Goodbye to the legendary Ray Meagher: The iconic Home and Away star officially retires from acting in October 2025

For millions of Australians, and countless international fans, Home and Away has always meant one thing: Alf Stewart. His iconic catchphrases, his gruff warmth, and his unwavering presence in Summer Bay made Ray Meagher not just an actor, but a national treasure. And now, after nearly four decades of embodying the character that shaped the show’s identity, the news fans always dreaded has finally arrived: Ray Meagher has officially retired from acting as of October 2025.

The announcement has sent shockwaves across both the entertainment industry and the fan community. For many, it feels almost unthinkable that Home and Away will continue without the steady anchor of Alf. Since 1988, Meagher has been the face of the show—appearing in more episodes than any other cast member, holding the Guinness World Record for the longest-serving actor in an Australian soap opera, and becoming a household name far beyond the nation’s borders.

What makes this farewell particularly emotional is the timing. At 81 years old, Ray has long hinted at the possibility of stepping back, but few believed he would truly walk away. Insiders say the decision has been in the works for months, with scriptwriters preparing a storyline worthy of his legacy. Yet, the official confirmation still feels like a gut punch to loyal viewers.

So what happens next?

According to early reports, Ray’s retirement doesn’t mean Alf will be abruptly written off. Producers are said to be carefully crafting an exit that honours the character’s history while leaving the door slightly ajar—just in case Ray ever decides to make a special guest return. Whether this means Alf sails off into the sunset, or takes a quieter role behind the scenes in Summer Bay, remains tightly under wraps.

But one thing is clear: the end of an era has arrived.

Industry colleagues have already begun paying tribute. Former castmates describe Ray as the heart of the set, a mentor to younger actors, and a true professional whose dedication never wavered. Fans have flooded social media with emotional posts, sharing favourite Alf Stewart moments and begging the producers not to “kill him off.”

Ray himself, always humble, has kept his statement brief. “It’s been an incredible journey,” he said in a recent interview. “Playing Alf has been the privilege of a lifetime, but now it’s time for me to spend more time with my family and enjoy the next chapter.”

Still, questions linger: Can Home and Away survive without its most iconic star? Will fans continue to tune in, or will the show lose part of its soul with Ray’s departure?

One thing is certain—October 2025 will be remembered as the month television history changed forever.

Because when you say goodbye to Ray Meagher, you’re not just saying goodbye to an actor. You’re saying farewell to a legend who defined Australian television for nearly four decades.