In news that has sent Home and Away viewers reeling with shock, delight and more than a little disbelief, long-time fan favourite John Palmer has announced the birth of a baby boy, leaving both the Bay and the fandom buzzing with speculation, excitement and a tidal wave of emotional reactions.

The actor revealed the news late last night through a brief but heartfelt statement, confirming that he welcomed a healthy son after what insiders describe as a “quiet, deeply personal and overwhelmingly emotional” birth. While Palmer has always maintained a fiercely guarded private life off-screen, this time he allowed a glimpse behind the curtain — and it was enough to send the entertainment world spinning.

According to a close friend of the star, the arrival has rocked his world in the best possible way. “He wasn’t expecting this chapter,” the source confided. “But when he held his son for the first time, everything changed instantly. He’s absolutely besotted. Completely lost to fatherhood already.”

ON-SET SHOCKWAVES

Back in the bustling world of Home and Away production, the announcement reportedly landed like a thunderbolt. Castmates were said to be caught entirely off guard, many learning the news only moments before the public did. One insider described a “collective gasp” in the dressing rooms as the cast opened their phones to see the surprise statement.

Producers have confirmed that filming schedules are being discreetly reworked as the actor takes a short hiatus to settle into life as a new dad. While they’ve kept details under wraps, whispers suggest upcoming scripts may be temporarily restructured to accommodate his absence — a move that highlights just how integral Palmer has become to the show after more than a decade on screen.

CAST RALLY AROUND THEIR MATE

The Home and Away family has wasted no time flooding the new father with support. Several castmates have already sent flowers, clothes, books and gifts, with one co-star reportedly organising a special “Welcome to the World” hamper featuring handmade items from the Bay’s much-loved fictional businesses — a tongue-in-cheek nod only insiders would appreciate.

Another cast member is understood to have offered nightly meal deliveries for the next fortnight, ensuring the new dad doesn’t burn out in the haze of sleepless nights and newborn chaos.

THE NAME MYSTERY THAT HAS FANS OBSESSED

Perhaps the biggest question gripping fans right now? The baby boy’s name. While Palmer has opted to keep those details private for the moment, speculation has erupted online. Some believe he will choose a traditional Australian name, while others are convinced he’ll honour a family member. A darker corner of the rumour mill insists he may choose something “Summer Bay inspired.”

For now, no clues. No hints. Just mounting anticipation.

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS

As the dust settles on the shocking announcement, one thing is clear: this marks a heartfelt, life-altering turn for a man who has given Home and Away some of its most memorable moments. Fans are jubilant, castmates are celebrating, and the Bay — both fictional and real — is awash with joy.