Olivia bids an emotional farewell to Summer Bay this week with actress Raechelle Banno leaving Home And Away.
The young designer decides to pursue her career with an exciting new job in Melbourne. It’s a teary goodbye when Irene (Lynne McGranger) organises a surprise send-off featuring Jasmine (Sam Frost), Roo (Georgie Parker), Leah (Ada Nicodemou) and Marilyn (Emily Symons).
“She’s gone off to chase her dreams and this new path that she’s taken can really be done anywhere – whether it be Melbourne, Europe, New York or Summer Bay,” Raechelle, 25, tells TV WEEK.
“I think that leaves things open for her to be in touch with Irene, as well as everyone she loves.”
Olivia says goodbye to the Bay.
After three years on the show, the talented young actress is grateful for the learning experience.
“I’m proud of what I’ve done and what I was able to achieve,” she says, adding she’ll miss her fellow actors most.
“You end up seeing them more than your own family!” Raechelle says.
“But they’re still with me in my heart.”
While many H&A alumni have left the show and made the big move to Hollywood, Raechelle would rather ply her trade in Australia.
“I have dipped my toe over in LA,” she reveals. “However, I’m very keen to keep working at home. We’ve got such a beautiful industry here with such talented individuals and I definitely want to be a part of that.”
While Raechelle can’t say too much, she’s already got something lined up.
“I have started on a little project,” she says. “I’m really excited for that and the newness of everything post-Home And Away. And one day I’d love to explore developing my own projects, too.”
Raechelle with her on-screen pal Sam Frost (Jasmine).
Raechelle has been on Home and Away since 2015. Her final episode airs tonight, Monday August 13th, at 7pm on Channel Seven.
