Fans of the long-running Australian drama Home and Away are celebrating some real-life romance, as former stars Sophie Dillman and Patrick O'Connor have announced their engagement. The couple, whose on-screen characters were also romantically involved, shared their joyful news on social media over the weekend.
A Sydney Beach Proposal
The romantic moment took place against the iconic backdrop of the Sydney city skyline. Dillman, who played Ziggy Astoni on the show, posted a series of photos from the beachside proposal on her Instagram account. She accompanied the images with a heartfelt caption: "Home has always been with you."
O'Connor, who portrayed Dean Thompson, shared his own behind-the-scenes glimpse of the special day. His post included images of the moment he got down on one knee and a close-up of the stunning engagement ring, crafted by Sydney-based atelier Mendel Rose. "Not all treasure is silver and gold mate," O'Connor wrote, adding, "Soph I love you in this life, the next and forever xx."
From Co-Stars to Real-Life Partners
The couple's love story mirrors that of their television characters. Dillman and O'Connor first met at acting school, but their romance blossomed after they both landed roles on Home and Away in 2017 and 2018 respectively. They became a real-life couple in 2019, while playing the popular on-again, off-again pair Ziggy and Dean in Summer Bay.
In 2023, the actors made the decision to leave the series together and relocated to the United Kingdom to work and travel. They made a brief but celebrated return to Summer Bay for a storyline in March 2025.
Castmates Flood Social Media with Congratulations
The announcement prompted an outpouring of love from their former colleagues and the Australian entertainment community. Long-time Home and Away star Lynne McGranger wrote, "Awww loads of love to you both! How wonderful." Georgie Parker commented, "Oh sweethearts, huge love to both of you. Could NOT be happier for you." Angelina Thomson shared in the excitement, posting, "The richest feeling in the world!! HUGE CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR LOVE TO YOU BOTH!!! Ahhhhhhh!!!"
The engagement marks the latest chapter for the beloved actors, whose characters' journey on the show included a turbulent pregnancy and the birth of their daughter, Izzy, before leaving Summer Bay in March 2023. Their off-screen fairy-tale continues to capture the hearts of fans across Australia and beyond.
