Leah Patterson-Baker

Last updated

Leah Patterson
Home and Away character
Leah Patterson-Baker.JPG
Portrayed by Ada Nicodemou
Duration2000–present
First appearance22 March 2000 (2000-03-22)
Classification Present; regular
Introduced byJohn Holmes
Book appearancesHome & Away: Mayday
In-universe information
Other namesLeah Poulos
(maiden name)
Leah Patterson-Baker (second married name)
OccupationChef and co-owner of the Diner
Youth worker
Father Theo Poulos
Mother Helen Poulos
Brothers
Husband
Sons VJ Patterson
Stepsons Ryan Baker
Uncles Con Poulos
Nephews Theo Poulos
First cousins Christina Poulos
Effie
Other relatives Petro Poulos

Leah Patterson (also Poulos and Patterson-Baker) is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away , played by Ada Nicodemou. She made her screen debut during the episode broadcast on 22 March 2000. Leah is one of the longest featured characters in the serial's history and has been involved in storylines including the deaths of her husbands, her many relationships, surrogacy, suffering anxiety and the victim of racism. Nicodemou took a temporary break from Home and Away in late 2012, following the birth of her first child. She returned from her break on 19 June 2013. [1]

Contents

Casting

In 1999, Nicodemou was approached by the producers of Home and Away with an offer of a six-month contract. Nicodemou was not required to audition and began filming in November that year. Before Leah appeared on-screen, Nicodemou had already been offered an extension to her contract. [2] She had already spent four years in the cast of television programme Heartbreak High . Nicodemou took this into account when she accepted the role, only intending to remain with Home and Away for the duration of her six-month contract. [3] However, she later decided to stay in the role because she "almost immediately fell in love with the show and the people". [4] Ten years later, Nicodemou said was happy to carry on portraying Leah for the foreseeable future. She explained the reason behind her longevity was because Leah was "still evolving", which kept the role enjoyable. [3]

Nicodemou is one of the longest serving cast members of Home and Away. [3]

Development

Introduction

Leah first appeared in Home and Away during the episode airing on 22 March 2000. Upon her introduction, she was described as "a girl with a big heart, a big secret and a big future that was all hers." In Nicodemou's first interview about the role, she remained secretive about plans for the character, but said Leah has "a big secret" and arrives in Summer Bay alone. [2] Leah was given links within the serial almost immediately. Leah takes a job as a chef at the local diner and moves into a house with Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten) and Tom Nash (Graeme Squires). However, Leah "quickly realises" that her secrets will not remain her own for long because Summer Bay is a "little town". Producers decided to give Leah a "huge and juicy love story" with Vinnie, this was to help Leah settle into the serial more quickly. [2]

Characterisation

I really love Leah. I've always said she's the type of person I'd love to have as a friend - because she allows me to play so many different areas, from comedy to drama - and also because she's one of the few single-parent characters in Australian drama. She's someone a lot of people can relate to because she's just getting on with life and dealing with problems like running a business and bringing up a son. I think she's better doing that than if everything went her way.

— Ada Nicodemou on Leah. [5]

Yahoo!7 describe Leah as "a single mother who has a strong work ethic and stands up for what she believes in." [6] "Leah has a confidence about her that makes her shine. She's easy going and fun loving." [7] Also adding: "She's passionate about life and will cry at the smallest injustice and boy, can she talk! But she is also a good listener and she will always provide a shoulder to lean on." [7] Soap opera reporting website Holy Soap describe Leah as being: "Fun, confident and passionate, Leah is a big talker and a great listener." [8] They have also observed her as being "especially unlucky in love". [9] The Channel Seven make-up department cut and colour Nicodemou's hair for Leah's on-screen appearance. [10] She has also admitted that she has not control over the amount of make-up the stylists apply to get her into costume. [11]

In 2009, Leah struggles with the pressures of life. Nicodemou said she enjoyed portraying Leah's struggle as fights to cope with "work, her son and herself". She said it makes Leah "a real character and makes her challenging to play". [5] In 2011, Nicodemou said that she would like Leah to act out of character and become evil for a couple of episodes and have a nervous breakdown. [12]

Storyline development

Leah and Vinnie decide to marry. Nicodemou and Kwanten were permitted to choose their own wedding attire for the wedding episodes. Nicodemou's choice of dress caused her problems while filming, because of its tight fit. After a two-week shoot in the same attire, Nicodemou revealed that she sustained bruising on her ribs from where the dress' wear. [13] Nicodemou said that she loved Leah and Vinnie being together and said their wedding was a personal favourite scene. She also revealed that she had good chemistry with Kwanten himself, which made her enjoy the pairing more. [14] In 2011, Nicodemou said that her favourite relationship that Leah has had was with Vinnie. [15]

