Kyle Shilling Set for Surprise Exit from ‘Home and Away’ in Early 2026

In a development that has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fandom, actor Kyle Shilling, who portrays the beloved Mali Hudson, is officially set to depart Summer Bay at the beginning of 2026. Since his debut in early 2023, Shilling has become a cornerstone of the long-running Australian soap, making history as the show’s first Indigenous series regular character. His departure marks the end of a significant era for the program and leaves a void in the heart of the coastal community.

Shilling’s character, Mali, arrived in Summer Bay as a breath of fresh air—a talented surfboard shaper and instructor with deep ties to his culture and a fierce loyalty to his friends. Over the past three years, viewers have watched Mali navigate complex romantic entanglements, most notably his high-profile relationship with Rose Delaney (Kirsty Marillier), and take on a leadership role within the town as the owner of the board shop. His storylines often blended personal drama with cultural significance, offering a nuanced portrayal of a modern Indigenous man in a way the show had never explored before.

The news of the departure reportedly comes as Shilling looks to pursue new creative challenges. Having established himself as a versatile talent in both acting and dance, industry insiders suggest that Shilling is eager to explore opportunities in film and perhaps return to his roots in stage performance. While the actor has expressed immense gratitude for his time on the show, citing the “family environment” of the set and the support of the fans, he has also been vocal about his desire to keep growing as an artist.

For fans, the timing of the exit in early 2026 is particularly poignant. It follows a series of high-stakes plotlines for Mali, leading many to speculate how the character will be written out. Will he leave for a new business opportunity on the coast, or will a more dramatic, heart-wrenching exit be in store? Writers are reportedly working on a “satisfying and emotional” send-off that honors the character’s legacy while leaving the door slightly ajar for a potential return in the future.

The impact of Kyle Shilling’s presence on Home and Away cannot be overstated. By bringing Mali Hudson to life, he provided much-needed representation on one of Australia’s most iconic television exports. His performance earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim for the authenticity he brought to the screen.

As the production prepares for his final scenes, the cast and crew have shared their well-wishes, noting that Shilling’s energy and professionalism will be greatly missed on the Palm Beach sets. While the residents of Summer Bay will have to say goodbye to Mali Hudson in just a few months, fans of Kyle Shilling are undoubtedly excited to see where his talent takes him next. For now, viewers are encouraged to tune in for his final months on screen, which promise to be some of his most powerful work yet.