Home and Away stars Patrick O’Connor and Sophie Dillman have announced they are leaving the Channel 5 soap after more than five years.
The real-life couple, who play on-screen love interests Dean Thompson and Ziggy Astoni, left fans devastated after penning poignant tributes regarding their time on the show.
Paddy, 30, made his debut as River Boy Dean in 2018 and became a firm favourite amongst fans.
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Sharing a selection of snaps from his time on the show, the Aussie actor wrote: “Well my friends my time as a river boy has come to an end.”
He went on to thank the Home and Away team, adding: “It’s been such an incredible place to work, I miss it a lot, but more so the people I met along the way.”
(Image: Channel 5)
Paddy continued: “Lastly to the fans, there would be no show without you. You truly have made the experience unforgettable.”
He signed off the lengthy post by saying: “Thank you for the support, I’ll always remember the love”.
Meanwhile Sophie, 29, joined the cast as Ziggy in 2017.
Also announcing her departure on Instagram, the blonde beauty posted a selection of her favourite moments from her time on the Australian programme.
“I can’t believe Ziggy Astoni broke down on the shores of Summer bay almost six years ago,” Sophie penned.
(Image: Channel 5)
She labelled her role as Ziggy as “the best job with the best people”, adding that she was inspired “to do better” while playing the character.
Sophie continued: “Thank you to the cast and crew. I miss you everyday but I’m sure you don’t miss me screaming down the corridors without my shoes on.
“The biggest thank you goes to the fans. We only get to do what we do because of your support. I will be forever grateful”.
While many of their co-stars wished them good luck on their next adventure, fans took to the comments to share their devastation at the duo leaving.
“So so sad to see you both leave, I cried. Home and away will not be the same and I say that as someone who has watched for nearly 30 years,” penned one fan.
Another viewer added: “It will be sad that you aren’t on the show anymore. It won’t be the same without you and Paddy”.
Echoing this, someone else shared: “Your amazing in this show and it’s just won’t be the same without you in it”.
While a fourth gutted viewer commented: “No word of a lie, I cried. I’m going to miss you both. The show won’t be the same now”.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
