Robbo (Home and Away)
| Company type | Fictional characters |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television |
| Founded | 2017 |
Riley Hawkins
Riley Hawkins, brought to life by Ryan O'Kane, made his first appearance on 31 January 2017. Introduced as the former partner of Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee) and a surgeon at Northern Districts Hospital, Riley performs surgery on Justin Morgan. His unexpected return catches Tori off guard, especially since she and her siblings have been under witness protection. Additionally, his arrival stirs feelings of envy in fellow physician Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor).
Riley seeks to rebuild his relationship with Tori, expressing remorse for previous unfaithfulness. Although their reconciliation initially shows promise, his ethical standards decline when he manipulates medical records in an attempt to have Nate dismissed. This misconduct leads to a breakup with Tori. After a heated encounter involving Justin Morgan, Riley chooses to resign from the hospital and departs from the storyline.
Scarlett Snow
Scarlett Snow, portrayed by Tania Nolan, appeared for the first time on 8 May 2017. Nolan, who is based in Los Angeles, traveled to Sydney for a screen test and secured a six-month role. She described Scarlett as somewhat enigmatic with a sorrowful history, which influenced her decision to relocate to Sydney for this part.
Within the narrative, Scarlett crosses paths with Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), who is on the run from law enforcement. After initially detaining him, she supports Brody in confronting his drug dependency by involving his family and providing assistance. Scarlett criticizes Justin Morgan (James Stewart) for his handling of Brody’s addiction. Following Brody’s relapse and theft, Scarlett loses her residence but receives help from Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), who offers her a caravan and employment at his bait shop.
Scarlett encounters threats from Bruno Addlen (Johnny Nasser), hired by her estranged spouse, demanding $8,000 in exchange for keeping her whereabouts confidential. With financial aid arranged through Brody’s family, she manages to pay off the debt. During this time, she forms a bond with Justin’s daughter Ava Gilbert (Grace Thomas) and discloses the loss of her son, Max.
Her connection with Justin develops amid personal challenges and external interference, including complications caused by her estranged husband Caleb Snow (Josh McConville). After surviving an assault and an explosion at a bush cabin that injures her, Scarlett experiences emotional turmoil between Caleb and Justin. Ultimately, she opts to leave the Bay alongside Caleb, acknowledging the complexities affecting both her personal life and career.
Ziggy Astoni
Ziggy Astoni, enacted by Sophie Dillman, made her debut on 20 June 2017. As the eldest daughter of Ben and Maggie Astoni, Ziggy represents part of the first nuclear family introduced on the show in seventeen years. She is portrayed as a rebellious teenager with a wild streak and is positioned as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan.
Ben Astoni
Ben Astoni, portrayed by Rohan Nichol, also debuted on 20 June 2017. Nichol moved from Melbourne to Manly to be nearer to the production location at Palm Beach. Ben relocates to Summer Bay alongside his wife Maggie and their daughters Coco and Ziggy. The Astoni family marks the soap's first new nuclear family introduction since 2000. Nichol described Ben as devoted, affectionate, and approachable—traits that resonate well with audiences and enrich the family dynamic.
Maggie Astoni
Maggie Astoni, brought to life by Kestie Morassi, made her debut on 21 June 2017. Morassi’s casting was announced early in 2017, with character specifics revealed on 4 June. She commented on the show's rapid filming pace, contrasting it with her previous film experience. Maggie relocates to Summer Bay alongside her husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol) and their two daughters: Coco (Anna Cocquerel) and Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). The Astoni family marked the first introduction of a traditional nuclear family to the series since the Sutherlands appeared in 2000, ending a 17-year interval.
Coco Astoni
Coco Astoni, portrayed by Anna Cocquerel, entered the series on 21 June 2017 as the youngest child of Ben and Maggie Astoni. The Astonis represented the first nuclear family addition to the soap in nearly twenty years. Coco was positioned as a potential romantic interest for VJ Patterson. In late 2018, Cocquerel reduced her filming commitments to focus on completing Year 12 studies.
Coco’s narrative involved being suspended due to cyberbullying, which prompted her family’s move to Summer Bay. She develops friendships with Raffy Morrison and encounters VJ Patterson, who eventually asks her out following a tutoring scheme. At Summer Bay High, Coco experiences bullying and battles bulimia, an eating disorder that leads to hospitalization and strains her relationships. Leah Patterson-Baker supports her during this difficult time, as Coco grapples with revealing her condition.
In terms of romance, Coco dates Ryder Jackson but faces breakups and jealousy involving Raffy. She organizes charity fundraisers and stands by her mother Maggie during a cancer diagnosis. Coco also serves as maid of honour at Ziggy’s wedding before deciding to attend boarding school in Cairns—a decision initially opposed by Maggie but ultimately embraced by her family.
