In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fanbase, rising star Hailey Pinto has confirmed she is pregnant — and the father is none other than one of her co-stars on the long-running soap!

The 24-year-old actress, who joined the cast of the iconic Summer Bay drama just last year, has remained notoriously private about her personal life — until now.

Sources close to the production have revealed that Hailey, who plays fiery newcomer Mia Donovan, is expecting her first child, and the father is a well-established cast member who is reportedly 34 years old. The pair’s off-screen romance had previously flown under the radar, but insiders say sparks have been flying behind the scenes for months.

“Everyone on set is absolutely floored,” a production insider told Soap Weekly. “We knew they were close, but no one realised just how serious it had become — let alone that they were expecting a baby!”

While the identity of the father hasn’t been officially confirmed, speculation is rife that it could be fan favourite Lachlan Hunt, who plays brooding heartthrob Dean and is known for keeping his dating life away from the public eye. Lachlan, who turned 34 earlier this year, has worked on the show since 2019 and has a strong following among loyal viewers.

“They’ve always had an incredible on-screen dynamic, but people are starting to realise now that there might have been something real brewing behind those intense scenes,” a source close to the actors revealed.

Hailey’s representatives confirmed the pregnancy in a brief but heartfelt statement this week, saying:

“Hailey is excited to embrace this next chapter of her life. She is healthy, happy, and focused on her wellbeing and work. She thanks her fans for their continued support.”

The announcement has sparked a media frenzy, with fans flooding social media to voice their support — and their questions.

“Is this going to be written into the show?”
“Wait — WHO is the dad??”
“So happy for Hailey, but I need answers!”

While the network has declined to comment on how Hailey’s pregnancy might affect future storylines, sources suggest that writers are “in discussion” about how to adapt to the unexpected news. There’s even talk that her real-life pregnancy could be incorporated into Mia’s storyline, adding a dramatic new twist to her character’s arc.

This isn’t the first time Home and Away has seen romance blossom behind the scenes, but the age gap and sudden pregnancy have added an extra layer of intrigue to this real-life plot twist.

“It’s a lot, especially given the difference in their ages,” another insider shared. “But they seem really happy, and that’s what matters.”

Hailey, who is believed to be around three months along, is currently continuing to film with the show, though there is speculation that she may take a break early next year.

As for the mystery man? Neither he nor Hailey have confirmed the relationship publicly — but with the news now out in the open, fans are watching closely to see if the couple will make it Instagram official any time soon.

One thing’s for sure — Summer Bay isn’t the only place where the drama’s heating up!