Ryder Jackson

Ryder Jackson
Occupation	Fictional character
Years active	2017–2022
Known for	Home and Away

Ryder Jackson is a fictional persona from the Australian television drama Home and Away, brought to life by actor Lukas Radovich. He first appeared on-screen on 25 October 2017 as the previously unknown grandson of the original character Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). Ryder’s mother is Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox), who has been estranged from Alf. When Ryder arrives in Summer Bay, Alf is initially unaware of his existence, but his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) convinces him to allow Ryder to remain. The character is portrayed as a "mischievous" adolescent with a "cocky" and "confident" attitude. Radovich described Ryder as coming from a "broken home." At first, Ryder embodies a "bad boy" image, engaging in criminal acts such as stealing a car that results in Roo being hurt. However, under Alf’s guidance, Ryder begins to reform, with Radovich noting significant character development during his first year on the show.

The writers crafted a social circle for Ryder including Coco Astoni (Anna Cocquerel) and Raffy Morrison (Olivia Deeble), with Ryder developing romantic feelings for Coco that lead to an intermittent relationship. Additionally, he forms a friendship with Ty Anderson (Darius Williams), who is the series' first openly gay character in several years. A storyline involving a same-sex kiss between Ryder and Ty generated debate; Ty kisses Ryder, who does not return the gesture but responds supportively. This plotline was commended for its sensitive portrayal of the subject matter. Ryder exited the series on 5 May 2022.

Casting

The introduction of Ryder's character and Radovich's casting were revealed on 23 October 2017. Radovich landed the role shortly after completing his studies at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, marking his debut acting job. Although he initially thought his audition was unsuccessful, he was eventually cast, with filming commencing in May 2017. Ryder is identified as the son of Quinn Jackson and grandson of Alf Stewart. The actor expressed enthusiasm about the character’s debut after a five-month gap between filming and broadcast left him feeling somewhat uncertain.

Characterisation

Ryder is portrayed as a "mischievous" troublemaker who stirs up "havoc" upon arriving in Summer Bay. Radovich described him as a "troubled youth harboring misguided anger who longs for affection," seeking connection with those around him. The character also exhibits traits of being "confident," "cocky," and possessing a "cheeky nature." According to the show's official website, Ryder combines "bad-boy charm with good looks." Radovich added that while Ryder has a rebellious streak, he also possesses "a heart of gold." Having run away from boarding school, Ryder initially resorts to stealing from others. The actor remarked that once settled in Summer Bay, Ryder begins to find his direction. His grandfather Alf assumes a nurturing role, contributing positively to Ryder's behavioural changes. A New Zealand source described Ryder as "over-confident."

Radovich expressed excitement about portraying Alf’s grandson, noting, "everyone knows who Alf Stewart is so it’s pretty extraordinary." He acknowledged the valuable guidance received from working alongside Meagher and Parker. Despite being six years older than his character, Radovich found playing a student both enjoyable and relatable.

He observed that writers gradually transformed Ryder into a more responsible individual who appreciates his friendships. In an interview with Digital Spy, Radovich explained that Ryder evolved from an unruly youth with little accountability into someone who values his support network. The storyline increasingly revealed Ryder’s vulnerable side, shaping him into "a more mature and well-rounded individual," which the actor found more compelling. He told Inside Soap that although Ryder’s maturity had always been present, it was often concealed beneath humour and playful antics.

Introduction

Ryder's storyline begins with him breaking into the Surf Club and stealing from Hunter King (Scott Lee) and VJ Patterson (Matt Little). When apprehended, he reveals his identity as Alf's grandson but declines to provide Quinn's contact information, leading his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) to suspect he has run away. He also takes money from Alf's wallet and encounters local resident Coco Astoni (Anna Cocquerel). Actor Lukas Radovich described filming these initial theft scenes as "terrifying and overwhelming."

Ryder’s mother Quinn is revealed to be Alf’s long-lost daughter, a result of an affair Alf had with American officer Mary Jackson during his military service. Unaware of Quinn’s existence until now, Alf is confronted with painful memories upon Ryder’s arrival, which the show parallels by initially portraying Alf as unaware of Ryder. Radovich explained that Ryder hails from a "broken home" and is searching for a connection within the Stewart family, as his life with his single mother Quinn lacks stability.

Opting to remain in Summer Bay, Ryder moves in with his estranged relatives. Roo Stewart expresses great enthusiasm about Ryder staying and aims to create a nurturing family atmosphere. In contrast, Alf is hesitant to form a bond, worried that Ryder might return to Quinn. Despite this, Roo maintains hope for developing their relationship. Following a confrontation with Quinn, Ryder’s conduct deteriorates; he steals a car and accidentally injures Roo, who survives but endures significant pain. Later, Ryder and his friend Raffy Morrison (Olivia Deeble) steal a boat and are shocked to discover the corpse of Dennis Novak (Mirko Grillini) on the beach.