Several months later, Coco returns for Raffy’s birthday party, confronting Brody Morgan regarding his infidelity affecting Ziggy. After apologizing for causing disruption, she discusses Ziggy’s new relationship before heading back to boarding school.
Robbo
Robbo (also known as John Doe), played by Jake Ryan, made his first appearance on 25 July 2017. Ryan disclosed he lost 13 kilograms prior to his debut, aiming to fill the "heart-throb gap" left by Darryl Braxton (Stephen Peacocke). Introduced as a "bad boy," Robbo became romantically linked with Kat. The character was written off during the opening episodes of season 33 in January 2020. Ryan explained his departure was due to feeling his "time had come" and appreciated exiting "on a high" after major story arcs.
John Doe is discovered hiding on a boat by Alf Stewart, Scarlett Snow, and Justin Morgan. Suffering from amnesia and unable to recall his identity, he is dubbed "Robbo." After breaking into the Pier Diner for food and causing disturbances, Alf permits him to stay at the Caravan Park. Initially planning to leave, Robbo remains after rescuing Raffy Morrison. He struggles with uncovering his past while receiving help from Kat Chapman and others. A search of his possessions uncovers a body, prompting Robbo to halt his investigation.
During a bush trip, Dennis Novak sets fire to Robbo’s cabin; Novak reveals they were criminal partners. Following Novak’s kidnapping of Kat and attempted murder, Robbo kills Novak and buries him. Police suspect Robbo in Novak’s death. After abducting Tori Morgan and attempting escape, Robbo surrenders but later flees with Kat's assistance. Their car crashes; Kat dies alongside her unborn child. Robbo mourns while Ash vows vengeance. With Tori’s help, Robbo hides but is eventually arrested and granted bail.
Near trial's conclusion, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) take Robbo into custody, unveiling his real identity as Ryan Shaw—an AFP officer undercover as Beckett Reid investigating his family’s murder. His cover erased all records of his true life. Sent to Summer Bay for Kat’s protection, he lost memory during the mission. Returning with AFP support, Robbo considers rejoining but decides instead to purchase the local gym.
Robbo forms a relationship with Jasmine Delaney; they become engaged after Tori Morgan asks him to father her child through IVF. Following Tori’s miscarriage and discovery that Jasmine concealed Tori’s second pregnancy attempt, Robbo ends the engagement and departs Summer Bay. He later returns for Tori’s ultrasound; he reconciles with Jasmine and they marry. During their reception, AFP agents escort them to a safe house.
Robbo undergoes hypnotherapy aiming to recover memories about Dylan Carter; after initial hostility toward Alex Neilson, a subsequent session succeeds. Following a car accident requiring surgery, Robbo suffers a hemorrhage and dies despite medical efforts. He later appears in Jasmine's dream.
Jennifer Dutton
Jennifer Dutton, played by Brittany Santariga, made her first appearance on 27 July 2017. Santariga's involvement was announced in June 2017 during production in Palm Beach, New South Wales. Jennifer entered the storyline as a high school pupil who bullied Coco Astoni. She later became romantically linked to Hunter King, creating significant plot developments at Summer Bay High.
Initially, Jennifer torments Coco by mocking an embarrassing nickname and tampering with her possessions. Their rivalry intensifies, culminating in a physical altercation that results in suspensions. Jennifer then manipulates Coco’s eating disorder for her own advantage by insisting on a date with VJ Patterson. This situation strains the friendship between Coco and Raffy Morrison, who stands up to Jennifer’s verbal attacks.
Jennifer’s narrative arcs involve urging Raffy to overindulge in alcohol at a fashion event and suffering a wrist injury during a school activity. She also flirts with Mason Morgan, sharing a brief kiss before he rejects her due to his personal grief. After Hunter King’s breakup, Jennifer offers him support, leading to their relationship, which upsets Olivia Fraser Richards.
At a university party, Jennifer’s father Nick confronts Hunter about her drinking habits and warns him to stay away. Subsequently, Jennifer leaves home and moves in with Hunter but is evicted by Alf Stewart after being caught kissing Hunter. Following their split, Jennifer briefly experiences homelessness before returning to her father and departing Summer Bay.
Beth Ellis
Elizabeth "Beth" Ellis, portrayed by Anneliese Apps, first appeared on 31 August 2017. Apps was cast soon after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. She described Beth as "cheeky," "multi-dimensional," and "quirky," traits she felt resonated with her own character. Beth was introduced as a romantic interest for Mason Morgan (Pledger), with Apps highlighting Beth’s wish to support Mason due to seeing similarities between them.
Beth is initially seen at the hospital overhearing Mason’s frustration over his paralysis. Wearing nursing scrubs as a disguise, she lifts his spirits and they bond while racing in a wheelchair. Beth later confesses she is undergoing treatment for cardiomyopathy and awaiting a heart transplant; her earlier deception was intended to avoid pity from Mason. Their friendship deepens, with Beth encouraging Mason to forgive his brother Brody Morgan for causing the accident that left him paralyzed.
