kahu Parata (Jordi Webber) in April 2023. Ethan Browne earned a nomination for Best Daytime Star at the 2022 Inside Soap Awards.
Marco Astoni
Marco Astoni, played by Tim Walter, was introduced on 12 March 2020. Walter had previously appeared in the series back in 2008. Marco is the brother of established character Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol), added to expand Ben’s backstory. He has harbored feelings for Ben’s wife, Maggie Astoni (Kestie Morassi), since their youth. A concealed one-night encounter from 22 years earlier complicates family dynamics when it comes to light.
The producers describe Marco as "confident" and "smooth-talking." He manages the family enterprise, which has experienced financial difficulties due to poor management, leaving him in debt. Arriving in Summer Bay under the guise of mending relationships, he proposes a business partnership that unsettles Maggie. Although initially met with hostility, Ben and Marco eventually reconcile but remain strained over Maggie’s secret.
Marco attempts to pressure Maggie into persuading Ben to invest in his venture, threatening to reveal their past liaison. This disclosure triggers family turmoil and leads to a paternity test for Ben’s daughter Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman), which confirms Ben’s paternity. Despite confessing his continued love for Maggie, Marco ultimately accepts Ben’s role and departs Summer Bay after Maggie threatens to expose his failed business dealings to their parents.
Evan Slater
Evan Slater, portrayed by Cameron Daddo, appeared for the first time on 14 May 2020. Daddo’s casting was announced in November 2019, with character details disclosed shortly before his debut. His role was contracted for two months. Daddo described Summer Bay as "a charming place" and expressed appreciation for the opportunity during uncertain times in the entertainment industry.
Evan is revealed as the estranged father of regular character Ryder Jackson (Lukas Radovich) and a potential romantic interest for Ryder’s aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker). Ryder initially views Evan with suspicion, while grandfather Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) approaches Evan’s arrival warily. Evan’s backstory involves a brief relationship with Ryder’s mother Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox) when they were musicians touring on a cruise ship. Although Evan planned to settle down with Quinn on the Gold Coast, he ultimately did not follow through, leaving Quinn to raise Ryder alone. Alf's distrust results in a frosty reception that nearly causes Evan to leave Summer Bay.
Amber Simmons
Amber Simmons, played by Maddy Jevic, made her debut on 23 July 2020 and remained on the show until May 2021. Jevic, who was previously a fan of Home and Away, began filming in January and commended the cast and crew for their friendliness. Known for her earlier role as nurse Lee Radcliffe in Wentworth, Jevic found Amber to be a notably different and intriguing character. Amber works as a home carer assigned to assist John Palmer (Shane Withington), who became wheelchair-bound following a stroke. Characterized as "loyal, funny and tough," Amber shares a history with Willow Harris (Sarah Roberts), Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor), and Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin), having grown up together in Mangrove River. Amber's past romantic involvement with Dean complicates matters, especially when she encounters Colby, now serving as a police officer.
Amber's narrative centers on her efforts to overcome John's resistance to care and rehabilitation after his stroke. Although initially met with hostility—including threats of dismissal from John—she remains determined to continue her caregiving role. Her reunion with Dean is fraught with tension upon Colby's arrival; Amber confronts Colby over the death of her brother Jai in a car accident, blaming him for the tragedy. She also seeks to mend her relationship with Willow Harris, ultimately forgiving both Willow and Dean. Amber's departure storyline involves spending time with Tane Parata (Ethan Browne) before leaving Summer Bay accompanied by her son Jai Simmons (River Jarvis).
Owen Davidson
Owen Davidson, portrayed by Cameron Daddo, first appeared on 24 August 2020. Confirmed by Women's Day, Owen is introduced as the estranged twin brother of Evan Slater, who is also played by Daddo. Regarding portraying two characters, Daddo explained he had time between scenes to develop Owen’s background. He expressed excitement about being cast as Owen following the conclusion of Evan's storyline. Owen becomes romantically involved with Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker). His final appearance occurred on 12 November 2020.
Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Owen is recognized by Ryder Jackson and Alf Stewart due to his striking resemblance to Evan Slater. He discovers that he and Evan are twins separated at birth and adopted into different families. Owen inquires about Evan from Ryder and Roo, receiving Evan’s guitar as a keepsake to feel connected to his brother. After initial conversations with Roo, they begin dating, moving forward quickly despite Roo canceling their first planned date. Their relationship faces obstacles when Roo’s family voices their disapproval.
