Ric Dalby (fictional character)
Ric Dalby | |
|---|---|
| Born | Eric Dalby |
| Other names | Eric Dalby |
| Occupation | Fictional character |
| Years active | 2004–2008 (on Home and Away) |
| Known for | Home and Away |
Eric "Ric" Dalby is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Home and Away, broadcast on the Seven Network. The character was brought to life by actor Mark Furze and appeared on the show from 15 September 2004 until 24 July 2008. Furze secured the role after impressing casting directors during auditions and screen tests, drawn by Ric's multifaceted personality. Initially introduced as a rebellious bully with scant regard for authority, Ric gradually transforms into one of the series' more honorable figures, although his fierce temper remains a prominent characteristic. Both Furze and media commentators highlighted that Ric’s frequent involvement in physical altercations became a hallmark of his character.
Ric’s aggressive behavior serves as a catalyst for several key story arcs, including being wrongfully accused of murder and participating in an underground bare-knuckle boxing circuit that endangers his well-being. To prepare for this storyline, Furze undertook significant research and physical training, with some media outlets drawing parallels between this plot and the movie Fight Club due to their thematic resemblance. Ric’s background reveals a history of abuse inflicted by his father, Owen Dalby, which profoundly influences his demeanor. Upon his arrival in Summer Bay, it is disclosed that Ric is the grandson of established character Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). He finds stability when taken in by characters Flynn Saunders (Joel McIlroy) and Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie).
Throughout his time on the series, Ric engages in multiple romantic relationships, notably with Cassie Turner (Sharni Vinson), Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey), and shares a significant bond with his close friend Matilda Hunter (Indiana Evans).
Critics generally responded positively to Ric’s character. Jim Schembri from The Age described Ric’s romance with Matilda as "honourable." Nick Levine of Digital Spy praised Furze’s physical attractiveness, while Greg Hassal of The Sydney Morning Herald lauded the depth of Ric’s storylines. Conversely, Scott Ellis from the same publication pointed out that Ric often provoked irritation among other characters. Furze received multiple award nominations for his portrayal, including categories such as "Best Actor" and "Most Popular Actor."
Casting
Mark Furze was cast in Home and Away in 2004 after his agent informed him about the opportunity. He auditioned for the role of Ric, appreciating the chance to portray a "villainous" character for the first time. After initial auditions, Furze participated in a screen test alongside Ray Meagher and Indiana Evans, ultimately securing the part despite finding the experience quite intimidating.
In 2007, Furze took part in the singing competition Soapstar Superstar and reaffirmed his dedication to Home and Away. However, he departed from the series in 2008 to pursue a career in music.
Characterisation
Ric’s difficult childhood involved abuse at the hands of his father Owen Dalby, which contributed to his early rebelliousness and bullying conduct. At first, he was depicted as someone who took "great pleasure" in intimidating those weaker than himself. However, after moving to Summer Bay, Ric matures into a "stand-up guy." British broadcaster Channel 5 observed that Ric overcame his troubled past to settle into a more conventional lifestyle as an enthusiastic sportsman and sociable young man.
Furze has noted parallels between himself and Ric but stressed that Ric’s aggressive tendencies were more intense. Over time, playing Ric led to some merging of their characteristics; nonetheless, Furze emphasized that Ric’s volatility remained a compelling aspect central to his appeal. Although Ric softens into a more likable individual, he continues to exhibit a fiery temper. Furze appreciated this complexity but expressed interest in exploring more traditionally masculine scenes to offer balance to how the character was perceived.
Relationships
Ric's initial romantic involvements include connections with Cassie Turner (portrayed by Sharni Vinson) and Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey). In a plot twist infused with humor, Belle attempts to undermine Ric and Cassie's relationship by trying to seduce him. Eventually, the producers decided to conclude Ric's relationship with Cassie, with Furze commenting that the breakup scene was significant and demanded intense emotional performance, resulting in a powerful and believable depiction.
