Ziggy Astoni
Ziggy Astoni | |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Fictional character |
| Years active | 2017–present |
| Known for | Home and Away |
Ziggy Astoni is a character created for the Australian soap opera Home and Away, brought to life by actress Sophie Dillman. Before landing this role, Dillman worked as a day surgery nurse and was cast shortly before embarking on a vacation. She joined the series alongside actors portraying her on-screen parents Ben Astoni and Maggie Astoni, as well as her sister Coco Astoni, forming the first complete nuclear family introduced to the show in 17 years. Ziggy made her first appearance on 20 June 2017, characterized by her spirited, rebellious nature and strong self-assurance. The Astoni family transitioned from urban life to Summer Bay, quickly becoming part of the local community.
Ziggy’s narrative featured a prominent romantic storyline with Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), complicated by his struggle with drug addiction and opposition from her father, Ben. This plotline included Ziggy being kidnapped by Brody’s drug dealer, addressing serious societal concerns. Their clandestine relationship ended after Ben demanded Ziggy leave home, resulting in their separation. The writers also tackled the issue of drink spiking through Ziggy’s ordeal, which was connected to her family’s history of trauma related to her mother’s PTSD. Ziggy and Brody briefly reconciled before tension arose due to a love triangle involving an ex-boyfriend.
In 2018, following her mother’s cancer diagnosis, Ziggy and Brody got engaged, with their wedding filmed at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Their marriage encountered difficulties such as challenges living together and Brody growing closer to chef Simone Bedford (Emily Eskell). Suspecting infidelity, Ziggy considered starting a family to salvage their relationship, which ultimately ended when she uncovered Brody’s affair. Dillman described these emotionally demanding scenes as significant for viewers.
Later, Ziggy entered into a relationship with Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor), bonding over mutual interests including car rallies. Their romance was tested when Ziggy received an opportunity to trial as a pit crew mechanic that required leaving Summer Bay. The couple broke up in 2020 after Dean’s involvement in concealing a murder came to light.
Ziggy subsequently dated Tane Parata (Ethan Browne), but after Dean suffered serious injuries in 2021, she ended things with Tane to reunite with Dean, whom O’Connor referred to as her soulmate. In late 2022, Ziggy faced an unplanned pregnancy alongside a surfing sponsorship offer, highlighting the challenges women encounter balancing professional sports careers with motherhood. She gave birth to their daughter in January 2023.
Both Dillman and O’Connor departed from Home and Away in early 2023 but returned briefly in March 2025 for a storyline set in Queensland. Dillman’s performance earned nominations for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent, Logie Award for Most Popular Actress, and Best Daytime Star at the UK’s Inside Soap Awards.
Casting
On 4 June 2017, Karlie Rutherford of The Daily Telegraph announced that Sophie Dillman had joined Home and Away as part of the newly introduced Astoni family, alongside Rohan Nichol, Kestie Morassi, and Anna Cocquerel. The actors were seen filming their initial scenes earlier that year. Having previously worked as a day surgery nurse, Dillman relocated to Sydney to pursue acting and immediately felt a strong connection to the character of Ziggy. She received the casting news just days before a planned trip to Vietnam. The Astoni family represented the first nuclear family introduced on the show in 17 years and was promoted through a trailer highlighting their arrival in Summer Bay. Dillman made her debut as Ziggy on 20 June 2017.
Characterisation and introduction
Prior to Ziggy’s debut, a press statement portrayed her as a "spirited and passionate 19-year-old" who frequently feels like an outsider within her family, often compelled to rebel and act out. According to the show’s official page on 7plus, Ziggy is described as "a high school dropout juggling casual employment" and a "determined young woman who refuses to accept no for an answer." Karlie Rutherford from The Daily Telegraph labeled her a "wild child" and a "defiant teenager." TVNZ noted that Ziggy possesses a sharp sense of humor, tends to lash out at times, yet harbors a deep love for her family, particularly her father. Actress Sophie Dillman observed parallels between herself and Ziggy, admiring the character’s boldness and self-assurance, although Dillman does not share Ziggy’s enthusiasm for surfing or mechanical work. Dillman felt that after dedicating much effort in the garage with limited opportunities for surfing or socializing, Ziggy deserved a chance to "release some tension" in 2021.