Owen reflects on his birthday, which stirs memories of Evan, prompting Roo to arrange a joint celebration for both brothers. Eventually, Owen decides to leave Summer Bay but invites Roo to visit Evan’s grave alongside him. Later, Roo returns alone after mistakenly calling Owen by Evan’s name during an intimate moment, causing strain between them. Despite efforts to reconcile, Owen senses Roo’s lingering feelings for Evan; consequently, they end their relationship and Owen departs from the Bay.
Taylor Rosetta
Taylor Rosetta, played by Annabelle Stephenson, made her first appearance on 26 August 2020. Stephenson's casting was announced on 1 August 2020. After initially auditioning in 2019 while based in Italy but not securing the part, she was cast upon returning to Australia and relocated to Sydney for filming. Stephenson described the production atmosphere as relaxed and inviting, emphasizing the "Aussie spirit." She portrayed Taylor as "a friendly and fiercely independent woman."
Taylor is married to Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz), who returns to Summer Bay after an extended absence. Taylor fell for Angelo during her physiotherapy studies, attracted by his enthusiasm and charm. However, feeling neglected by Angelo, Taylor embarks on an affair with his suspect Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin). Stephenson explained that Taylor’s relationship with Colby is complicated, blending elements of love and betrayal amid an ongoing murder investigation.
While in Summer Bay, Taylor supports Angelo’s homicide inquiry but grows increasingly distant as Angelo prioritizes his work commitments. She develops a friendship with Colby, who provides comfort amid marital difficulties. After Angelo cancels plans to follow up on a lead, Taylor visits Colby; this encounter leads to a kiss and eventually an affair during Angelo’s absence. As news of the affair spreads among others, including Willow Harris and Bella Nixon, Taylor attempts to bring it to an end.
Christian Green
Christian Green, portrayed by Ditch Davey, made his first appearance on 16 September 2020. Announced on 19 June 2020, Davey considered the role a fortunate opportunity during difficult times. Christian is a neurosurgeon brought in to manage a critical health situation at Northern Districts Hospital, specifically consulting on Justin Morgan's spinal tumour case. His persona is characterized by arrogance balanced with wit and an underlying compassionate nature. Additionally, he develops a romantic relationship with fellow physician Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee). In September 2021, both actors exited the series as their characters wed and moved to London.
Kieran Baldivis
Kieran Baldivis, enacted by Rick Donald, debuted on 26 November 2020. Donald, who had previously appeared in a guest role in 2011, was attracted to the multifaceted character of Kieran, the estranged son of Martha Stewart, grappling with mental health issues and addiction. Introduced as a disruptive force within the Stewart family, Kieran’s narrative focuses on his journey toward recovery and mending fractured relationships.
Arriving in Summer Bay, Kieran aims to reconnect with his mother Martha and half-sister Roo while confronting his struggles with alcoholism and anger. He gains employment at a local gym and endeavors to repair family bonds, though his arrival initially stirs conflict. Following several incidents—including abducting Martha during a relapse—Kieran is apprehended but subsequently released under a good behaviour bond.
Returning sober, Kieran strives to rebuild trust within the community by attending AA meetings and seeking support. While Alf Stewart remains skeptical of Kieran’s transformation, Roo and others encourage his acceptance. Throughout his stay, Kieran navigates ongoing challenges balancing sobriety with family tensions, including misunderstandings involving Jasmine Delaney. Ultimately, he chooses to leave Summer Bay for work in Merimbula, departing with a cautious handshake from Alf.
Lewis Hayes
Lewis Hayes, played by Luke Arnold, first appeared on 30 November 2020. Arnold’s casting was confirmed in early November 2020. He described Lewis as driven by revenge and as a love interest for Jasmine Delaney (Sam Frost). Both characters serve as nurses, with Arnold consulting real nurses to portray the role authentically. Lewis shares a history with Jasmine; after their brief relationship ended, Lewis found love again but lost his partner, whom he blames surgeon Christian Green (Ditch Davey) for losing due to medical complications.
Lewis arrives in Summer Bay intending to confront Christian but becomes torn between his fixation on vengeance and rekindling his romance with Jasmine.
