Kim Mitchell (Home and Away)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Founder | Seven Network |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that first aired on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The show's third season commenced on 8 January 1990. Below is a compilation of characters introduced throughout 1990, all under the guidance of executive producer Des Monaghan. In January, Rebekah Elmaloglou made her debut as Sophie Simpson. February welcomed Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon in the roles of schoolteacher Grant Mitchell and soldier Ben Lucini, respectively. March saw Jaiman Paget Bayly join the cast as recurring character Murray "Mullet" Jensen. April introduced Beach House owner Ernie Jacobs (David Weatherley) alongside Bridget Jackson (Paula Duncan). In May, Craig Black returned portraying student Paul Jensen, while Josephine Mitchell appeared as police officer Jane Holland. July brought siblings Blake Dean and Karen Dean, played by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett. September featured Kate Raison as Jennifer Atkinson, a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October introduced the divorced father Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). Finally, November added Rachael Beck as Grant’s sister, Kim Mitchell.
Sophie Simpson
Sophie Simpson, portrayed by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her first appearance on 23 January 1990 and remained on the show until 1993. Elmaloglou stepped back from the role due to fatigue and later left to focus on other ventures, citing health issues caused by her demanding schedule. She reprised her role in guest spots during 2002, 2003, and 2005.
Grant Mitchell
Grant Mitchell, enacted by Craig McLachlan, first appeared on-screen on 9 February 1990. Although McLachlan exited the series within the same year, he filmed additional scenes that aired in 1991, with Grant’s final episode broadcast on 20 September 1991. McLachlan characterized Grant as a "fashionable" educator who challenges authority, which earns him popularity among students. Despite his rebellious streak, Grant is committed to teaching and genuinely cares about his students’ welfare. For his portrayal, McLachlan received the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.
Ben Lucini
Benito "Ben" Lucini, played by Julian McMahon, was featured from 27 February 1990 until 1 May 1991. After undergoing four auditions, McMahon landed the role of Ben, a laid-back and easygoing 21-year-old Italian from a large family. Initially portrayed as fond of socializing and partying, Ben’s character develops maturity over time. A soldier by profession, he eventually falls in love with local resident Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and decides to leave the military. Hodgson described Ben as representing "traditional values" and "stability," qualities that Carly admires; their relationship culminates in marriage, which Hodgson anticipated would thrive due to their mutual affection. McMahon departed from Home and Away within the same year his character was introduced. Nonetheless, Peter Holmes of The Sydney Morning Herald critiqued McMahon’s acting as "wooden," comparing it to a "splendid impression of a Thunderbird."
Mullet
Murray "Mullet" Jensen, brought to life by Jaiman Paget Bayly, was featured from 26 March until 18 July 1990. He is depicted as a lively and spirited eleven-year-old with a penchant for adventure. As a typical rural child, Mullet enjoys fishing, which is the source of his nickname. His family struggles financially, living below the poverty threshold; his mother, Lorraine Jensen, finds it difficult to provide extras for him and his brother Paul Jensen. To earn some money, Mullet sells the fish he catches to Ailsa Stewart.
Mullet forms a bond with his classmate Sally Fletcher, even though she initially finds him irritating. He unintentionally causes trouble by bringing home Alf Stewart's pet crab but offers to assist Alf with fishing as a way to make amends. Mullet conceals his family's economic hardships from Sally, making up excuses until she assures him that it does not matter and invites him to attend a wedding. Tensions arise when Mullet goes fishing with Tammy Newton, sparking jealousy, but later he and Sally perform together at the Surf Club's talent night. After some mishaps during their performance and a short-lived attempt to reinvent himself as a pop singer, Mullet reverts to his original self.
He is last seen dancing with Sally at the wedding reception before his storyline concludes. Ten years on, Steven Matheson mentions Mullet in connection with Sally’s former romantic interests.
Ernie Jacobs
Ernie Jacobs, played by David Weatherley, appeared from 16 April 1990 through 9 January 1991.
