Summer Bay Heartbroken: Peter Phelps Bids Farewell to Home and Away as He Begins Osteoarthritis Treatment
A wave of emotion has swept across Summer Bay and beyond as Home and Away legend Peter Phelps has confirmed that his latest appearance on the long-running Australian soap will be his last — at least for now. The beloved actor, whose career has spanned more than four decades, revealed that he will officially step away from acting to focus on treatment for osteoarthritis, a painful degenerative joint condition.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
Phelps’s announcement has left both fans and cast members heartbroken. Known for his commanding presence and heartfelt performances, his character has long been a fixture in Home and Away, bringing warmth, strength, and emotional depth to Summer Bay’s ever-evolving community.
While Phelps has not ruled out the possibility of returning once his treatment is complete, this departure feels like the end of an era for many devoted viewers who have grown up watching him on screen.
A Storied Career Across Australian Television
Peter Phelps is one of Australia’s most respected and versatile performers. From early roles in Sons and Daughters and The Flying Doctors to his international work in Baywatch — where he famously taught David Hasselhoff to ride a rescue board — Phelps’s career has been nothing short of remarkable.
His time on Home and Away cemented his status as an icon of Australian drama, with storylines that tackled love, loss, redemption, and the challenges of small-town life. His nuanced portrayals have earned him critical praise and the affection of millions of fans around the world.
Prioritising Health and Well-being
In his statement, Phelps explained that stepping away from the spotlight was not an easy decision, but a necessary one. Osteoarthritis, a condition that causes chronic joint pain and stiffness, has increasingly impacted his mobility and comfort. The actor’s decision to focus on his health is a reflection of his enduring strength and honesty — qualities that have always defined both the man and the characters he’s played.
Fans have flooded social media with messages of love and support, praising Phelps’s courage and sending best wishes for his recovery. Co-stars have also paid tribute, describing him as a mentor, a friend, and one of the true gentlemen of Australian television.
Will This Be Goodbye or “See You Later”?
While Phelps’s departure from Home and Away marks a significant loss, producers have reportedly chosen to keep the door open for his character’s possible return. This has given viewers hope that once his treatment is complete, Phelps might make a triumphant comeback to the show that has been such a defining part of his career.
A Legacy to Celebrate
Peter Phelps’s legacy extends far beyond Summer Bay. His passion for storytelling, commitment to authenticity, and enduring love for his craft have inspired generations of Australian actors and viewers alike.
As he embarks on this new chapter — one focused on healing and restoration — his fans remain united in their gratitude and support. Whether this is goodbye or simply “see you later,” Peter Phelps’s mark on Home and Away and Australian television will never fade.