In a twist worthy of a primetime finale, Home and Away favourite Emily Symons has stunned fans and industry insiders alike with a surprise announcement that she is expecting her second child — and the father is none other than a long-time veteran of the iconic soap.

The 55-year-old actress, beloved for her decades-long portrayal of the ever-glamorous Marilyn Chambers, revealed the news during what was meant to be a low-key cast gathering in Sydney last weekend. According to an insider who spoke exclusively to us, the room “fell silent before erupting into cheers” as Emily placed a hand on her stomach and shared her life-changing update.

But the bigger shock? She quietly confirmed that the father is a Home and Away veteran actor she has grown close to over the past year — someone who has been part of the show’s history “on and off for decades.”

While Emily did not name him publicly, multiple production sources say the pair’s chemistry had become undeniable on and off the set, with colleagues noticing their warm, almost nostalgic bond. One insider revealed, “Everyone assumed they were just old friends who’d rediscovered a spark after years of working together… but no one expected this.”

According to another source, the father — described as “well-loved, respected, and a true old-school Summer Bay icon” — has already been spotted accompanying Emily to appointments and running errands in Palm Beach between filming days. Insiders say he has been “incredibly supportive, protective, and absolutely over the moon” about the news.

Emily, who welcomed her first child, Henry, in 2015, has previously spoken about the joys and challenges of later-in-life motherhood. Friends say she had never expected to grow her family again — which makes the pregnancy an “emotional miracle” for her. “Emily was glowing, genuinely glowing. She kept saying she couldn’t believe it was happening,” a source shared.

Producers of Home and Away are reportedly working closely with Emily to navigate filming schedules. While no storyline adjustments have been confirmed, there is speculation that Marilyn’s on-screen world may shift to accommodate the actress’s real-life journey. “Marilyn is such a beloved character. If they weave this into the show, it could create some of the most heartfelt moments we’ve seen from her in years,” says a long-time crew member.

Fans, meanwhile, have exploded online with excitement, curiosity, and a flood of well-wishes. Social media posts have already sparked wild theories about the identity of the mystery veteran father, with names of past and present Summer Bay favourites circulating in frenzied speculation. Still, Emily is choosing to remain private — for now.

What is certain is that this unexpected baby news has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away community, promising a heart-warming real-life chapter for one of the show’s most adored stars.

And as for the veteran father? All signs suggest he’ll be stepping into one of the biggest roles of his life — proudly, quietly, and right by Emily’s side.