Ziggy was introduced as the first member of the Astoni family, making an entrance by bursting into a public restroom and requesting Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood) to assist in hiding her. Dillman explained that Ziggy was escaping a problem in the city and met Brody during a moment of vulnerability. Brody conceals her in his vehicle while her father Ben Astoni (Nichol) searches for her. Upon returning home, Ben reprimands Ziggy for stealing a car and running away. When her mother Maggie Astoni (Morassi) and sister Coco Astoni (Cocquerel) arrive, it is revealed that Coco has been suspended from school, underscoring the rebellious nature within the family. Dillman characterized them as an ordinary family striving to cope with two challenging children.
The family embarks on a trip away from urban life to Summer Bay, but their vehicle breaks down, necessitating an extended stay. Ziggy encounters Brody again at the Surf Club but declines his offer to give her a tour. While residing at the caravan park, she steals from locals and receives a warning from law enforcement. Shortly after, Ben and Maggie decide to relocate their family permanently when Maggie secures employment at the local high school and Ben transitions careers. Ziggy resists the move and briefly returns to the city, where she discovers her boyfriend Jarrod McGregor (Joel Davies) is unfaithful before ultimately returning to Summer Bay.
Relationship with Brody Morgan
In the Astoni family trailer, Ziggy was presented as a potential romantic partner for Brody. The two develop a connection culminating in a kiss; however, Ben intervenes upon discovering Brody’s struggle with drug addiction. This addiction affects Ziggy directly when she is kidnapped by Brody’s dealer, William Zannis, who uses her as leverage against Brody. Following a dramatic police and Robbo rescue, Ben forbids Ziggy from seeing Brody. Despite this, she continues their relationship in secret, which intensifies familial conflicts when Justin uncovers them together. Eventually, Ben finds proof of their involvement, leading to confrontation and their eventual breakup.
Drink spiking
Ziggy’s narrative addressed the critical topic of drink spiking. After feeling guilty over a previous school break-in that caused her withdrawal from others, she visits a city bar where Curtis spikes her drink. Disoriented and vulnerable, she narrowly escapes assault thanks to Brody’s timely intervention. The ordeal causes strain in her relationships, especially when Ben misinterprets the circumstances and confronts Brody. Subsequently, Ziggy opens up to Maggie about the trauma she experienced and the PTSD resulting from this incident.
Marriage to Brody Morgan
Toward the end of 2017, Ziggy and Brody reignite their relationship, gaining Ben's cautious approval. A complicated love triangle develops when Ziggy's former boyfriend Jared reenters the picture; however, she decisively commits to Brody. Their engagement is sparked after Ziggy reads an emotional letter from Maggie, who fears missing her daughter's wedding. Despite initial uncertainties and familial discord, they wed in June 2018 in a ceremony held at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which was widely admired for its elegance.
Following their marriage, challenges arise as Brody moves in with the Astonis, creating tension due to limited time spent together and conflicting visions for the future. Ziggy reacts by drinking with Dean Thompson, which frustrates Brody. The introduction of Simone Bedford further complicates matters; Simone flirts with Brody at Salt restaurant, increasing Ziggy’s suspicions. When Simone and Brody’s affair comes to light, Ziggy is devastated and returns to live with her parents. Although efforts are made to repair their marriage, including confronting Brody about his feelings for Simone, the relationship ultimately dissolves.
Relationship with Dean Thompson
After her divorce, Ziggy develops a romantic connection with Dean Thompson. On her 21st birthday, Dean lifts her spirits through thoughtful acts culminating in a kiss, though Ziggy initially hesitates. Her partying intensifies until Dean steps in during an altercation with another man who later attacks Dean while defending her—this incident serves as a pivotal moment for Ziggy.
Their bond strengthens during their joint participation in the Bush Bomb Rally in Parachilna, South Australia, where they find common ground through shared experiences and values. Despite some initial doubts upon returning to Summer Bay, they establish a steady relationship embraced by their families. However, tension arises when Ziggy discovers unexplained cash in Dean’s caravan connected to his estranged father.
