In a devastating and completely unannounced turn of events, Home and Away fans have been left reeling after the shocking on-screen death of one of Summer Bay’s most beloved residents — John Palmer.

Viewers were blindsided this week when John (played by Shane Withington) suddenly collapsed after suffering a severe stroke, marking the end of an era for the long-running soap. What began as a seemingly ordinary day in the Bay turned to tragedy in moments — and heartbreak quickly followed when doctors confirmed John hadn’t survived.

For years, John Palmer has been the heart and humour of Summer Bay — a man whose gruff exterior often masked his deep compassion and unwavering loyalty to his friends and community. From his time running the Surf Club to his tumultuous romances, John has been at the centre of some of the show’s most memorable storylines. But nothing could prepare viewers for his sudden and emotional exit.

Sources close to the show reveal that the death was deliberately kept under wraps to deliver maximum emotional impact. “No one outside the production team knew this was coming,” an insider told TV Buzz. “Even some of the cast only learned about the storyline days before filming. It was done that way to make sure the reactions felt raw and real — and they absolutely did.”

The emotional scenes that followed John’s collapse saw Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) by his bedside in heartbreaking disbelief. The two characters have shared one of the show’s most enduring friendships, often leaning on each other through loss and laughter alike. In a cruel twist, Irene had promised to look out for John as he entered a new chapter of his life — but fate had other plans.

Fans took to social media immediately after the episode aired, flooding timelines with tributes to both the character and actor. “John Palmer was the soul of Summer Bay,” one fan wrote. “I can’t believe he’s gone — it feels like losing a real friend.”

While Channel 7 has yet to release an official statement, actor Shane Withington is believed to have quietly filmed his final scenes earlier this year. After more than a decade on the show, his departure marks the end of a legacy that began in 2009.

Those close to Withington say he wanted his exit to be “honest and meaningful,” reflecting the unpredictability of real life. “He didn’t want a big stunt or dramatic farewell,” a source shared. “He wanted to go out the way John lived — suddenly, sincerely, and with a touch of shock.”

As Summer Bay prepares to say its final goodbye to John Palmer, one thing is certain — Home and Away will never quite be the same again.