The life of a soap icon is rarely short on drama, but for Emily Symons, the past has come roaring back in a way that feels uncomfortably close to the storylines she has portrayed for decades. The beloved Home and Away star is reportedly locked in a fresh legal battle with her ex-husband, after long-standing allegations of infidelity before their divorce have resurfaced—now entwined with an emotional dispute over their child.

Sources close to the situation say the accusations, which allegedly played a key role in the breakdown of the marriage, were never fully resolved in private. At the time of the split, friends insist Emily chose discretion over confrontation, determined to protect her family from a public war of words. But years on, that fragile truce has collapsed.

According to insiders, tensions reignited when disagreements over parenting arrangements escalated. What began as a dispute over schedules and boundaries has reportedly evolved into a full-scale legal showdown, with both sides prepared to revisit painful chapters from the past. Allegations that Emily’s former partner had an affair before the divorce—claims he has not publicly admitted—are said to be back on the table, complicating an already raw situation.

For Emily, the timing could not be more difficult. Known to millions as Marilyn Chambers, one of Summer Bay’s most enduring and compassionate figures, she has long been admired for her warmth both on and off screen. Colleagues describe her as fiercely private when it comes to family matters, which makes this renewed conflict all the more distressing.

“Emily’s priority has always been her child,” one source claims. “She’s not interested in rehashing the past for revenge. But when parenting arrangements are threatened, she feels she has no choice but to stand her ground.”

The dispute is reportedly centred on what is best for their child’s stability—where they live, how time is shared, and who has the final say on major decisions. Friends say emotions have been running high, with old wounds reopening as legal teams dig through the history of the relationship.

Fans of Home and Away have been quick to voice support, flooding social media with messages of solidarity. Many point out the cruel irony that while Emily continues to portray strength and empathy on screen, she is being forced to navigate a deeply personal storm away from the cameras.

Industry insiders stress that this remains a private legal matter, and details are understandably limited. Still, the situation highlights a harsh reality for public figures: even years after a separation, unresolved issues can erupt when children are involved.

As the custody battle unfolds, those close to Emily say she is leaning on friends, family, and her work to stay grounded. Whether the conflict can be resolved without further heartbreak remains to be seen. For now, one thing is clear—this is a chapter she never wanted to relive, but one she is determined to face with the same resilience that has defined her career.