Leah marries Dan Baker (Tim Campbell). Campbell later quit the series and producers were faced with the dilemma of how to write Dan out of the serial. Dan and Leah had strong chemistry on-screen, which was popular with viewers. Producers decided to spare the "viewers' moral sensibilities" and write Dan out while he was off-screen. [16] The storyline saw Dan die in an abseiling accident while in the US. Campbell said he "teared up" while watching the funeral scenes because he felt personally responsible because he decided to leave. He also said the only "plausible exits" for Dan were to be either killed off or have Dan being unfaithful to Leah. [16]

In early 2009 Nicodemou revealed that Leah would have a new relationship. Leah starts dating Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), Nicodemou said it is good for her and it was nice to see her "thinking of herself for a while". Though she noted that Leah stays true to herself and faces the realism of life and the problems she encounters. Nicodemou stated that it is more important for Leah do deal with that side of her life, "rather than just part of a relationship". [5]

In 2010, the serial embarked on a racism storyline which saw Leah go through a series of changes. Nicodemou claimed she was interested in the storyline because it was different from anything she had done previously, she also revealed that she was pleased they had decided to deal with the issue because she could relate to the issue. [17] Nicodemou said that she was bullied for her ethnic background as a child, so had first hand experience when it came to portraying the scenes. [18] The storyline progresses on-screen as Leah's new love interest Hazem Kassir (Ben Kermode) is attacked in a racism riot at the diner, where Leah works, resulting in it being set on fire and burnt down. Speaking to TV Week Nicomedou discussed the impact on Leah stating: "The anxiety makes [Leah] question her job at the Diner and a whole range of stuff. Basically, she doesn't want to leave her house and her friends are really worried about her." [17] The result is Leah's change in persona, of this Nicodemou added that viewers would see "a really broken Leah. She's usually full of heart and spirit. She's always been a real fighter" but the ordeal strips everything away from her and she cannot even cope with looking after VJ. [17] Leah's battle with depression

Relationship with Elijah Johnson

Elijah Johnson, played by Jay Laga'aia (pictured), became a new love interest for Leah following his introduction. Jay Laga'aia.jpg
Elijah Johnson, played by Jay Laga'aia (pictured), became a new love interest for Leah following his introduction.

In November 2009, it was announced that Jay Laga'aia had been cast into the serial to play Elijah Johnson, a new local reverend and a new potential love interest for Leah. [19] Nicodemou expressed her delight over Leah's romance with Elijah when she started ji jitsui classes to build her confidence. Speaking to Sunrise she stated: "There's a whole lot of love in the Bay and I get a love interest. It's nice and it's really fun and happy and comedy - a lot of warm and fuzzy moments. It's Jay Laga'aia and I'm loving working with him as well. It's all happy times ahead. We're moving away from the darker storylines into lighter stuff." [20] When their relationship ends, Leah begins dating Robert Robertson (Socratis Otto), however, Nicodemou said that she believed that Leah was still in love with Elijah. [14]

However, Elijah later returns to Summer Bay following time in Africa. He arrives with a new wife Grace Johnson (Clare Chihambakwe) whom he has married to help her ill son, Thabo Manthenga (Joshua Mbakwe) receive treatment. Leah is "very upset" because she was looking forward to seeing him again and "exploring her feelings for him". [21] Elijah being married comes "out of the blue" for Leah as she "definitely didn't think he would get married". Nicodemou insisted that Leah and Eljiah would not be reconciling their relationship. While Leah "fell very hard" and formed a life and future with Elijah, she would never take him back as a married man. Eljah "hurt her too many times" and VJ was also caught up in the heartbreak, so she would do "anything to protect her son from getting hurt" again. [21]

Relationship with Miles Copeland

In 2011, Leah dates Miles Copeland, played by Josh Quong Tart (pictured). Josh Quong Tart.jpg
In 2011, Leah dates Miles Copeland, played by Josh Quong Tart (pictured).

