Return of beloved characters
Fans of the iconic Australian soap opera Home and Away are buzzing with excitement as two of their favorite characters, Ziggy Astoni and Dean Thompson, portrayed by Sophie Dillman and Patrick O’Connor, are set to make a dramatic return. This highly anticipated comeback is scheduled for March 10 at 7 PM, and it promises to deliver plenty of action and emotional moments. The announcement was made by Channel Seven on October 14, 2024, confirming that the duo would reprise their roles in the beloved series.
Sophie expressed her joy at returning, stating, “It feels so good to be home,” while Patrick added, “I can’t wait for the action, and for fans to see this storyline play out.” The filming took place in the stunning Whitsunday region, showcasing the beauty of Airlie Beach, Daydream Island, Bowen, and Proserpine.
New adventures in Queensland
Unlike their previous escapades in Summer Bay, Ziggy and Dean’s return will unfold in Queensland, where they have settled down. The storyline will introduce Levi (Tristan Gorey) and Mackenzie (Emily Weir), who are excited to visit the couple. However, tension arises as Levi has ulterior motives, wanting to get closer to Mackenzie, which leads to a clash with Dean. Dean’s distrust of Levi stems from his past infidelity, setting the stage for a gripping narrative.
As the characters navigate their differences, they will also face unexpected challenges. Mackenzie and Ziggy find themselves in a perilous situation when they are taken hostage by escaped prisoners, forcing the characters to unite and put aside their conflicts to save their loved ones. This thrilling twist adds an element of suspense to the storyline, ensuring viewers are on the edge of their seats.
A real-life romance
Interestingly, the chemistry between Sophie and Patrick extends beyond the screen. The two actors have a rich history, having met during their university days at acting school. Their friendship blossomed into a romantic relationship, which they made public in September 2019. Reflecting on their decision to date, Sophie shared, “We decided to give the relationship a go, and thank goodness we did.” The couple has since built a life together, including adopting a cavoodle named Winnie, which they view as a trial run for starting a family.
As they embark on this new chapter in their lives, having recently moved to the United Kingdom, Sophie and Patrick continue to support each other both personally and professionally. Sophie has expressed her delight in working alongside Patrick, stating, “It’s great working with him – it’s always fun.” Their strong foundation as friends has undoubtedly contributed to the success of their relationship, making them a beloved couple both on and off the screen.