It’s the Home and Away twist no one expected — and it’s left loyal viewers across Australia in complete shock. After years of being the unshakable heart of Summer Bay, Alf Stewart (played by soap legend Ray Meagher) has suffered a heart attack in one of the most emotional storylines in recent memory.

A Tragic Trigger

The health crisis comes moments after Alf receives devastating news — the sudden death of an old friend, a figure from his past who was believed to be living quietly overseas. The emotional shock proves too much, and within minutes, Alf collapses at the Surf Club, clutching his chest.

What follows is pure heartbreak as Leah, John, and Roo race to his aid, desperately calling for help. The haunting silence that settles over Summer Bay in those moments has already been described by fans as “one of the most powerful scenes in Home and Away history.”

The Bay in Crisis

For more than three decades, Alf has been the cornerstone of Home and Away — a father figure, a friend, and often the voice of reason in times of chaos. From natural disasters to family feuds, he’s always stood firm. But this time, the tables have turned.

“This storyline will test Alf like never before,” an insider told reporters. “He’s always been the one holding everyone else together. Now, the people of Summer Bay have to rally around him.”

Rumours suggest that Alf’s health scare will send ripples through the community, impacting not just his family but many of the Bay’s newer residents as well. Some fans are even speculating this could be the beginning of Alf’s farewell storyline — though producers are staying tight-lipped.

Fans React with Emotion

Social media erupted within minutes of the episode airing.

“If Alf leaves, it’s the end of an era,” wrote one heartbroken fan.

“I’ve watched him since I was a kid — I can’t imagine Home and Away without him,” another added.

Ray Meagher’s portrayal of Alf has earned him legendary status in Australian television, and fans are calling this storyline one of his finest performances to date.

What’s Next for Alf Stewart?

While the show’s producers have not confirmed whether Alf will make a full recovery, insiders hint that the aftermath of his heart attack will spark some of the most emotional episodes of the year.

“Alf’s always been the symbol of resilience,” said one source. “But this experience might finally make him confront his age, his legacy, and what he wants the rest of his life to look like.”

No matter what comes next, one thing is clear: Summer Bay will never be the same again.

Alf Stewart’s collapse is more than just a dramatic twist — it’s a reminder of how deeply this character has become woven into the fabric of Home and Away. And as viewers hold their breath for the next episode, one question lingers: Can the heart of Summer Bay keep beating without Alf?