In January 2011, Josh Quong Tart revealed his character, Miles Copeland, was set to have a new love interest with someone who may live in Summer Bay. Quong Tart said Miles is "more surprised than anyone that it happens." [22] While Nicodemou revealed that Leah would fall in love with someone new, rather than Elijah again. [15] Nicodemou explained that Leah and Miles have tried to get together in the past, but the timing has never been right for them. [23] However, Miles has always been there for Leah and is regarded as a father figure to VJ. [23] The actress later told RTÉ TEN that she thinks Miles and Leah are well suited and hoped they find happiness with each other. [24] She explained "They have been great friends for a long time and I think it's a great start to a relationship." [24] Miles and Leah discuss their situation and Leah decides to take the first step and kisses Miles to see if they have any chemistry. [23] Nicodemou said Leah is worried about the decision for them to take their relationship further, but she realises that she and Miles do have chemistry and they begin dating. [24]

In August 2011, Leah discovers she is pregnant. [25] Digital Spy reported Leah is "left stunned" by the positive pregnancy test result. [25] Of Leah learning she is pregnant, Nicodemou explained, "At first, she doesn't know she's pregnant - she's just hormonal and being a bitch to Miles and needs time to herself. When she does realise she's pregnant, she doesn't want it. That might be an unpopular choice for most people and it can be hard to understand where Leah is coming from, but she doesn't want to be put in that situation at all. She's not happy about being pregnant." [25] Leah realises that she does not want a baby as she previously had a miscarriage after struggling to fall pregnant. Leah took that badly and it made her decide not to have children again. [25] Nicodemou said the impact the storyline would have on Miles and Leah is interesting and things become more serious for them. [25] A week later it was announced Miles would propose to Leah in a bid to solidify their relationship. [26] Leah is surprised by the proposal, which occurs at the pier, and she is left to make a decision over her future with Miles. Nicodemou said Leah is not thinking about marriage at that stage of their relationship. [26] Leah later suffers a miscarriage and blames Miles for convincing her to keep the baby.

Leah also feels guilty for initially suggesting she have an abortion. Nicodemou told TV Week that Leah believes that she should set Miles free because she does not want him to miss out on being a father again. Miles has a "total shock" when Leah gives him an ultimatum. She also sees ending their relationship as an "easy option" rather than dealing with her "guilt and grief". [27] Quong-Tart later announced his departure from the serial, meaning that Leah and Miles may not have a future together. [28]

Storylines

After running away from her wedding to Ted Simos (Harry Pavlidis), Leah is hitchhiking when she is picked up by Vinnie Patterson, who takes her to Summer Bay. They start a relationship, marry, and have a son called VJ (Felix Dean), they later find out VJ is deaf. Vinnie's father Ralph (Alan Cinis) scams him, he is convicted and sent to prison. Whilst in prison Vinnie dies leaving Leah to cope alone. Leah later finds out Vinnie is alive and on witness protection. Leah's brother Alex (Danny Raco) also comes to live with her. Leah then begins a relationship with Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin), they remain together in a good relationship. Leah then acts as a surrogate mother for Sally, giving birth to Pippa Saunders (Mia Fitzpatrick), but when she hands the child over to Sally, Jesse cannot deal with it and ends their relationship. She later dates Peter Baker (Nicholas Bishop), then his brother Dan. They later marry, when they plan to emigrate to America Dan heads out first to search for a perfect home for their family and to start his new job. Whilst abseiling Dan has a tragic accident and dies off-screen, leaving Leah devastated again. Leah begins a new relationship with Hazem Kassir but it is cut short when he is accused of being a terrorist and is severely beaten up by racist drunks who set the diner alight. Hazem is hospitalized and later transferred to another hospital in the city. Leah becomes depressed and scared to leave her house because of her fear. Her friends rally around her and help her through. She meets Elijah and begins a relationship with him and they become engaged.

When Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) is shot dead by Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys), Darryl Braxton (Steve Peacocke) struggles to get over her and begins drinking. During this time Leah feels that she needs to help Brax and so she does. Leah overhears Geoffrey King (Geoff Morrell) talking to Brax saying he owes King money. Leah gets in contact with King and gives him the money that Brax owes him in exchange for leaving Brax alone. After this Brax finds out and tells Leah that he doesn't owe King any money and that he was just bluffing. So Brax feels bad that he owes Leah money so he says to her that he will pay her back when he gets the money. To pay her back, Brax begins to cage fight and Leah finds out and is unhappy but Brax continues to fight until he gives her all the money. During this, time Leah helps him when he gets beat up and while helping him she starts to fall for him. Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) sees this and talks to Leah about it and Leah admits to Roo that she has feelings for Brax. Leah know that she should move on so she eventually joins an online dating site and goes out with a guy but finds him boring. She and her son VJ left Summer Bay after Adam Sharpe's son Jamie threatened VJ and didn't say goodbye to anyone. Months later, she and VJ return to Summer Bay, only to be greeted with a broken window in her home and heard a sound and grabbed a frying pan and saw it was Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway), Zac and Natalie's housemate and apologized for scaring him, but he revealed that he was just going to see someone. Kyle later moved out and Casey's girlfriend Tamara Kingsley moved in, hoping to get her memories back.

