Summer Bay is about to be shaken to its core. Next week on Home and Away, emotions run high, alliances are tested, and shocking revelations threaten to tear families apart.

From Adrian’s desperate bid to be acknowledged as Cohen’s father to Irene’s heartbreaking decision about her future, the coming episodes are nothing short of explosive.

Here’s everything fans need to know about the drama unfolding between September 8 and 12.

Adrian’s Arrival Sends Shockwaves Through Summer Bay

Roo’s carefully constructed plans come crashing down when she learns her adoption of Cohen has been put on hold. The reason? Adrian — a man claiming to be Cohen’s biological father — has stepped into the picture. Police insist that Cohen must undergo a DNA test, a revelation Roo simply cannot bring herself to explain honestly. Instead, she tells Cohen the test is merely a medical follow-up, a half-truth that sets the stage for devastating consequences.

Adrian, armed with a newborn photo and years of pent-up longing, turns up at the station determined to finally connect with his son. His raw desperation clashes head-on with Roo’s possessiveness, and sparks fly as David is forced to intervene. Roo refuses to back down, insisting Cohen belongs with her, but Adrian’s resolve is clear: he will not be erased from his child’s life.

Roo vs. Adrian: A Battle for Cohen’s Heart

The inevitable confrontation comes sooner than expected when Adrian introduces himself to Cohen on the beach. Confused and vulnerable, Cohen immediately begins questioning whether he has just met his real father. Roo, furious and panicked, drags Cash into the situation, demanding he shield Cohen from Adrian.

But Cash isn’t so quick to dismiss the man. Hearing Adrian’s heartfelt account of being cut off from his son and never given the chance to be part of his life, Cash begins to see the situation in a new light. Later, he confides in David, and the two agree: Adrian may actually make a good father. For Roo, this realization is devastating — not only is she losing her grip on Cohen, but she is losing the support of those around her.

ohen Torn Between Two Worlds

The emotional toll on Cohen is immediate and severe. His mind races with unanswered questions, yet Roo offers only evasions and reassurances. When Harper checks in, Cohen confesses that what he wants most is to stay with Roo in Summer Bay. But Harper gently warns him that it may not be possible.

Meanwhile, Roo crumbles under the weight of the truth she refuses to face. Supported by her loved ones but consumed by fear of losing Cohen, she stands on the precipice of heartbreak. Her desperation grows, but the more tightly she clings to Cohen, the more fragile her hold becomes.

Adrian Wins Over Alf

Perhaps the most shocking twist of the week comes when Alf, the patriarch of Summer Bay, weighs in. Known for his no-nonsense wisdom and fierce loyalty to family, Alf listens to Adrian’s story and — against all expectations — extends his support.

For Adrian, this moment is monumental. Earning Alf’s approval not only legitimizes his claim but also shifts the balance of power in his favor. Roo, meanwhile, feels betrayed. The one man she thought would stand unconditionally by her side has chosen to see merit in Adrian’s case. This revelation leaves Roo more isolated than ever before.

Mac and Levi’s IVF Journey Reaches a Crucial Stage

Amidst the turmoil, McKenzie and Levi push forward with their IVF treatment. Encouraged by positive test results, they begin their first round of trigger injections. Levi’s nerves about hurting Mac are calmed by her reassurance, but when she later experiences painful cramps, his protective instincts kick in.

As Mac rests, the couple reflect on their journey — a path filled with hope, fear, and the looming possibility of disappointment. Their story is a poignant reminder that love often requires resilience, even when the odds feel stacked against them.

Lacey’s Determination Leads to Trouble

Lacey’s quest for justice over her mother’s tragic death takes a dramatic turn. Hiring a private investigator, she digs deep into the past, only to be blindsided when the investigator abruptly drops the case. The reason? Their father’s position as a police sergeant.

Stunned and furious, Lacey feels cornered, but instead of backing down, she hatches a new plan — this time, focusing her efforts on helping Theo. She pressures Kirby to fire Theo, believing it will push him back to his “dream job” at the garage. But Theo sees straight through her manipulations and makes his own choice: his heart belongs with Justin and the garage.

Irene’s Brave but Heartbreaking Decision

In one of the most emotional storylines of the week, Irene begins preparing for the harsh reality of her Alzheimer’s progression. She gifts Leah the teapot that symbolized her battle with alcoholism, a gesture steeped in gratitude and finality. Though Leah and Marilyn plead with her to slow down, Irene is resolute — she wants her affairs in order before it’s too late.

Sunny’s lighthearted humor lifts her spirits briefly, but later that night, Irene confesses her regrets about the life she never lived. Urged to embrace adventure while she still can, she shocks everyone by announcing her plan to sell her home and travel the world.

Leah and Alf try to talk her out of it, but Irene refuses to yield. For her, this is not an ending but a beginning — a chance to reclaim joy before her illness robs her of the opportunity.

Romance, Reunions, and Heartbreak

Elsewhere in the Bay, Remy battles his stage fright once more. Fearing his anxiety will sabotage his rekindled romance with Bree, he almost backs out of performing. But with Eden by his side, he takes to the stage for a powerful duet that captivates the entire crowd. The performance reignites his confidence and seals his reunion with Bree in a passionate embrace.

Meanwhile, Joe and Tane’s attempt at rekindling their spark falters when Joe sabotages the evening out of jealousy. Though Tane shows understanding, the cracks in their relationship are becoming harder to ignore.

What Comes Next?

As the week closes, Summer Bay is left reeling. Adrian has won over Alf, dramatically shifting the dynamic of Cohen’s custody battle. Roo stands alone, forced to confront the possibility of losing the boy she considers her son. Irene’s decision to sell her home looms large, promising to reshape the Bay forever. And amidst it all, love stories rise, fall, and intertwine, reminding fans why Home and Away remains one of the most emotionally gripping dramas on television.

One thing is certain: the tides of Summer Bay are changing — and nothing will ever be the same again.