Ernie leases his beachfront property to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The tenants conspire against Ernie, with Marilyn seducing him while Matt and Adam capture an embarrassing photograph. After an unsuccessful attempt to take the photo, Adam eventually shows it to Ernie. Following an accident in the kitchen, Adam replaces the damaged linoleum with turf that turns out to be infested with fleas, causing a pest issue. When Ernie confronts Adam about this, a flea bomb is set off but Ernie throws it out the window and threatens eviction. Ernie runs for councilor and gains an edge when Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal troubles. To prevent Ernie’s election, Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) enters the race against him. Marilyn uncovers incriminating material and teams up with Bobby to blackmail Ernie. Ultimately, Ernie sells the house to Marilyn.
Bridget Jackson
Bridget Jackson, portrayed by Paula Duncan, made her debut on 20 April 1990. Duncan was contracted for five weeks but was hesitant about relocating due to family obligations and was exploring other opportunities. Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and is depicted as "rough and unrefined," a character Duncan described as "a complete monster." Despite this challenging role, Duncan appreciated the experience and her working relationship with Minogue.
After Emma defends herself against her stepfather in an attack, she stays with her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), who was unaware that Bridget had a child. Bridget follows Emma to Summer Bay seeking custody, but Ailsa refuses because of previous family abuse involving Emma’s biological father and her stepfather Barry. Bridget reveals she left Barry after he admitted to abusing Emma. Although Bridget and Ailsa frequently clash, Bridget convinces Emma to return home by offering gifts and attention. However, Emma later comes back to Summer Bay reporting that Bridget has resumed her relationship with Barry, indicating little improvement in her circumstances.
Paul Jensen
Paul Jensen, brought to life by Craig Black, made his debut on 8 May 1990. Prior to this role, Black had a brief appearance as Travis. Paul is a 17-year-old student who also works as a shop assistant. He is the son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen and the elder sibling of Mullet Jensen. Known for his warm demeanor and clear communication skills, Paul excels academically and shares a close friendship with Steven Matheson.
Paul's father, Michael, once pursued a career in country music but faced setbacks that contributed to his parents' separation. Although Paul possesses innate musical ability, having taught himself by secretly practicing on pianos at school and the surf club, his mother Lorraine forbids him from engaging in music and prohibits instruments at home. Despite this opposition, teacher Grant Mitchell recognizes Paul's talent and encourages him to apply for a music scholarship, offering support for his training against Lorraine's wishes.
Rather than accepting the scholarship, Paul opts to work at Alf Stewart's store and purchases a used piano. This choice heightens tensions with Lorraine due to her disapproval of his musical interests. To highlight Paul's abilities, Grant arranges a school concert; initially reluctant, Paul agrees to participate after Lorraine softens her stance.
Paul develops a friendship with Emma Jackson, which grows into mutual attraction despite Emma being involved with Adam Cameron. Emma values Paul's musical gifts and shares a kiss with him but remains committed to Adam. When Adam uncovers their closeness, he confronts Paul with a challenge after insults are exchanged about Paul's father. Alf steps in to organize a fair boxing match between them. With training assistance from Alf and Steven, Paul prepares for the fight. The confrontation escalates until Emma and their friends intervene by dousing both fighters with water, causing embarrassment for Paul and temporarily straining their relationship before they reconcile.
Following an incident where exam papers are planted in Emma’s locker by Vicki Baxter—resulting in Emma’s expulsion—Paul questions her innocence and ends their relationship. Working alongside Steven, Paul devises a plan to expose Vicki’s scheme by pretending to date her, ultimately vindicating Emma. Encouraged by others in the community, Emma forgives Paul but later accepts employment on the Gold Coast, concluding their romantic involvement while preserving their friendship.
Jane Holland
Jane Holland, portrayed by Josephine Mitchell, first appeared on 22 June 1990. Mitchell began filming in April 1990 under a contract lasting two months. She described the role as challenging due to longer working hours compared to her previous experience on A Country Practice. Jane is introduced as a young police constable and serves as a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Knowing McLachlan socially beforehand, Mitchell welcomed the chance to portray a more assertive character distinct from her earlier roles.
Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Jane quickly begins dating Grant. She arrests Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for drink-driving, leading to his license suspension. After a shootout in Yabbie Creek results in an officer’s death, Jane is found alive but emotionally shaken. She also steps in when two men harass Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) at the diner. Concerned about Jane’s wellbeing, Grant advises her to take time off. Contemplating resignation, Jane ends her relationship with Grant and returns to work with the city police force.
