The global Home and Away community has been left in shock and deep mourning. Beloved actress Ada Nicodemou has officially announced she is saying goodbye to the long-running soap after more than 25 years of portraying the iconic character, Leah Patterson. Her departure will leave an enormous void in Summer Bay.

Tears for a Legend

Since her first appearance in 2000 as runaway bride Leah Poulos, Ada Nicodemou quickly became an irreplaceable fixture on the show. For over two decades, we have shared every emotion with Leah: through her tumultuous love life, broken marriages (and a recent hopeful wedding to Justin Morgan), personal tragedies, and countless warm, comforting moments at the beloved Diner.

Leah Patterson was more than just a character; she was the heart and soul of the Summer Bay community, the ever-reliable shoulder for struggling residents. Ada’s dedication to the role secured her place as the third-longest-serving female actor in Australian soap history.

The Reason Behind the Shock Decision

In an emotional statement, Ada Nicodemou confessed that leaving Home and Away was one of the hardest decisions of her life. She shared that after 25 years, the time felt right to pursue new creative challenges and dedicate more time to her son, Johnas.

“This hasn’t just been a job; it’s been my life, my second family. I grew up with Leah, and a part of my heart will forever remain in Summer Bay,” she wrote. “I am eternally grateful to the fans who have supported Leah through every single joy and heartache. I will miss everything, from making coffees at the Diner to those early morning shoots on the beach.”

The End of an Era

While details of Leah’s final exit storyline are being kept under wraps, fans are on the edge of their seats to see how her chapter concludes. Will Leah and Justin finally get the peace and happiness they deserve? Or will tragedy strike her one last time in the final episodes?

Ada Nicodemou’s departure truly signals the end of an era. While she will be dearly missed, the legacy of Leah Patterson—her kindness, resilience, and strength—will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of viewers.