Subsequently, Ric enters into a relationship with Matilda Hunter (Indiana Evans), exploring common challenges faced by young adults. When Matilda moves into Ric’s home, he experiences discomfort due to her still attending school and begins to question her intentions. A pregnancy scare heightens the tension, but Matilda soon clarifies that she is not expecting.
In August 2007, Simone McAullay joined the cast as Viv Anderson, an older woman who entices Ric. Viv manipulates him by alleging threats from her husband, which sparks jealousy in Matilda. Suspecting Ric of cheating, Matilda ends their relationship. Feeling rejected and vulnerable to Viv’s advances, Ric sleeps with Viv. Both actors highlighted the emotional depth and manipulation present in this storyline.
Although Ric and Matilda reconcile briefly, Viv announces her pregnancy, further complicating matters. Despite feeling emotionally fragile on the anniversary of her mother’s death, Matilda chooses to support Viv. Furze explained that Ric’s failure to provide adequate support exacerbated the difficulties they faced, casting uncertainty over their future together.
Matilda opts to relocate to Perth for university studies and urges Ric either to accompany her or end their relationship. Ric declines this proposal, leading to their breakup. Furze noted Matilda’s frustration with Ric’s unwillingness to back her ambitions. Despite strong emotions between them, maintaining a long-distance relationship proves challenging. During this period, Ric develops a friendship with Kirsty Sutherland (Christie Hayes) and mistakenly kisses her as a way of coping with his feelings for Matilda. Although Kirsty offers emotional support, she does not return his romantic gesture. The storyline concludes with Ric and Matilda reuniting in Perth, marking their departure from the show.
Bare-knuckle boxing
Ric is frequently featured in physical altercations throughout the series. One notable plot involves a violent confrontation with Rocco Cooper (Ian Meadows) that results in Ric being imprisoned on a murder charge. While incarcerated, Ric faces threats from both Rocco and his brother Johnny Cooper (Callan Mulvey). These scenes were shot over four days in November 2006 at the historic Maitland Gaol in New South Wales, involving multiple cast members connected to Ric’s storyline. Furze mentioned that if he had creative freedom, he would have Ric engage in fights on a weekly basis, reflecting the character’s fiery temperament.
After becoming involved with Viv—who becomes pregnant—Ric is pressured by Viv's husband Noel (Steven Vidler) into participating in Bare-knuckle boxing. Furze embraced this narrative enthusiastically, appreciating the action-packed sequences and feeling it suited Ric’s character as a hot-headed fighter unlikely to change easily. Professional boxer Anthony Mundine assisted Furze during preparation by offering advice that complemented Furze’s own fitness routine and additional gym workouts.
On screen, Ric attempts to avoid fighting but ultimately must "fight to protect his unborn child," under threat from Noel who coerces Viv with threats of abortion. Although initially hesitant about becoming a father, Ric supports Viv’s choice and feels compelled to fight both to defend his masculinity and meet Noel’s demands for a high-stakes match. His opponent Logan harbors resentment linked to gang conflicts, raising the stakes further. Meanwhile, Ric collaborates with police officer Jack Holden (Paul O'Brien) in efforts to dismantle illegal fighting rings while receiving support from his girlfriend Matilda. When law enforcement sabotages their plans, Ric is forced into a life-threatening bout under gunpoint orders from Noel.
The storyline escalates as Ric takes employment at a jewellery store later targeted by an armed robbery carried out by Kane Phillips (Sam Atwell). The combined pressures of Viv’s pregnancy, underground fights, and the robbery take a toll on Ric's mental health. Furze explained that these cumulative stresses lead to a breakdown characterized by panic attacks despite his usual tough exterior. Recognizing his vulnerability, Ric begins therapy sessions with Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews) and initiates steps toward healing.