Blake Dean
Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, made his debut on 26 July 1990. Before joining Home and Away, Hill had appeared in the series G.P. His casting, along with Belinda Jarrett who played his sister Karen Dean, was revealed shortly before their on-screen arrival. Hill noted that the rapid filming schedule was the most demanding part of the role.
The Home and Away Annual characterized Blake as "the kind of boy any parent would be proud to claim as their son." He is lively, charismatic, and sharp-minded, qualities that often help him steer clear of trouble. He frequently attempts to shield his sister Karen from dangerous situations. Although Hill announced his exit from the show, he has returned for special episodes such as the fourteenth anniversary and the 4,000th episode celebrations.
Karen Dean
Karen Dean, enacted by Belinda Jarrett, first appeared alongside Blake on 26 July 1990. With no previous television experience, Jarrett joined Home and Away as part of a sibling pairing with Les Hill. Their characters arrived in Summer Bay after their mother Margot passed away from cancer, initially living with their estranged uncle before being taken in by Ailsa and Alf Stewart in accordance with their mother's last wish. Their introduction was promoted as bringing "exciting storylines" that would captivate viewers.
Writers David Nicholls and Kesta Desmond depicted Karen as a fifteen-year-old grappling with body image issues, shy yet kind-hearted, and involved in a developing romantic storyline that steered clear of peers her own age. Although popular at school, Karen’s character failed to resonate strongly with audiences, leading Seven Network to decide against renewing Jarrett's contract in 1991. Karen departed the show in August 1991 but made a brief return in 1993 following a prison sentence.
Karen and Blake arrive seeking refuge with Ailsa Stewart after disputes with their uncle Alec Dean. Initially met with Alf Stewart’s reluctance, they eventually settle in Summer Bay and become involved in various plots including Karen’s unreciprocated affection for Steven Matheson and conflicts triggered by deputy principal Alan Stone’s contentious reintroduction of corporal punishment. Karen develops feelings for Haydn Ross, straining her friendship with Sophie Simpson before reconciliation occurs.
A pivotal storyline centers on Karen’s involvement with Maurice "Revhead" Gibson, whose criminal lifestyle draws her into unlawful activities including robbing Alf’s store. After a car accident resulting in David Croft's death, Karen is arrested and sentenced to two years in prison.
Upon release on parole in 1993, Karen returns to Summer Bay reconnecting with the Stewarts and meeting her half-sister Roxanne Miller. Her persistent rebellious behavior causes tension; after stealing money from Ailsa, she escapes to the city where Blake follows to offer support.
Karen Dean’s narrative explores themes of troubled adolescence and redemption within the series’ broader examination of complex family relationships and social challenges relevant to its audience.
Jennifer Atkinson
Jennifer Atkinson, played by Kate Raison, first appeared on 12 September 1990. Cast initially for an eight-week guest stint, Jennifer's storyline involved a controversial relationship with teenage Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), described as a "passionate affair" that challenged Summer Bay's social norms. Jennifer is Alf Stewart's cousin and married to Daniel Atkinson, an abusive alcoholic. The affair leads to jealousy and violent confrontations from Daniel. Ultimately, Jennifer ends the relationship and departs, advising Steven to prioritize his education.
Michael Ross
Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, made his first appearance on 22 October 1990 alongside his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). As the new proprietor of the Summer Bay boat shed, Michael quickly became a central character and romantic partner for Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance). Their relationship initially faced opposition due to Pippa’s recent widowhood and Michael’s divorce; however, they married and blended their families, fostering children together.
During his time on the show, Michael managed several business ventures including the boat shed, caravan park, and surf club kiosk while handling family difficulties. His son Haydn’s gambling addiction caused financial hardship that forced Michael to put the boat shed up for sale and accept Alf Stewart as a silent partner. Despite marital strains resulting from these pressures, Michael and Pippa reconciled after attending counseling sessions.
Michael also demonstrated heroism during community emergencies such as rescuing survivors from a seaplane crash and fostering Maya Krakajcek following her parents’ deaths. In 1996, producers decided to write out his character by having him die during a flood rescue attempt. Michael's death brought a dramatic conclusion to his six-year presence on the show and significantly impacted Summer Bay’s storyline and business environment.
