Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart announce engagement after Coogee Beach proposal

Home and Away co-stars, who play husband and wife on screen, take the next step in their real-life romance after two years together.

Beloved Home and Away stars Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart have announced their engagement, revealing the romantic Valentine’s weekend proposal that has delighted fans across Australia.

Stewart, 50, proposed to Nicodemou, 48, at Goldstein Reserve near Coogee Beach in Sydney’s east, dropping to one knee in a moment captured on video and later shared on social media.

Nicodemou posted footage of the proposal on Sunday, captioning it simply: “I said yes!!!” The video shows onlookers applauding as she admired her diamond ring, visibly emotional, while Stewart lifted her into the air before the pair shared a kiss.

James Stewart down on one knee proposing to Ada Nicodemou. Photos: @adanicodemou/Instagram

The engagement marks a significant milestone for the couple, who have been dating for two years. Their real-life romance blossomed after years of working together on Home and Away, where they portray Leah Patterson-Baker and Justin Morgan.

Nicodemou has played Leah since 2000, appearing in more than 3,100 episodes of the long-running Australian drama. Stewart joined the cast in 2016, with their characters marrying on screen in 2024 — the same year the pair confirmed their off-screen relationship.

Their on-screen chemistry quickly became a fan favourite, earning a nomination for Best Soap Couple at the 2025 Digital Spy Reader Awards.

News of the engagement drew an outpouring of support from fellow cast members and Australian personalities. Long-time co-star Lynne McGranger wrote: “Oh my heart! So thrilled for both of you!” while Emily Symons added: “This is the most wonderful news!”

The couple later shared a photo beaming after the proposal, with Nicodemou proudly displaying her engagement ring.

While wedding plans have yet to be revealed, fans are already celebrating what many have described as a real-life fairytale for one of Australian television’s most enduring stars.