Sadly, it is true – Jessica Redmayne has farewelled Home and Away.
In tonight’s episode of Home and Away, the popular actress appeared in her final scene as Harper Matheson, who made the difficult decision to start a new life with her son Archie and sister Dana (Ally Harris) after being hunted by her abusive ex-boyfriend.
Beau (Blake Richardson) was eventually arrested by police, but Harper knew she’d never feel safe in Summer Bay. With a teary farewell to her friends and Tane (Ethan Browne), it was goodbye to the life she knew.
Harper’s heartbreaking exit
In an exclusive interview with TV WEEK, Jessica says the storyline led to an abrupt exit for her character but she’s immensely grateful to have been part of the iconic program.
“It’s, of course, sad to see Harper go – especially on terms like these – but I’m grateful as Jessica the actor to have experienced the immense challenge,” she says. “I particularly love telling true stories and this one was very real and raw.”
Jessica Redmayne: ‘It’s paramount these stories get told’
While some Home and Away storylines have been known to stretch the imagine, Harper’s trauma was, sadly, based on real-life situations. Now more than ever, it’s important to raise awareness of domestic violence and fight back against an increasingly dangerous problem.
It was a daunting task, Jessica says, but one she was committed to getting right.
“This story is so devastatingly prevalent within our Australian communities as domestic violence in Australian families is at an all-time high,” Jessica explains. “It was certainly difficult to embody a woman who has found herself in a psychologically toxic and physically violent relationship that she can’t escape.
“Truthfully, it did leave me feeling uneasy as I left set each day. But that is the job of an actor, as it is paramount that these stories get told in Australian homes in order to shed light on the true dangers Australian families are facing from domestic violence.”
Love, family and a lifetime of Home and Away memories
Jessica first appeared on Home and Away in 2023 and quickly found love with Tane (Ethan Browne). While they didn’t last as a couple, they share custody of their son, Archie and remain good friends.
She also found a confidante in Irene (Lynne McGranger) who housed two strangers out of her own goodwill. In real-life, the duo is just as close. Jessica describes saying goodbye to Irene Roberts as a “career highlight”.
“Lynne chose to leave Home and Away with Alzheimer’s after being by my side when I lost my Mum,” Jessica says, whose mother lost her hard-fought battle with the disease in 2023. “She said she wanted to spread awareness and what better way than through the telly into Aussie lounge rooms each night. I love Lynne and I owe her a lot for giving me that opportunity.”
And by her side for it all was sister, Dana, played by Ally Harris. Perhaps, it’s serendipitous that they leave together.
“I’m incredibly lucky to call Ally my on-screen sister. That girl is so talented, and she taught me a lot,” Jessica says. “She kept me calm and we became a wonderful support system for each other. I couldn’t have done it without her.”
Their last day on set was “surprisingly calm!” Jess says with a laugh, adding it “felt like a warm book end to three great years.”
Since her exit, Jessica has been starring in the stage production of Steel Magnolias, alongside fellow Home and Away stars, Debra Lawrance and Belinda Giblin.
It would seem then, she hasn’t left Summer Bay completely behind…
“Home and Away was a truly priceless experience as an actor and I’ve grown so much,” Jessica says. “I’ve definitely made friends for life.”
Home and Away airs Monday to Thursday, 7pm on Channel Seven
Lifeline support is available on 13 11 14. Domestic Violence helpline is 1800RESPECT
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