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Home and Away fans have been left stunned after Emily Weir, who has portrayed the strong-willed and resilient Mackenzie Booth since 2019, reportedly confirmed her departure from the long-running Australian soap. Her exit follows the dramatic imprisonment of Dr. Levi Fowler, marking one of the most emotional and game-changing moments in recent Summer Bay history.

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The Emotional Toll Behind the Scenes

While the Seven Network has yet to release an official statement, insiders close to production have revealed that Emily’s decision to leave was deeply personal. According to one source, “Emily’s storylines in recent months have been emotionally draining. The fallout from Levi’s storyline took a toll both on and off set.”

Mackenzie’s arc has seen her face heartbreak, betrayal, and loss time and time again, culminating in the recent plotline involving Levi’s arrest for medical misconduct and obstruction of justice. Once the man she trusted most, Levi’s downfall shattered Mac’s stability and left her questioning everything about her life in the Bay.

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Fans React to the News

As word of Emily’s departure spread, social media erupted. The hashtag #GoodbyeMac quickly began trending across X (formerly Twitter), with fans sharing emotional tributes and disbelief.

“No way. Mackenzie can’t leave! She is Home and Away,” wrote one heartbroken viewer.
“Emily Weir made Mackenzie one of the strongest characters in the Bay — this is the end of an era,” another posted.

Many long-time fans praised Weir’s ability to bring vulnerability and strength to a character who often served as the emotional anchor of the series.

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Rumours of Creative Tensions

Behind the curtain, whispers of creative differences may have played a role. A crew member reportedly told TV Week: “Emily wanted Mackenzie to evolve beyond constant heartbreak. She was pushing for more empowerment and less tragedy — she felt the character had more to give.”

This isn’t the first time a Home and Away exit has sparked speculation about behind-the-scenes strain, but Emily’s recent absence from promotional shoots has only intensified the rumours.

Adding further intrigue, the actress recently shared a cryptic Instagram story reading:

“Sometimes walking away is the bravest thing you can do.”

Fans quickly interpreted it as confirmation that her time as Mackenzie Booth had come to an end.

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A Legacy in the Bay

Since her debut, Mackenzie Booth has become one of Home and Away’s most layered female leads — a woman who faced love, betrayal, and personal loss while maintaining her signature fire and compassion. Her relationships, particularly with Levi, Ziggy, and Dean, defined some of the show’s most emotional years.

If her departure is permanent, it will mark the end of an era — and a major shake-up for the show’s core cast.

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Final Twist Still Possible?

Some fans, however, aren’t ready to believe it’s truly goodbye. Home and Away is known for its twists and shock returns, leading many to wonder whether this “exit” could be a storyline misdirection designed to keep audiences guessing ahead of the upcoming season finale.

Whether it’s a permanent farewell or a temporary break, Emily Weir’s departure will leave a huge void in Summer Bay. Her performance as Mackenzie Booth has been a cornerstone of the soap’s emotional storytelling — and fans aren’t ready to let her go.