Storylines
Following his expulsion from a previous school, Ric arrives at Summer Bay High. He targets Henry Hunter with bullying due to Henry’s interest in dance and falsely accuses him of setting fire to the Surfclub Kiosk. Tasha Andrews incriminates Ric by planting evidence of a marijuana plantation on him, resulting in complications. After enduring abuse from his father, Ric retaliates by pushing him down the stairs, which leads to injury and a seizure. Morag Bellingham cautions Ric that he might face murder charges; however, these are dropped when it is determined that his father died from a heart attack.
Ric initially moves in with Alf Stewart but departs following a misunderstanding related to drug use; he clarifies that he requires insulin for diabetes management. Subsequently, he resides with Flynn Saunders and Sally Fletcher, opting to be called Ric instead of Dalby or Eric. Matilda Hunter forgives Ric for his earlier bullying of her brother, and they briefly date, though Sally advises Ric to maintain some distance. Later, Ric begins a relationship with Cassie after she moves in following her grandmother’s passing.
Ric grows suspicious of Matilda’s friend Callan Sherman, accusing him of drug abuse and assault. After Callan drugs Matilda, Ric assaults Callan and forces him to leave Summer Bay. Jealousy creates tension between Ric and Cassie, who dates Aden Jefferies; Aden’s brother Sean attacks Ric, but Ric and Cassie reconcile briefly. Ric leaves school to pursue an apprenticeship as a mechanic and dates Belle; however, after being bullied and assaulted by Dom Moran, he ends things with Belle to get back together with Cassie—who subsequently betrays him. Matilda supports Ric through this breakup, leading them to start dating.
Upon discovering that Rocco stabbed Sally, Ric assaults him; after Rocco is later found dead, Ric is charged and convicted of murder. While incarcerated, Johnny seeks revenge against Ric, but Matilda and Lucas Holden uncover Johnny’s involvement in the crime, resulting in Ric’s release. Tensions arise between Ric and Matilda over trust issues and her university aspirations; they contemplate pregnancy but ultimately decide they are not ready.
Ric receives messages from Viv, a garage customer who becomes entangled in a complex situation involving her abusive husband Noel. After Matilda finds out about a kiss between Ric and Viv, she ends their relationship; Ric later sleeps with Viv, who reveals she is pregnant. Noel coerces Ric into participating in bare-knuckle fights by threatening their child’s wellbeing and sabotaging his life. Despite sustaining injuries and experiencing stress-induced panic attacks diagnosed by Rachel, Ric continues fighting under police supervision to collect evidence against Noel.
Viv suffers a miscarriage; Matilda organizes a memorial service. Ric takes up work as a security guard but experiences trauma following a raid. Matilda gains acceptance to university in Perth; they attempt to maintain a long-distance relationship but eventually part ways due to practical challenges. Alf purchases a one-way ticket for Ric to Perth where he reunites with Matilda, and together they commit to building their future.
Reception
Furze received nominations for "Most Popular Actor" at the 2007 and 2008 Logie Awards for his portrayal of Ric. He regarded this recognition as an honor that validated the quality of his performance. At the 2007 Inside Soap Awards, Furze was nominated for "Best Actor," followed by a "Sexiest Male" nomination at the 2008 Digital Spy Soap Awards.
Jim Schembri of The Age commended Ric’s "nobility," highlighting his respectful conduct during sensitive story arcs, while Greg Hassal from The Sydney Morning Herald observed that such narratives contributed significantly to the show’s strong audience ratings. Roz Laws from the Sunday Mercury remarked on Ric’s recurring jealousy alongside his physical attractiveness, noting his popularity among viewers.
The entertainment site Digital Spy featured Ric in its gay column, labeling him "fit Ric" and drawing parallels between his intense bare-knuckle fighting storyline and the film Fight Club. Additionally, a TV Week survey placed Ric and Matilda as tied for third favorite couple among fans, underscoring their considerable viewer appeal.
External links
- Profile of the character on Homeandaway.com.au
- Character details at the Official Australian Home and Away site
- Character information on the Official UK Home and Away platform
- Character overview via the Internet Movie Database