Most of the members of the Bay get on a bus and head to the location where Phoebe Nicholson will perform. However, on the way there Sophie (heading towards the Bay with Nate) tries to get out of the car and Nate swerves to avoid crashing into the bus. The bus rolls down a hill and Leah is thrown out of the bus and is the last person found. She is quickly transferred to a hospital in the city, after not waking up. VJ is told that she can not breathe on her own and most likely will not wake. VJ then tells Zac that he will move in with his grandmother so he could be close to his mum, but just as they are about to move out, Leah wakes up.

Leah starts to act strangely and confides in Nate about her experience in hospital. She is then diagnosed with an aneurysm and needs surgery to fix it, but she refuses to as she doesn't want to put her family in anymore turmoil. She then runs away into the bush and falls. The bay residents search for her and find her unconscious. She then decides to have the surgery. During surgery, some complications occur and she goes into cardiac arrest. The brain surgeon, Sean Gleeson feels bad and beats himself up for it, but Hannah Wilson reassures him that it wasn't his fault. Leah manages to survive the surgery. Zac then proposes to Leah with a romantic gesture on the beach in front of everyone. She says no, but VJ convinces her to marry him and she then proposes to him at home and they become engaged.

During the wedding ceremony, Zac's ex-girlfriend Charlotte King (Erika Heynatz) threatens to reveal everyone's secrets. Leah supports Zac when he becomes prime suspect in Charlotte's murder, and feuds with Senior Constable Kat Chapman (Pia Miller), who sides with Detective Dylan Carter (Jeremy Lindsay Taylor). Leah and Zac's marriage ends after he has an affair with his publisher Samantha Webster (Cheree Cassidy). Zac and Leah divorce and Zac moves to Vietnam, with his niece Evelyn MacGuire (Philippa Northeast).

Vita Nova Kidnapping and Breakdown

After Leah and Justin win a trip away they are kidnapped by Vita Nova and are dumped in an abandoned factory used by the cult and they are later rescued from a Vita Nova stronghold in the middle of nowhere, Justin fights for his life as Leah stays by his side. When Justin almost dies he sees Leah at his funeral and it scares him. Leah returns to the hospital where she learns that a member of Vita Nova named Jordan disguised himself as a nurse and almost smothers him but is stopped by Rose and the hospital security, Leah asks if that is the last of Vita Nova and Rose says that the last members of Vita Nova have been arrested as Jordan didn't cover his tracks properly. Leah begins suffering from nightmares and even has a panic attack. Leah knows something is wrong and wants the help of Bree, Leah asks Bree if she can give her sleeping tablets and when Bree tells that it will only mask the issue, Leah tells her to forget it. Things come to a head when Leah suffers a psychotic episode and threatens Justin with a knife in the diner. Leah is taken to hospital where she goes into treatment at a mental health facility.

Reception

Nicodemou has received several award nominations for her performance as Leah. She was nominated for the Gold Logie Award for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television at the 2001, [29] 2002 and 2006 Logie Awards, and also received "Most Popular Actress" nominations in 2002 and 2006. [30] [31] She was nominated for the "Best Actress" award at the 2009 Inside Soap Awards. [32] At the 2010, 2011 and 2015 ceremonies she was nominated in the category of "Best Daytime Star". [33] [34] [35] Leah and Irene's friendship won the 2015 TV Week and Soap Extra #OMGAward for Best BFFs. [36] In August 2017, Nicodemou was longlisted for Best Daytime Star at the Inside Soap Awards. [37] The nomination did not progress to the viewer-voted shortlist. [38] In May 2022, Nicodemou received a nomination for Most Popular Actress at the 2022 Logie Awards. [39] She was nominated in the same category in 2023. [40]

In her book Soap Stars, Debbie Foy refers to Leah as having lived through several dramatic episodes. [41] In Andrew Mercado's book, Super Aussie Soaps, he describes Leah as seemingly arriving with an army of Greek relatives, in his opinion it was the introduction of Leah that marked the first time the serial had bothered to include a multicultural community. [42] Holy Soap describe Leah's most memorable moment as being when: "Finding out her beloved Vinnie had died in pokey." [9] TV Week named Leah and Vinnie as one of soap's "Odd Couples". They said "Vinnie was the local goofball working as a stripper. Leah was the responsible Greek girl. They lived together as flatmates and she found herself falling for his quirkiness." [43] Erin Miller writing for TV Week said the week commencing 21 February 2011, was a "huge week" for Leah. She had many dramas and Miller said "poor Leah hit the roof" when she found out Elijah and Miles had been lying to her. [44] TV Week later said Leah's love life was finally looking good with Miles and noted that she is "notorious for getting her heart broken." [45]

