They’ve had to navigate more than their share of challenges, but in doing so, Justin and Leah have thrived, becoming firm favourites with fans since 2019.
“I believe they’re currently the longest-running couple on Australian TV, so we’ve created a pretty solid fan base,” James Stewart, who plays Justin to Ada Nicodemou’s Leah, tells TV WEEK.
Justin and Leah have been firm favourites with fans since 2019.
“Husbands and wives at home can identify themselves in them and stick up for their respective points of view.”
The dramatic storylines this year, which included an attempt on their lives, have been incredible to watch, but came at a cost.
“It was a wonderful opportunity to sink my teeth into the story, but it was very draining,” Ada, 46, who has played Leah since 2000, says. “By the end of it I was physically and mentally exhausted. It was tough subject matter, but I wanted to do it justice.”
James, 48, says his colleague “knocked it out of the park”.
“It amazes me that Ada has been doing this for a while,” he says.
“It amazes me that Ada has been doing this for a while and still finds performances like she does,” he says.
Both actors are looking to soak up some relaxation with their families this Christmas.
“There’s always food [at Christmas],” Ada says of her get-together. “We’re also very lucky that this year we’re going to be welcoming a new baby for Christmas – my brother and sister-in-law are having a second child.”
After a health scare this year which saw Ada suffer a back injury that required surgery – as well as a busy schedule surrounding her TV WEEK Logie Award nomination in June – she’s eager to spend time with her son Johnas, 11, and partner Adam Rigby.
“We just want to hang out,” she says.
Meanwhile, James, who was also nominated for a Logie in 2023, is enjoying the best gift of all: his 11-year-old daughter Scout’s curiosity about life.
“A highlight is watching how intelligent Scout has become,” he says. “She’s just a sponge. Also, I’m a sucker for performance gifts – recently, she drew me a whale in grey pencil and I was absolutely stunned. She’s amazing!”
Much like his character, James won’t be far from the sand this summer: “It’s all about family, beach, barbecues, surfing, guitars, laughs, siestas, books, love and sunshine!” he says.
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