They share moments ticking off items from Beth’s bucket list, such as getting tattoos and visiting a casino. During one outing, Beth faints from breathing difficulties and is rushed back to hospital care. Mason introduces her as his girlfriend to his siblings and meets her parents, Alan (McDonough) and Jackie Ellis (Coopes). Alan disapproves of their relationship and urges Mason to end it, which Beth opposes.
As Beth’s condition worsens, she requires a stent and is prioritized on the transplant waiting list. Mason organizes a beachside lunch where he presents her with a promise ring. Soon after, Beth suffers a fatal arrhythmia and passes away. At her funeral, Mason envisions Beth encouraging him to move on with his life.
Ryder Jackson
Ryder Jackson, brought to life by Lukas Radovich, made his first appearance on 25 October 2017. Radovich secured the role shortly after completing his studies at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, marking his acting debut. Ryder is introduced as the son of Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox) and the grandson of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). His storyline begins with him breaking into the Surf Club and attempting to steal from Hunter King and VJ Patterson, which ultimately reveals his connection to Alf Stewart. His hesitation to provide Quinn’s contact information raises concerns for his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker), who suspects he might have run away.
Willow Harris
Willow Harris (also known as Ranger), portrayed by Sarah Roberts, first appeared on 14 November 2017. Prior to landing this part, Roberts auditioned for the roles of Kat Chapman and Scarlett Snow. Willow is depicted as a strong-willed, independent, and loyal individual who introduces both mischief and complexity to Summer Bay. Roberts describes her character as a "bad girl" whose questionable decisions are driven by a deep loyalty to those she cares about. Willow rapidly emerges as a significant romantic interest for Justin Morgan.
Jasmine Delaney
Jasmine Delaney, played by Sam Frost, debuted on 18 December 2017. Frost’s casting was revealed on 17 July 2017. She auditioned for the role while participating in Hell's Kitchen Australia and secured it after a second round of auditions. Jasmine represents Frost’s first acting role, and she expressed enthusiasm about joining a series she had watched growing up. Despite this, some actors criticized her casting as being primarily a publicity move. Jasmine’s initial plotline centers on a car accident that results in the death of Kat Chapman, portrayed by Pia Miller. Frost characterized Jasmine as "guarded" with an underlying "anxious energy," concealing secrets and a troubled past.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31 January–23 November | Luc Patterson |
|
Luc is the child of Billie Ashford and Mick Jennings, conceived as a result of Mick's assault on Billie. She allows VJ Patterson, her boyfriend, to believe he is her father until their marriage. Luc is born soon after escaping a bushfire. Named in honor of Billie’s deceased brother Luke Ashford, custody disputes arise among relatives. She experiences critical health problems including bowel torsion and septicaemia but recovers following surgery. Mick reappears but ultimately withdraws from Luc’s life; VJ relocates with her to Cyprus. |
| 1 February– | Constable Corelli | Nick Cain | Collaborates with Kat Chapman on an arson investigation and later discovers CCTV footage pertaining to Robbo’s hostage incident. |
| 2 February | Lactation Consultant | Gail Knight | Provides breastfeeding support to Billie Ashford for her newborn daughter. |
| 23 February–1 May | Ambulance Officer | Rob Baird | Responsible for transporting John Palmer and Zac MacGuire to medical facilities following emergencies. |
| 27 February–8 May | Patrick Stanwood | Luke McKenzie | Introduced as the brother of Billie and Martin Ashford, Patrick had faked his death due to PTSD from military service. His mental health challenges strain family relations, particularly concerning Luc’s guardianship, until he eventually pursues treatment. |
| 7 March–15 August | Lena Ascot | Felicity McKay | A university student involved in drug distribution and brief romantic involvements at Salt restaurant. She is hired and subsequently dismissed by Brody Morgan amid his emerging addiction issues, later joining him in rehabilitation. |
| 7 March | Byron | Benjamin Winckle | Socially encourages Olivia Fraser Richards and has conflicts with Hunter King over her. |
| 9 March | Local Woman | Meagan Caratti | Challenges John Palmer regarding fires he caused; defended by his spouse Marilyn. |
| Local Man | James Caitlin | ||
| 13 March–18 April | Jess Kearney | Jess Bush | Engages with Olivia Fraser Richards during academic and social activities. |
| 21 March | Cal Whitman | Craig Scott | A resident displaced by a bushfire ignited by John Palmer; accepts John’s apology and offer of assistance. |
| 22 March, 6 December | Terry Diamond | Rob Flanagan | A restaurant critic who initially disputes with Brody Morgan but later acknowledges his culinary skills. |
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External links
- Cast and characters on the official AU Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database
- Ben Astoni featured on the official AU Home and Away website
- Coco Astoni listed on the official AU Home and Away platform
- Ziggy Astoni presented at the official AU Home and Away portal