In 2007, when Leah was unsure whether or not to leave Summer Bay, Melissa Gaudron writing for The Sydney Morning Herald branded her the "forever indecisive Leah" and said she wanted her to leave the soap opera altogether. [46] While her colleague, Greg Hassell opined that Home and Away was "surprisingly well produced and acted" and that it benefited from the "steadying influence of old-time cast members" such as Nicodemou. [47] Sasha Molitorisz said that Leah tries so hard to be a good mum that "she's forgetting she may occasionally need some sleep". [48] Jim Schembri of The Age said Nicodemou is a "Home and Away long hauler". He opined that Dan made Leah "so happy so quickly" in comparison to Jesse, who he said failed to make her happy "after two years of trying". [49]

The Sydney Morning Herald's Stuart O'Connor criticised the episode of Home and Away that Leah gives birth to VJ. He said the acting was "woeful" and vowed never to watch another episode of the serial. [50] A columnist writing for the Daily Record said that Leah and Elijah went "through a tough time getting their love on track" because of "meddling parents" and Leah's doubts about him. They added that they were "doubtful" the couple would remain together. [51] Tahlia Pritchard from Punkee stated that Home and Away always guaranteed its viewers a four things, which were "Alf, for one. Marilyn always smiling even if she’s angry or upset. Leah having something tragic happen to her because she can’t get a break. And some shirtless, good looking men." [52]

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ada Nicodemou</span> Australian actress (born 1977)

Ada Nicodemou is an Australian actress of Greek Cypriot descent. She began her acting career in 1994 in TV serial Heartbreak High as Katerina Ioannou. She also starred in Police Rescue and Breakers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vinnie Patterson</span> Soap opera character

Vincent "Vinnie" Patterson is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by Ryan Kwanten. He made his first on screen appearance on 14 July 1997 and departed on 1 March 2002. The character made a brief return appearance in the episode shown on 19 November 2004 without Kwanten reprising the role, appearing wearing a bear costume and played by an uncredited actor.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jesse McGregor</span> Soap opera character

Jesse McGregor is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by actor Ben Unwin. He made his first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 20 May 1996. The actor departed in 2000, but returned in 2002 and departed once again on 26 July 2005.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Alex Poulos</span> Soap opera character

Alexi "Alex" Poulos is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, portrayed by Danny Raco. He made his first on screen appearance on 26 February 2001 and departed on 13 February 2004. He returned for a brief guest stint in 2007, arriving on 4 June 2007 and made his final appearance on 19 June 2007.

Drew Curtis (<i>Home and Away</i>) Soap opera character

Andrew "Drew" Curtis is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by Bobby Morley. He made his first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 7 July 2006. He departed on 21 March 2008.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Charlie Buckton</span> Character in the Australian soap opera Home and Away

Charlie Buckton is a fictional character from the Australian Channel Seven soap opera Home and Away, played by Esther Anderson. Anderson was added to the cast in a bid to add more "sex appeal" to the show. She said it was her dream job and relocated to Sydney immediately to accommodate filming. The character made her on-screen debut during the episode airing on 6 June 2008. Charlie was billed as having a "warm heart" and being "family oriented"; however, her actions are often misunderstood and her persona has been perceived as "brash". She is described as being "passionate about her work" and often neglects her daughter, Ruby's needs.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Colleen Smart</span> Soap opera character

Colleen Stewart is a fictional character from the Australian Channel Seven soap opera Home and Away, played by Lyn Collingwood. The character debuted on-screen during the episode airing on 7 March 1988. She was introduced as a recurring character by producer Alan Bateman. She served as comic relief and busybody from 1988. She returned briefly in 1997 before returning as a regular on 23 September 1999 until January 2013. Colleen has been portrayed as the serial's "local gossip", a role that been well received by certain critics. Many storylines have centered on her over protective nature towards her son Lance Smart. Collingwood revealed that she often pitched storylines for Colleen in the hope they would play out on-screen. Collingwood decided to leave the series in January 2012 and Colleen departed on 23 May 2012. She made a brief return from 27 November 2012 and officially departed on 24 January 2013.