Ziggy faces career prospects as a pit crew mechanic but worries about leaving Dean behind. After some resistance and a brief breakup caused by communication breakdowns regarding her job offer, they reunite. Off-screen, Dillman and O'Connor began dating, enhancing their on-screen rapport.
Their relationship ends in September 2020 when Ziggy uncovers Dean’s involvement in concealing Ross Nixon's murder. Struggling between loyalty and ethics, Ziggy feels betrayed and ultimately ends things with Dean.
Paternity doubts
The arrival of Marco Astoni brings hidden family secrets to light when it is revealed he had a one-night encounter with Maggie during a separation from Ben. Marco uses this knowledge to blackmail Maggie, leading Ziggy to suspect he might be her biological father based on the timing. Feeling hurt and betrayed by Maggie’s concealment, Ziggy consents to a paternity test that confirms Ben as her father. Though the Astoni family experiences significant strain, they remain united amid the upheaval.
Relationship with Tane Parata
Ziggy starts dating Tane Parata after he takes a job at the garage. Initially feeling diminished due to his low-status role there, Tane becomes involved in illegal activities which Ziggy uncovers. Nevertheless, they share strong chemistry and mutual encouragement. Their relationship signifies growth for both: Tane strives for legitimacy while Ziggy embraces newfound happiness following previous hardships.
Tane suggests moving in together; although hesitant at first because of fears of rushing things and past trauma, Ziggy eventually agrees after receiving advice from friends. The couple appears promising until the 2021 season finale when Dean suffers a serious car accident, prompting Ziggy to break up with Tane and reunite with Dean.
Reconciliation with Dean Thompson and Motherhood
After Dean’s accident, Ziggy reconnects with him, acknowledging the strong bond they share despite previous difficulties. Supporting her injured partner throughout his rehabilitation challenges her endurance and patience as she works closely with healthcare providers.
In late 2022, Ziggy learns she is expecting a child while simultaneously pursuing a professional surfing sponsorship. This situation compels her to make a challenging decision between advancing her career and embracing motherhood. Her choice to prioritize pregnancy over the sponsorship underscores broader issues faced by women striving to balance career goals with family responsibilities.
Their daughter, Izzy Thompson, arrives in January 2023 amid ongoing family tensions involving Dean’s mother, Karen. The couple manages the demands of new parenthood alongside navigating complex family dynamics.
Departure and Return
Early in 2023, actors Sophie Dillman (Ziggy) and Patrick O'Connor (Dean) announced their exit from Home and Away, aiming to explore opportunities abroad after a substantial period on the series. Their characters leave by moving to Queensland for familial reasons.
In October 2024, it was revealed that both performers would reprise their roles for a storyline set to air in 2025, filmed on location in the Whitsundays. This narrative centers on conflicts involving Dean’s sister Mackenzie Booth and her partner Levi Fowler, culminating in a kidnapping scenario resolved through collaboration between Dean and Levi. Since then, fans have expressed strong interest in seeing the couple return on a more permanent basis.
Reception
Sophie Dillman earned nominations for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent (2018), Inside Soap Awards Best Daytime Star (2019), and Logie Award for Most Popular Actress (2022) for her depiction of Ziggy Astoni.
Critics have commended Ziggy as a fiercely devoted character who has transformed from a rebellious youth into one of Summer Bay’s most cherished personalities. Her intricate story arcs—including romantic entanglements, struggles with addiction aftermath, personal traumas such as drink spiking, marital issues, revelations about paternity, career obstacles, and motherhood—have been praised for their realism and emotional complexity.
Reviewers highlight Dillman’s exceptional performances during critical scenes involving family separations and relationship turmoil while recognizing that some plots employ familiar soap opera conventions executed with compelling depth. Audience surveys consistently place Ziggy among the most popular characters, reflecting strong viewer connection fueled by her relatable challenges and development within themes of personal strength amid adversity relevant to the series’ core narrative.