A Return Fans Have Waited More Than a Decade For

Home and Away legend Ray Meagher, known to millions as Alf Stewart, has sent the Summer Bay fandom into a spiral after teasing a possible return for Kate Ritchie and her iconic character Sally Fletcher in 2026.

Kate left the show in 2008, after first appearing as a child in 1988. She returned briefly in 2013, and fans have continued to hope for another emotional comeback. Now, their wish might finally be within reach.

During an interview on Nova 96.9, Ray was asked directly—while sitting beside Kate—if Summer Bay could see Sally walk the beaches again. Radio host Wippa framed it as a national dream, saying fans imagine a future season with not only returning favourites like the River Boys, but also Sally Fletcher coming home.

Kate looked embarrassed by the question, but what Ray said next changed everything.

Ray Meagher: “I’d Make an Exception”

When asked if he’d speak to producers about bringing Sally back, Ray said something he has never said before:

“I’ve never been to the producers about a storyline for me, but I’d make an exception in Kate’s case and go and have a yarn to them.”

For an actor who has played Alf for nearly 40 years, that statement carried weight. Fans immediately began campaigning online, pointing out that 51% of Yahoo Lifestyle readers said they want Sally to return in 2026.

Meanwhile, a Deadly Season Finale Looms

This interview comes during one of the most intense weeks in current Home and Away history.

The 2025 finale has been teased as a “literal train wreck.” Promos promise a terrifying crash, a major emergency response, and one character who will not survive.

Ray called the finale “absolutely amazing,” adding:

“There are a lot of very key characters involved… So will they all get out? Will some of them get out? Will one of them come back? Who knows?”

Viewers are already theorising that Eddie Shepherd (Stephen Madsen) could be the one to die, after fans noticed he hasn’t been seen filming 2026 scenes. Others jokingly suggested it might be the train driver.

Could Sally Return Just as Another Soul is Lost?

If a major character death closes 2025, a beloved return could open 2026. A poetic exchange: one farewell, one homecoming.

The finale airs Wednesday, November 19, and the next chapter of Summer Bay could depend on what happens on that train.