Miles Copeland (<i>Home and Away</i>) Fictional character in Home and Away

Miles "Milco" Copeland is a fictional character from the Australian Channel Seven soap opera Home and Away, played by Josh Quong Tart. He debuted on-screen during the episode airing on 30 November 2007. Ryley Mickle and Jackson Edwards played Miles in flashback sequences, showing him at ages three and eight years old respectively. During the early years of Home and Away, Sally Fletcher often spoke of an imaginary friend she called "Milco". When Ritchie announced her departure from the soap, producers decided to introduce the real Milco, as regular character Miles Copeland. The development was described by the media as a "legacy storyline." Quong Tart announced his departure from Home and Away in October 2011. Miles departed on 23 November 2011.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Darryl Braxton</span> Soap opera character

Darryl "Brax" Braxton is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by Steve Peacocke. He made his first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 16 February 2011. The character was created and introduced along with his two brothers; Heath and Casey. The trio were nicknamed The River Boys and were inspired by the real life Bra Boys group. When Peacocke learnt about the role of Brax, he initially thought he would not suit the part as he is from the country. However, after learning more about the character, Peacocke successfully auditioned for the role. Peacocke's departure was announced on 1 February 2015 and Brax made a temporary exit on 10 June 2015, before returning on 9 December. He made his final appearance on 7 June 2016.

Elijah Johnson (<i>Home and Away</i>) Soap opera character

Elijah Johnson is a fictional character from the Australian Channel Seven soap opera Home and Away, played by Jay Laga'aia. When the serial created the character, they felt it was a role that would be well suited to Laga'aia and invited him to join the cast. Laga'aia accepted and filmed for a number of months before leaving to film for a separate project. Laga'aia agreed to return to filming in November 2010. In February 2012, it was announced Laga'aia had finished filming with Home and Away and Elijah departed on screen on 11 April 2012.

The Great Storm (<i>Home and Away</i>)

The Great Storm is a group of four episodes of the Australian soap opera Home and Away, broadcast between 5 and 8 September 2011 on Network Seven, during the show's twenty-fourth season. The episodes focused on a severe storm which crosses over the fictional town of Summer Bay and leaves several of the serial's characters in danger. Home and Away's producer Cameron Welsh first announced intention to screen the storyline in June 2011. It was self-described to be the "biggest stunt/disaster storyline" to ever feature in the serial. In the months prior to its screening, the cast filmed a series of stunts for the episodes on a shoot lasting eleven days. It marked the first time that Home and Away used a wide combination of special effects such as FX, green screen, wind machines and rain machines. Along with more time than usual spent filming the block of episodes, the storyline became Home and Away's most expensive to date. Welsh said that the use of machinery became problematic during filming so additional dialogue recordings were added to the scenes during post-production.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Heath Braxton</span> Soap opera character

Heath Braxton is a fictional character from the Australian Channel Seven soap opera Home and Away, played by Dan Ewing. He made his first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 16 February 2011. Ewing confirmed his departure in December 2013 and Heath made his on-screen exit on 29 July 2014, but made a brief appearance on 23 September 2014 for his brother Casey Braxton's funeral. Heath and his wife Bianca Scott made a return in 2016 and departed on 3 February 2017. Ewing reprised the role for one episode on 3 February 2021.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Dan Baker (Home and Away)</span> Soap opera character

Daniel David "Dan" Baker is a fictional character from the Australian Channel Seven soap opera Home and Away, played by Tim Campbell. The actor has appeared in the series prior to taking the regular role of Dan in 2004. Dan is characterised as a "likeable, committed and passionate" man. He grew up in a small rural town and developed a liking for nature. Dan is a school councilor and many of his storylines involve his family unit. Dan's most prominent relationship is shared with Leah Patterson-Baker. But their relationship is tested following the introduction of Dan's ex-wife Amanda Vale. She claims that Dan used to hit her and even attempts to sabotage his wedding. He is the brother of Peter a police officer whose occupation endangers Dan's life. He also has to deal with a gambling addiction, which Campbell carried out research to portray.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VJ Patterson</span> Soap opera character

Vincent Alexandros "VJ" Patterson, Jr. is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away. VJ has been portrayed by various child actors since his introduction. Felix Dean played the role from 2007 until it was recast in 2014, and Matthew Little took over. VJ made his first appearance during the episode broadcast on 30 November 2001. He is the son of Leah Patterson and Vinnie Patterson. After departing on 23 November 2017, he made a brief appearance in video footage on 5 February 2018. Little reprised the role in 2024 for Leah's wedding to Justin Morgan.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Zac MacGuire</span> Soap opera character

Zac MacGuire is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by Charlie Clausen. The actor successfully auditioned for the role in 2012 and was told he had won the role on his birthday. Clausen began filming almost immediately and was initially contracted for three years. Clausen had to give up recording his podcast TOFOP at Seven Network's request, as it was deemed a conflict of interest. He made his first screen appearance on 22 January 2013.

