Summer Bay is bracing for one of its darkest chapters yet, as insiders confirm that Nicole Franklin — played by fan-favourite Tessa James — will be killed off in a storyline already being described as “one of the most emotional tragedies in years.”

For months, viewers have speculated that something major was brewing behind the scenes, with producers teasing a “life-changing event” that would send shockwaves through the Bay. Now, a production insider tells us that Nicole’s final scenes have already been filmed — and they’re almost unbearably heartbreaking.

“It’s the end of an era,” the source reveals. “Nicole has been part of so many iconic moments. Her exit is raw, emotional and devastating. Fans won’t be prepared.”

A storyline shrouded in secrecy

Producers are keeping Nicole’s exact fate under lock and key, but whispers from the set hint at a gut-wrenching series of events that will unfold over several episodes. It’s believed the tragedy will occur during a dramatic coastal rescue gone wrong, leaving characters — and viewers — reeling.

Insiders say the scenes required intense rehearsals due to their emotional weight. Several cast members reportedly struggled to hold back tears during filming.

“Everyone felt it,” another source shares. “It didn’t feel like saying goodbye to a character — it felt like saying goodbye to a family member.”

Why Tessa James agreed to the emotional exit

Tessa, who first joined Home and Away as bright-spirited Nicole in 2008, has long remained a beloved part of the show’s legacy. Though she hasn’t appeared regularly for years, producers have brought her back periodically for special episodes that honour the character’s deep emotional ties to the Bay.

According to insiders, Tessa was approached several months ago with the idea for Nicole’s final chapter — and agreed immediately.

“She felt Nicole deserved a proper ending,” the insider explains. “Not a disappearance. Not an off-screen mention. A real story with real heart.”

And that’s exactly what viewers will get.

A farewell worthy of a Summer Bay legend

The storyline will reportedly culminate in a large-scale memorial episode, bringing together returning favourites and long-running cast members in one of the most emotionally charged goodbyes the series has delivered in years.

Executive producers are said to be preparing a tribute package celebrating Nicole’s most iconic moments — from her early days as a rebellious teen to her most dramatic heartbreaks and triumphs.

“Nicole changed the Bay,” says the source. “And fans are going to feel this loss deeply.”