In the world of television, joining a long-running soap like Home and Away can be as daunting as it is exciting. For newcomers, stepping into the sun-soaked streets of Summer Bay—where some actors have been fixtures for decades—can feel overwhelming. But behind the scenes, it turns out that the veterans of the show have created a culture of support, kindness, and encouragement that makes all the difference.
Recently, several rising stars of Home and Away have opened up about the warm welcome they received from the show’s most iconic cast members, highlighting how the series’ veterans go out of their way to make new actors feel right at home. Their heartfelt stories offer a glimpse into the genuine camaraderie that fuels one of Australia’s most beloved soaps.
“They made me feel like I’d been there for years”
For many new cast members, joining a show with a legacy like Home and Away is a dream come true. But that dream often comes with pressure: the fear of not fitting in, of not living up to the high standard set by the cast and crew, or of being just another short-lived character. Thankfully, that pressure is often eased by the kindness of those who’ve walked the path before.
One recent addition to the cast shared in an interview:
“From the moment I arrived on set, people like Emily Symons (Marilyn) and Ray Meagher (Alf) were just so welcoming. They made me feel like I’d been there for years. It’s a little intimidating at first, but they really went out of their way to say hello, offer advice, and just talk to me like I was already part of the family.”
Ray Meagher: A guiding hand
Ray Meagher, who has played the iconic Alf Stewart since 1988, is often described as the heart and soul of Home and Away. His legendary one-liners and no-nonsense attitude on screen are a sharp contrast to his gentle, nurturing presence behind the scenes.
Newer actors often describe Ray as someone who takes the time to offer quiet encouragement, whether it’s offering a few lines of wisdom during a break or helping with scene rehearsals.
“He’s incredibly supportive,” said one younger actor. “Even just knowing he’s in your corner makes a huge difference. He’s the kind of person who’ll remember your name on day one and ask how you’re settling in.”
Emily Symons: Creating a caring atmosphere
Another frequently mentioned name is Emily Symons, who has portrayed Marilyn Chambers across several decades. Known for her warmth and infectious energy, Symons is said to make a particular effort to engage with new arrivals.
“She’s the kind of person who’ll check in with you between scenes and offer a pep talk before a difficult take,” shared a recent co-star. “There’s something about her presence that makes you feel calm. She’s really kind and so positive—it rubs off on everyone.”
Behind the scenes: Mentorship and friendship
Beyond casual kindness, several of Home and Away’s senior cast members are praised for acting as informal mentors to newcomers. From helping them understand the show’s fast-paced production schedule to giving tips on memorizing long scripts, these behind-the-scenes interactions help build confidence and a sense of belonging.
“You’re not just thrown in and expected to sink or swim,” said a rising actress. “There’s this quiet mentorship culture. Someone will always have your back—whether it’s a fellow cast member, a director, or a script assistant.”
The ripple effect of kindness
Interestingly, this culture of kindness is self-sustaining. As newer actors become more established, they begin offering the same warmth and support to those who follow them. It’s part of what makes Home and Away feel like more than just a job—it’s a community.
“Everyone remembers how scary it was on their first day,” one actor noted. “So we make it a point to be that kind face, that helping hand, just like someone was for us.”
Why it matters
With such a fast turnover of guest characters, newcomers are constantly joining the Home and Away cast. The consistent support from legends of the show is what maintains its strong on-set culture, ensuring that even the newest faces can thrive and deliver their best performances.
In an industry often known for its competitiveness, Home and Away stands out for its generational kindness. The legacy isn’t just in the episodes aired or the characters created—but in the human connections made behind the scenes.
As one cast member simply put it:
“They didn’t have to be so welcoming. But they were. And that’s something I’ll never forget.”
