In heartbreaking news shaking the Home and Away fandom, beloved actor Charlie Clausen has announced that he and his wife have officially divorced after a decade of marriage. The quietly adored star, best known for his time playing fan-favourite Zac MacGuire in the long-running Aussie soap, confirmed the split in an emotional statement that has left viewers stunned — and, in some cases, outright furious.

Sources close to the actor say the separation, finalised only recently, was “deeply painful” for both parties. Clausen, who has always kept his private life out of the spotlight, reportedly wrestled with the decision for months before finally going public. But it’s the reason behind the split that has triggered a wave of anger and frustration across social media.

According to insiders, the divorce followed a relentless period of professional pressure, during which Clausen was juggling multiple projects, long filming commitments, and an increasingly demanding schedule that kept him away from home for extended stretches. While neither party has accused the other of wrongdoing, Clausen’s statement hinted that work–life imbalance became impossible to navigate.

“After many years of trying to make it work, we reached a point where we realised the marriage was no longer sustainable,” he shared. “It’s no one’s fault, but the time apart made everything harder than we expected.”

Those close to the couple say the turning point came last year, when Clausen took on back-to-back filming commitments despite already feeling stretched thin. Friends have said the actor felt enormous pressure to “strike while the iron was hot,” especially after renewed attention from Home and Away fans hoping for his return. But the endless travel and time away allegedly placed an unbearable strain on the relationship.

The reaction online has been swift — and heated. Many fans have rallied behind the actor, but just as many are voicing outrage that Clausen’s intense work schedule played such a pivotal role.

“So heartbreaking that his industry still demands this much sacrifice,” one fan wrote. “No one should have to choose between their career and their marriage.”

Another posted bluntly: “Unacceptable. Actors are people too. This system breaks families.”

Several long-time viewers have even questioned whether the pressures of the entertainment industry have become “toxic,” with some calling for better support for Australian performers trying to maintain personal relationships amid unpredictable work demands.

Meanwhile, those who know Clausen insist that he is “devastated but determined” to handle the separation respectfully and privately. Friends say he’s focusing on healing, staying close to family, and stepping back from some commitments in the coming months.

As for rumours of a possible Home and Away return — something fans have begged for — insiders say everything is now on pause while the actor restructures his life post-divorce.

For viewers who watched him bring emotional depth and quiet intensity to Summer Bay, this news marks the end of an era in more ways than one. And as fans continue voicing heartbreak — and anger — one thing is clear: Charlie Clausen’s shock announcement has left waves far beyond the screen.