Martin Ashford (<i>Home and Away</i>) Soap opera character

Martin "Ash" Ashford is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by George Mason. The character made his first screen appearance on 27 October 2014. When Mason auditioned he believed Ash to be a "great character" and moved from Melbourne to accept the role. Ash is characterised as a tough, ex-prisoner who has a backstory of criminal activity. He was sent to prison after committing a robbery with Dean Sanderson, but he framed Ash as the sole perpetrator and turned his sister Billie against him.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Billie Ashford</span> Soap opera character

Belinda "Billie" Ashford is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Home and Away, played by Tessa de Josselin. The actress was first pictured on set in November 2014, before it was announced the following year that she had joined the cast as the younger sister of established character Martin Ashford. De Josselin shot her first scenes in a cemetery on the Central Coast. She made her first appearance during the episode broadcast on 27 April 2015. The actress departed the show at the end of her guest stint, but she was later asked back by the producers and she became part of the regular cast.

References

  1. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (12 November 2012). "'Home and Away' Ada Nicodemou on Leah exit: 'She fears for her life'". Digital Spy . Hearst Magazines UK . Retrieved 13 November 2012.
  2. 1 2 3 Everton, Denise (17 March 2000). "Homecoming for soapie star". Illawarra Mercury . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  3. 1 2 3 "Ada: 'Why I'm staying in Summer Bay!'". What's on TV . (IPC Media). 17 June 2009. Archived from the original on 20 February 2012. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  4. ↑ Conolly, Paul (29 May 2011). "Ada Nicodemou". The Sun-Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  5. 1 2 3 Ellis, Scott (18 January 2009). "Drama remains the attraction". The Sun-Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  6. ↑ "Ada Nicodemou - Yahoo!7 TV". Yahoo!7 . (Seven Network and Yahoo!). 2008. Archived from the original on 20 September 2009. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
  7. 1 2 "Leah Patterson-Baker - Yahoo!7". Yahoo!7 . (Seven Network and Yahoo!). 2008. Archived from the original on 16 November 2009. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
  8. ↑ "Holy Soap > Home and Away > Cast > Romeo Smith". Holy Soap . (Channel 5). 2010. Archived from the original on 30 November 2009. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
  9. 1 2 "Leah Patterson-Baker". Holy Soap . (Channel 5). 2010. Archived from the original on 10 August 2009. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
  10. ↑ Browne, Rachel (22 August 2004). "My week". The Sun-Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  11. ↑ "Natural beauty: Ada Nicodemou". Beauty Haven. 13 July 2009. Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  12. ↑ "'I want evil Leah'- says H&A star". RTÉ TEN . (Raidió Teilifís Éireann). 16 June 2011. Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  13. ↑ Tydd, Michele (22 May 2001). "What a ribbing". Illawarra Mercury . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  14. 1 2 "Ada Nicodemou". Yahoo!7 . (Seven Network and Yahoo!). Archived from the original on 3 November 2011. Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  15. 1 2 Rainey, Naomi (18 February 2011). "Nicodemou: 'Leah will fall in love again'". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  16. 1 2 Dow, Steve (1 August 2010). "The prince who fell for a munchkin". The Sun-Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  17. 1 2 3 Kilkelly, Daniel (12 February 2010). "Ada Nicodemou praises gritty 'H&A' plots". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Archived from the original on 15 May 2010. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  18. ↑ Davies, Rebecca (29 November 2010). "Nicodemou: 'I was bullied as a child'". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  19. ↑ Idato, Michael (16 November 2009). "Search begins for fresh geeks". The Sydney Morning Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  20. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (26 January 2010). "'H&A' actress pleased with new love plot". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Archived from the original on 11 June 2011. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  21. 1 2 Millar, Paul (19 March 2011). "Ada Nicodemou: 'Leah, Elijah won't reunite'". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  22. ↑ "Home & Away Miles reveals a 'surprising' new love". What's on TV . (IPC Media). 11 August 2011. Archived from the original on 5 September 2012. Retrieved 20 July 2011.