Relationship with Coco Astoni

The writers crafted a "love triangle" storyline involving Ryder, Coco, and her close friend Raffy. While Raffy openly admits her feelings for Ryder, Coco conceals her own affection. Despite several near-romantic moments between Ryder and Coco, Coco’s anxiety keeps their relationship platonic. Ryder tries to win Coco over, who is preoccupied with concerns about her mother Maggie Astoni’s battle with cancer. Encouraged by Raffy to pursue Ryder, Coco eventually kisses him. Actress Anna Cocquerel explained that Coco wants to demonstrate her feelings, which surprises Ryder but is well received by him. With Raffy’s encouragement and the support of her protective family, Coco prepares for a first date with Ryder. Cocquerel described Ryder as "a little irresponsible but kind and funny," qualities that attract Coco. However, Coco’s anxiety negatively affects their initial date.

After returning from a trip, Coco frequently mentions a friend named Jeremy, which creates tension between her and Ryder. Following a short breakup, they reconcile and arrange another date. Concerned about their relationship, Coco’s father Ben Astoni seeks advice from Alf and Roo for Ryder. Roo shares her personal experience with pregnancy to help both young people understand the responsibilities involved in their relationship.

Same-sex kiss

The character became central to the program's first LGBTQ+ narrative in nearly a decade, generating considerable discussion. Ryder shared a same-sex kiss with Ty Anderson (Darius Williams), which sparked conversations across social media platforms like Facebook. The general public reaction was predominantly favorable, with commendations directed at the show for embracing greater inclusivity. This was particularly significant given that earlier same-sex kiss scenes, such as the one between Charlie Buckton and Joey Collins in 2009, had been removed from broadcast. Radovich expressed excitement about his involvement in Ty’s storyline, highlighting the importance of portraying gay narratives that audiences had long sought. Since filming occurs about six months prior to airing, there was opportunity to anticipate viewer responses.

Williams revealed that ongoing collaboration took place with writers, directors, and Radovich to ensure an authentic depiction before shooting the kiss scene. Production treated the moment like any other, rehearsing without the kiss until the final take. He reported receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from viewers after the episode aired.

The kiss occurs after Ty develops feelings for Ryder despite being in a relationship with their mutual friend Raffy. Ty shares personal music with Ryder, creating a private connection between them. Following a misunderstanding, Ty surprises Ryder with a kiss; although Ryder pulls away, he remains supportive of Ty. Audiences praised Ryder’s accepting attitude toward Ty’s sexuality. The storyline progresses with Ryder encouraging Ty to embrace his identity, though an embarrassed Ty later lashes out at him. Radovich explained that Ryder’s shock stemmed mainly from misinterpreting Ty’s emotions and having attempted to match him with Raffy. He emphasized Ryder’s intention to support Ty—who has a challenging foster care history—while also wanting to protect Raffy. Radovich concluded that this plotline underscored Ryder’s emotional growth and maturity throughout the series.

Departure

In December 2021, Catie Powers of New Idea reported rumors of Radovich’s exit from Home and Away after he was photographed beneath a "Bon Voyage" banner at a cast celebration. Subsequently, Radovich’s online resume confirmed he had completed filming on the show. In March 2022, Shauna Bannon Ward from RSVPLive.ie also verified his forthcoming departure. Ryder’s final appearance was broadcast on 5 May 2022. His exit storyline began with Ryder confiding in Dean Thompson about plans to leave Summer Bay to pursue training as a casino croupier and accept a cruise ship job. Despite concerns regarding his family’s feelings, Dean reassured him they would want him to follow his happiness. Ryder secured a mixologist position aboard the cruise ship with potential croupier training opportunities. After his departure episode aired, Radovich expressed gratitude for his five-year tenure, thanking director Tony Gardiner and fans for their ongoing support.

Reception

Johnathon Hughes from the Radio Times characterized Ryder as a "delinquent dude" and Quinn's "rebellious offspring," describing him as a "cocky" troublemaker. Zoe Burrell of New Idea observed that Ryder's introduction unsettled the iconic Stewart family dynamic, referring to him as a "long-lost member" and "troubled teen" who stirred conflict. A reporter for What's on TV labeled Ryder and Ty’s relationship an "annoying bromance." Seth Adamson of TV Soap noted that Ryder and Coco's romance was intense and volatile from its inception, likening Ryder’s arrival to Quinn’s debut 22 years prior. In November 2021, three critics from The West Australian placed Ryder 47th in their "Top 50 heroes we love and villains we hate" ranking for Home and Away. They described him as confident, cheeky, and cocky—a troubled youth revealed as Alf's grandson—highlighting his most prominent storyline involving unrequited romantic feelings from his best friend, marking the show’s first gay storyline in nine years.

External links

• Ryder Jackson at the official AU Home and Away website