Haydn Ross
Haydn Ross, played by Andrew Hill, first appeared on 31 October 1990 and departed on 17 September 1991, returning briefly in 1994 and again in 1996. Hill secured the role unexpectedly due to an agent’s mistake. In 1991 he chose to leave the series. Haydn is the son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard). He attends private school funded by his father’s business ventures. The Home and Away Annual describes him as "athletic and determined like his father," with an appreciation for culture and a privileged lifestyle inherited from his mother.
Kim Mitchell
Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, debuted on 8 November 1990 as Grant Mitchell’s sister (Craig McLachlan). Producers offered Beck a twelve-month contract aiming to establish Kim as a regular character; however, she declined to avoid being typecast.
Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Kim hides her drug addiction despite being only sixteen years old. Beck described Kim as someone who maintains a flawless exterior while engaging in risky behavior, living by the philosophy "Why not enjoy life fully while you are young?" Kim rationalizes her addiction believing "everyone else is doing it."
Visiting her brother Grant, Kim steals money from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) then later requests drugs from both Matt and Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). After failing to return home one night, she fabricates excuses to conceal her addiction. Kim escalates her behavior by stealing from Carly Lucini (Sharyn Hodgson) and forging Grant’s signature on a cheque to pay dealer Eddie (Peter Williams). When Steven informs Grant about Kim’s drug use after finding speed pills in her bag, Grant confronts her and arranges rehabilitation treatment at the cost of giving up his position at Summer Bay High School to support her recovery. He contacts their parents but warns Kim he will inform them if she relapses. Grant returns months later reporting improvements in Kim's condition.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 January | Robbo | Ned Manning | Veterinarian brought by shark hunter Zac Burgess (Mark Conroy) to investigate whether a shark caused a fatal attack; examination reveals shark was not responsible. |
| 29 January | Henry Thompson | Tim Allen | Potential purchasers of Blaxland mansion deterred after an exorcism staged by Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence) who suspect haunting. |
| Doris Thompson | Jane Archer | ||
| 2–16 February | Greta | Jodie Gilles | Friend of Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) introduced as possible romantic interest for Martin Dibble (Craig Thomson); despite initial reluctance due to looks, Martin grows fond before Greta leaves. |
| 9 February–1 March | Detective Hunt | Kim Knuckey | Leads investigation into murder involving Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn), resulting in arrest then exoneration through ballistics; also arrests blackmailer Al Simpson (Terence Donovan) after hostage crisis. |
| 27 February–8 March | Dave Porter | John Adam | Army acquaintance of Ben Lucini (Julian McMahon) whose disruptive conduct affects local events including betting sabotage attempts. |
| 12 March | Travis | Craig Black | Year 12 student attending classes taught by Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). |
| 30 March–3 April | Reverend Christopher Goodhope | Ron Becks | African clergyman invited by Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence) for fundraising purposes; mistakenly detained but later freed; subsequently relocates to city inspiring Celia towards missionary work. |
| Multiple dates (6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012) |
Delivery Man | Steve Cox | Delivery person appearing intermittently over years involved in minor interactions at Surf Club with characters such as Tony Holden, Leah Patterson-Baker, and Bianca Scott. |
| 16 April–11 September | Des Thompson | Brian Harrison | Bank manager facilitating loans for Carly Morris initially then jointly with Ben Lucini for purchasing local boatshed. |
| 17–26 April | Melody | Suzi Dougherty | Rents room at Beach House attracting attention; moves boyfriend Bruce (Bill Charlton) in; both eventually driven away using Bruce's fear of snakes. |
