Abigail Fowler actress opens up about the condition that could end her acting career

A Rising Star Facing Her Toughest Battle

Home and Away fans were left stunned this week as Hailey Pinto, who plays the fiery and lovable Abigail Fowler, revealed that her health has deteriorated to the point where she may soon need chemotherapy. For the breakout star, who joined the cast in 2024, the diagnosis has been life‑altering — and potentially career‑ending.

In an emotional interview, Pinto shared that her condition is serious enough that she is preparing for the possibility of stepping away from acting entirely.
“I may have to retire from acting…” she admitted, explaining the intense physical challenges she’s been battling behind the scenes.

From Jump Rope Stages to Summer Bay

Before stepping into the world of soap drama, Hailey was an energetic kid who stumbled into performing through competitive jump rope — a sport she trained in from the age of three until early adolescence. Fundraising performances were her first introduction to acting, though she didn’t recognise it at the time.

Growing up between cultures — with a Swiss mother and Portuguese father — Pinto says her childhood shaped her passion for creativity and adventure. She was even born in Switzerland and has fond memories of returning for family visits (and plenty of fondue).

A Fighter On and Off Screen

Despite her rising success, Hailey has lived with hypermobility, a condition that leaves her joints fragile and prone to dislocation. At one point, a spinal injury left her in a wheelchair. Only intense physical training keeps her stable enough to perform.

“I fall apart all the time,” she joked gently, “but I keep my muscles strong so I can do what I love.”

Her passion for Muay Thai and archery helps maintain her strength — and even brings unexpected fun on set, especially when co‑star Ethan Browne joins her for friendly sparring sessions.

A Story of Resilience Fans Never Knew

Hailey’s health struggles also explain why she has connected so deeply with certain book characters, especially the physically challenged heroine Violet Sorrenghail from Fourth Wing. Landing a role in that adaptation would be a dream, she admitted — though her current health battle puts her future into question.

Even so, she remains grounded and grateful, especially for her on‑screen siblings Tristan Gorey and Steph Panozzo.
“They do feel like real family,” she said. “I’m so privileged to be part of the Fowlers.”

What Happens Next?

For now, Hailey is focused on her health and preparing for whatever comes next — including the difficult possibility of chemotherapy and the impact it may have on her time in Summer Bay.