Rob Storey (Home and Away)
Rob Storey | |
|---|---|
| Occupation(s) | Schoolteacher, Entrepreneur |
| Years active | 1994–1995 (fictional character) |
| Known for | Home and Away |
Rob Storey is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Home and Away, broadcast on the Channel Seven. The character was brought to life by actor Matthew Lilley, appearing from 13 July 1994 until 12 May 1995.
Casting
Matthew Lilley portrayed Rob for a duration of one year, and notably, he continued to receive fan correspondence from viewers in Europe even three years after his departure from the show.
Character development
Rob embarks on a romantic relationship with Roxanne Miller (played by Lisa Lackey). However, Lackey expressed criticism of this plotline, describing it as implausible due to Roxanne's feminist principles clashing with Rob's seemingly sexist demeanor. Despite the ideological conflict, their relationship progresses until Roxanne is diagnosed with breast cancer after Rob discovers a lump during a shower. This revelation places considerable strain on their bond; Rob finds it difficult to handle the situation, while Roxanne seeks affirmation about her physical appeal.
Complications intensify when Rob’s former fiancée, Donna Bishop (portrayed by Nicola Quilter), arrives in Summer Bay. Although Rob reassures Roxanne that his past with Donna is behind him, lingering uncertainties remain. A writer for the Home and Away – Official Collector’s Edition observed that what initially appeared to be an ideal partnership quickly unraveled.
On the professional front, Rob transitions from his teaching career to entrepreneurship by purchasing the boat shed from Michael Ross (Dennis Coard), investing all his savings after growing disenchanted with grading assignments.
Storylines
Rob’s initial introduction occurs when he visits Alf Stewart’s store (Ray Meagher), returning as a former resident of Summer Bay. His arrival coincides with Jack Wilson (Daniel Amalm) beginning his first shift as Alf’s assistant, contributing to the unusual service Rob experiences. After being splashed by a negligent driver, Rob retaliates by inserting a potato into the man’s exhaust pipe, an act witnessed by Roxanne. Settling in Summer Bay, Rob befriends Shane Parrish (Dieter Brummer) and takes on handyman work. He applies for a position at Donald Fisher’s residence (Norman Coburn) but loses out to the deceitful Mick O'Reilly (Peter Whitford), who fabricates jobs to inflate charges. Donald subsequently dismisses Mick and hires Rob instead.
Though initially indifferent towards Rob, Roxy soon develops feelings for him, and they begin dating. Their intimacy is discovered on Donald’s kitchen floor by Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), who keeps the incident confidential until Sarah Thompson (Laura Vasquez) overhears and spreads the news. Rob moves into Irene’s home and frequently becomes entangled in her disputes with Selina Cook (Tempany Deckert). Encouraged by Roxy, Rob accepts a teaching role at Summer Bay High. At a party where Selina and Shannon Reed (Isla Fisher) clash, Rob intervenes by spraying them with a hose. During this time, he detects a lump on Roxy’s breast, leading to her cancer diagnosis. Rob supports her through the ordeal while also dealing with complications arising from Donna’s return.
Ready to propose marriage to Roxy, Rob faces rejection when she admits she does not love him and leaves for treatment alone. Donna offers comfort to Rob afterward, suggesting possible reconciliation until her abusive ex-boyfriend Andrew Warren (Adrian Lee) appears. Angered by Andrew’s history of abuse towards Donna and shocked at her reunion with him, Rob’s frustration impacts his performance at work, culminating in his dismissal following an altercation involving Jack. Subsequently, he convinces Michael to sell him the boat shed so he can launch his own business.
After Andrew assaults Donna out of jealousy over her connections with Rob and friend Travis Nash (Nic Testoni), Rob becomes her primary support and rescues her when Andrew attempts to prevent her relocation. With Andrew gone, there is potential for Rob and Donna to reconnect; however, she begins dating Travis instead. The last sighting of Rob shows him assisting Irene and Travis in supporting Curtis Reed (Shane Ammann) as he battles alcoholism following the death of his girlfriend Laura Bonnetti. Although Rob does not reappear on screen thereafter, he is referenced over time as continuing to live in Summer Bay.
Reception
A contributor to All About Soap referred to Rob and Roxy as an "ideal couple." An Inside Soap columnist highlighted Rob's profound empathy for Roxy, emphasizing how her breast cancer diagnosis strengthened their bond. Victoria Ross, also writing for Inside Soap, included Rob in a list of the top thirty soap opera "heartthrobs," underscoring his charisma. Another commentator observed that following Roxy's exit, Rob, described as "heartbroken," experienced life as a continuous state of "detention."