| 18 April | Peter Butcher | Matthew Booker | Year 10 student who mocks Sophie Simpson's illiteracy. |
| 25–26 April | Bruce | Bill Charlton | Melody's boyfriend recently released from prison; intimidates flatmates until scared off by snake prank. |
| 3 May–17 July | 'Minister' | 'John Mann' | 'Conducts funeral of Tom Fletcher and wedding ceremony for Carly Morris and Ben Lucini.' |
| 8 May–19 June | 'Lorraine Jensen' | 'Elizabeth Chance' | 'Mother working at bookie supporting children; initially disapproves then accepts son's musical interests; uncovers family deception about injury.' |
| 15 May–27 July | 'Doctor Walker' | 'Earle Cross' | 'Local physician attending key characters during health issues including Marilyn Chambers’ illness and Bobby Simpson’s pregnancy.' |
| 21–24 May | 'Helen Wakefield' | 'Shayne Foote' | 'Childcare social worker investigating abuse allegations facilitating reunion between estranged mother Angela Newton and daughters.' |
| 21–23 May | 'Megan Tierney' | 'Pamela Hawkesford' | 'Wealthy old friend of Carly Morris displaying disdain for Summer Bay lifestyle; marital discord revealed during dinner.' |
| 23 May | 'Julian Tierney' | 'Cranston Brecht' | 'Affluent husband of Megan Tierney confronting marital problems publicly.' |
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23–25 May | "Angela Newton" | "Annie Byron" | "Estranged mother seeking reunion with daughters Vivien and Tammy Newton revealing past conflicts; relocates family to Queensland." |
| "Chris Reynolds" | "Jay Hackett" | "Client of dating agency connected romantically to Bobby Simpson; marriage difficulties emerge amid pregnancy revelation; resolves custody dispute." | |
| "Geoff Lime" | "William Usic" | "Dating agency candidate competing for Bobby Simpson's affection supporting her through pregnancy; engagement ultimately called off." | |
| "12–15 June" | "Gus" | "Harry Lawrence" | "Homeless man befriending Sophie Simpson encouraging her return to education through practical advice." |
| "27 June–23 July" | "Sheree Anderson" | "Beth Champion" | "Friend involved in framing Emma Jackson for exam theft causing romantic rivalry." |
| "11–18 July" | "Francesca Lucini" | "Kim Leon" | "Ben Lucini's sister attending wedding attempting seduction leading to family tension." |
| "Gina Lucini" | "Arianthe Galani" | "Ben Lucini's mother managing household dynamics during wedding preparations." | |
| "Antonio Lucini" | "Alistair Duncan" | "Father of Ben Lucini supporting family during wedding events." | |
| "12–18 July" | "Angelo" | "Raj Sidhu" | "Ben Lucini's cousin serving as best man whose disruptive behavior causes conflict at celebrations." |
| "30 July" | "Alec Dean" | "Norm Galton" | "Uncle taking custody of Blake and Karen Dean agreeing they remain with local family after escape." |
| "9 August" | "Anna" | "Rebecca George" | "Cousin aiding framing Emma Jackson exposed leading to Emma's reinstatement." |
| "29 August–5 September" | "Wendy Reynolds" | "Liz Newman" | "Chris Reynolds' wife leaving him due to infidelity involved in custody dispute over daughter Suzie." |
| "Suzie Reynolds" | "Sophia Davidson" | "Daughter caught between parental separation resolving custody peacefully." | |
| "6 September" | "Vince McGrath" | "Felix Nobis" | "Delivery man initiating brief romantic interest with Marilyn Chambers disrupted by jealous housemate." |
| "10 September – 12 October" | "Fred Owens" | "Keith Holloway" | "Boatshed owner negotiating sale offers ultimately accepting higher bid from Ben and Carly Lucini." |
| "14 September – 17 October " | "Hazel Lime" | "Kaye Stevenson" | "Mother opposing son's relationship with Bobby Simpson due to pregnancy concerns later becoming supportive." |
| "19 September–2 November" | "Alan Stone" | "Philip Hinton" | "Deputy principal exhibiting violent behavior including corporal punishment removed following student incidents." |
| "9–16 October" | "Daniel Atkinson" | "Ken Radley" | "Abusive alcoholic confronting wife's relationship with student charged after assault incident." |
| "14 November" | "Eddie" | "Peter Williams" | "Drug dealer supplying Kim Mitchell deterred by intervention from Steven Matheson." |
| "19 November 1990 – 8 March 1991" | 'Patricia Coleman' | 'Pam Western' | 'Former nun teaching at Summer Bay High providing support for students Blake Dean and Sally Fletcher forming relationship with Donald Fisher before relocating.' |