While working as an agency nurse at Graydon Prison infirmary, Lewis reconnects with Jasmine and invites her out for coffee. Spending time together in Summer Bay reveals both are widowed—Lewis having lost Anna in a car accident. He saves Colby Thorne following an assault and collaborates with Jasmine to facilitate Colby’s sister’s prison visit despite restrictions. Later transferring to Northern Districts Hospital to work alongside Jasmine, Lewis monitors Christian’s medical practices due to mistrust stemming from Anna’s fatal surgery.
Lewis attains the position of nursing unit manager at the hospital and confesses his feelings for Jasmine. At Christian and Tori's engagement party, Lewis prevents Christian from performing surgery over concerns about intoxication. After the patient dies, Christian demands Lewis be fired; however, Tori intervenes. Professionally undermining Christian escalates tensions until Lewis publicly reveals details surrounding Anna’s death. Although Christian apologizes, he denies culpability, unsettling Lewis further.
Driven by revenge, Lewis attempts to harm patient Ari Parata to implicate Christian but is thwarted; instead, another patient dies under his actions, prompting an investigation. Following a physical confrontation with Christian and subsequent suspension of Christian (later rescinded), Lewis intensifies conflict by reporting Christian for assault and provoking further disputes. Jasmine urges Lewis to seek therapy amid his vendetta.
Later, Lewis holds Christian hostage in a hospital ward demanding a confession regarding Anna’s death. When Christian refuses, Lewis administers a fatal injection. Tori intervenes to rescue Christian while Lewis escapes. Confronting Jasmine afterward, he is condemned for his actions; discovering Christian survived causes Lewis an emotional breakdown. Ultimately, Lewis surrenders to authorities and expresses remorse. He pleads guilty to multiple patient murders and attempted murder of Christian, concluding his storyline with legal repercussions.
Others
| Date(s) | Role | Performer | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 January | Hostage Taker #3 | Emanuele Battaglia | Members of the Ouroboros gang who seize hostages in the hospital emergency area. One inspects the stairwell and discovers a phone playing a recorded message before Dean Thompson incapacitates and disarms him. |
| Hostage Taker #4 | Rik-Mei Karena | ||
| 27 January– | Paramedic Charlie / Ambulance Officer | Kathryn Schuback | Responsible for transporting key individuals to Northern Districts Hospital after emergencies, including Robbo (Home and Away), Colby Thorne, Ben Astoni, and John Palmer (Home and Away). Initially credited as Ambulance Officer, later as Paramedic Charlie. |
| 27 January– | Nurse Freya Bozic | Francisca Braithwaite | Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital providing critical care for Robbo (Home and Away), Colby Thorne, Christian Green, among others, while also engaging in workplace interactions. |
| 3 February | AFP Chaplain | Winston Cooper | Officiates the funeral service for Robbo. |
| Terence Salisbury | Howard Stone | Attends Robbo's funeral and shares insights about the AFP with attendees. | |
| 5 February | Journalist | Deborah An | Conducts an interview with Marilyn Chambers regarding Ari Parata's bravery during the hospital hostage crisis. |
| 11–19 February | Patricia Hendersen | Sharni McDermott | Counsellor assisting Bella Nixon with trauma recovery and trust issues; suggests alternative therapeutic approaches. |
| 18–19 February | Jason | James Biasetto | Ex-boyfriend of Mackenzie Booth, confronts her about missing funds; his extortion attempt is prevented by Constable Colby Thorne. |
| 26–27 February | Douglas Maynard | Adam Booth | Takes Leah Patterson hostage; displays abusive conduct leading to arrest and a 25-year prison sentence after pleading guilty. |
| 27 April | Danny | Bryden White-Tuohey | Competes with Nikau Parata and Bella Nixon over a pool game; loses bets but departs on good terms. |
| Gavin | Steve Carroll | Customer at Pier Diner who instigates a minor dispute with Leah Patterson. | |
| 28 April | Ingrid Stone | Amy Kersey | Victims Services official aiding Leah Patterson in preparing an impact statement related to abuse. |
| 30 April | Steve | Cramer Cain | Employee at Bridge Farm Equine Centre overseeing therapy sessions involving Bella Nixon, Colby Thorne, and Willow Harris. |
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External links
- Cast and characters on the official Australian Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database