and the heart of Summer Bay—has publicly thrown his support behind a potential return that fans have been dreaming about for years: Sally Fletcher coming home.

For more than three decades, Meagher has embodied Alf Stewart, the gruff yet fiercely loyal patriarch of Summer Bay. Known for his steadfast refusal to interfere

with storylines or lobby producers for creative decisions, Meagher has always maintained a clear boundary between actor and storyteller. That’s why his latest comments have sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fandom.

During a recent radio appearance, Meagher openly admitted that there is exactly one exception to his long-standing rule—and it involves Kate Ritchie.

“I’ve never gone to the producers about a storyline,” Meagher revealed. “But I’d make an exception in Kate’s case.”

For fans, those few words carried enormous weight.

A Bond That Defined an Era

Kate Ritchie first appeared on Home and Away in 1988, debuting alongside Meagher in the show’s very first episode. As Sally Fletcher, she grew up on screen before the nation’s eyes, evolving from a vulnerable foster child into a strong, compassionate teacher and moral compass of the Bay. Her relationship with Alf Stewart—equal parts tough love, unconditional support, and deeply earned trust—became one of the most enduring dynamics in Australian television history.

For many viewers, Alf and Sally weren’t just characters; they were family.

Ritchie’s departure in 2008 marked the end of an era. Though she returned briefly in 2013 for a short guest arc, Sally has been absent from Summer Bay for over a decade. In that time, Kate Ritchie has carved out a hugely successful career in radio, becoming a household name as co-host of Fitzy & Wippa with Kate Ritchie. Despite her success, fans have never stopped asking the same question: will Sally ever come back?

Now, thanks to Ray Meagher, that question feels more alive than ever.

A Rare Plea From a Reluctant Legend

Meagher’s comments came during a lively radio discussion that quickly turned nostalgic. As the conversation drifted toward returning characters—spurred by the upcoming reappearance of Darryl “Brax” Braxton—co-host Michael “Wippa” Wipfli couldn’t resist raising the obvious possibility.

Turning to Ritchie, Wippa cheekily pointed out that she had never definitively ruled out a return to Home and Away. Her laughter was telling—equal parts deflection and intrigue.

But it was Meagher’s response that truly electrified the room.

Seated beside Ritchie, he made it clear that he would be willing to personally approach the show’s producers to discuss Sally’s return. For a man who has steadfastly avoided such involvement for 36 years, the moment felt historic.

“I’d have a yarn with them,” Meagher said with a knowing smile. “Just this once.”

The comment instantly reverberated across social media, reigniting speculation and hope in equal measure.

Why Sally’s Return Would Matter Now

Home and Away is no stranger to dramatic twists, legacy comebacks, and emotional reunions. In recent months, the show has plunged Summer Bay into turmoil with devastating events, including life-altering tragedies and shocking departures. As the series gears up for its 2026 storyline arc, the emotional stakes have never been higher.

That’s precisely why Sally Fletcher’s return could be so powerful.

Sally represents stability, compassion, and continuity—qualities that feel especially meaningful in a Bay rocked by loss and upheaval. Her presence wouldn’t just be a nostalgic callback; it would offer emotional grounding for long-standing characters and viewers alike.

For Alf Stewart, the return of Sally would strike at the very core of his character. Their relationship was never static—it grew, fractured, healed, and matured over decades. Reuniting them on screen would allow the show to explore themes of aging, legacy, forgiveness, and the enduring nature of family bonds.

Even Meagher has hinted that the idea resonates deeply with him on a personal level. After all, Sally Fletcher isn’t just a former co-star—she represents the earliest chapters of Home and Away itself.

Kate Ritchie: Open, But Uncommitted

Despite the mounting excitement, there has been no official confirmation from Kate Ritchie. While she hasn’t committed to a return, she also hasn’t closed the door. Her reaction during the radio interview—nervous laughter mixed with warm nostalgia—suggested that the idea is far from unwelcome.

Balancing a high-profile radio career with the demands of a long-term television role would be no small decision. But Home and Away has increasingly embraced flexible guest arcs and short-run appearances for legacy characters, making a limited return more plausible than ever.

For fans, even a brief storyline would be enough.

A Reunion Years in the Making?

As Home and Away continues filming ambitious episodes for its 2026 slate, producers are undoubtedly aware of the power of legacy storytelling. Few returns could generate the same emotional impact—or cultural resonance—as Sally Fletcher walking back into Summer Bay.

Ray Meagher’s rare willingness to advocate for the idea has shifted the conversation from wishful thinking to genuine possibility. And in a show built on emotional connections that span generations, sometimes that’s all it takes.

For now, Sally’s future remains unconfirmed. But one thing is certain: when Alf Stewart speaks, Summer Bay listens.