  23. 1 2 3 "Leah leaps into love?". Channel 5 . (Northern & Shell). 11 May 2011. Retrieved 10 August 2011.
  24. 1 2 3 "Days by the Bay". RTÉ TEN . (Raidió Teilifís Éireann). 20 June 2011. Retrieved 10 August 2011.
  25. 1 2 3 4 5 Kilkelly, Daniel (2 August 2011). "'Home and Away' actress promises pregnancy plot drama". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 11 August 2011.
  26. 1 2 Kilkelly, Daniel (8 August 2011). "'Home and Away' to air surprise proposal". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 11 August 2011.
  27. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (30 November 2011). "'Home and Away' baby tragedy pushes Leah and Miles apart". Digital Spy . (Hearst Magazines UK). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  28. ↑ Davies, Rebecca (17 October 2011). "'Home and Away's Josh Quong Tart confirms departure from show". Digital Spy . Hearst Magazines UK . Retrieved 17 October 2011.
  29. ↑ "Logies nominations". (Australian Associated Press). 2 April 2001. Retrieved 18 July 2010.[ dead link ]
  30. ↑ "Nominations for the 44th TV Week Logie Awards". (Australian Associated Press). 26 April 2002. Retrieved 18 July 2010.[ dead link ]
  31. ↑ "Logie Award Nominees". (Australian Associated Press). 3 April 2006. Retrieved 18 July 2010.[ dead link ]
  32. ↑ "Inside Soap Awards 2009: Nominees". Sky.com . (BSkyB). Archived from the original on 16 July 2011. Retrieved 18 July 2010.
  33. ↑ Wightman, Catriona (13 July 2010). "In Full: Inside Soap Awards 2010 Nominees". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi). Archived from the original on 17 October 2010. Retrieved 13 July 2010.
  34. ↑ Love, Ryan (11 July 2011). "In Full: Inside Soap Awards 2011 Nominees". Digital Spy . (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 3 October 2011.
  35. ↑ Dainty, Sophie (14 July 2015). "Inside Soap Awards 2015 longlist revealed: Who's in line for Best Actor, Actress and Newcomer?". Digital Spy . Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  36. ↑ "Drum Roll Please...". TV Week Soap Extra (22): 24–25. 15–28 October 2015.
  37. ↑ Harp, Justin (22 August 2017). "Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks all make the Inside Soap Awards longlist". Digital Spy . Hearst Magazines UK . Retrieved 22 August 2017.
  38. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (31 October 2017). "Inside Soap Awards 2017 shortlist revealed – which Corrie, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks stars are up for prizes?". Digital Spy . Hearst Magazines UK . Retrieved 4 November 2017.
  39. ↑ Knox, David (15 May 2022). "Logie Awards 2022: nominees". TV Tonight . Retrieved 15 May 2022.
  40. ↑ Knox, David (19 June 2023). "TV Week Logie Awards 2023: nominees". TV Tonight . Retrieved 19 June 2023.
  41. ↑ Foy, Debbie (2009). Soap Stars (21st Century Lives). Hodder Wayland. p. 4. ISBN   978-0-7502-5689-6. Archived from the original on 5 January 2019. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  42. ↑ Mercado, Andrew (2004). Super Aussie soaps: behind the scenes of Australia's best loved TV shows. Pluto Press Australia. p. 219. ISBN   1-86403-191-3. Archived from the original on 23 December 2016. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  43. ↑ Brygel, Jackie (19–25 June 2004). "The Odd Couples". TV Week (25). ACP Magazines: 18–19.
  44. ↑ Miller, Erin (25 February 2011). "River Boys wreak havoc". TV Week . (ACP Magazines). Archived from the original on 21 March 2012. Retrieved 16 May 2011.
  45. ↑ "Coming soon on Home and Away". TV Week . (ACP Magazines). 15 August 2011. Archived from the original on 21 March 2012. Retrieved 19 August 2011.
  46. ↑ Gaudron, Melissa (5 November 2007). "TV previews". The Sydney Morning Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  47. ↑ Hassall, Greg (9 July 2007). "TV previews". The Sydney Morning Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 2 November 2011.
  48. ↑ Molitorisz, Sasha (28 January 2002). "TV previews". The Sydney Morning Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  49. ↑ Schembri, Jim (6 January 2005). "Critic's choice". The Age . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  50. ↑ O'Connor, Stuart (26 November 2001). "TV previews". The Sydney Morning Herald . (Fairfax Media). Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  51. ↑ "Soap stories". Daily Record . (Trinity Mirror). 24 July 2010. Retrieved 3 November 2011.
  52. ↑ Pritchard, Tahlia (12 May 2020). "Help, I Am Incredibly Thirsty For Tane On 'Home & Away'". Punkee . Retrieved 29 May 2020.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.