In heartbreaking news that has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fan community, actress Hailey Pinto has revealed she is facing a serious medical condition that will require chemotherapy in the coming weeks — a development so severe that she may be forced to step away from acting entirely.

The rising star, whose emotional performances and onscreen charisma have earned her a devoted following, confirmed the diagnosis in a private statement later shared publicly, describing the news as “the hardest battle of my life” and admitting she is preparing for a long and difficult road ahead.

A Diagnosis That Changes Everything

According to early reports, Hailey sought medical help after experiencing persistent symptoms during filming. What she initially dismissed as exhaustion quickly escalated into something far more worrying when doctors ran additional tests. The results left the actress stunned.

“The specialists told me the condition is aggressive,” Hailey shared. “I didn’t expect to hear the word chemotherapy. I didn’t expect to hear it this young.”

The emotional weight of the diagnosis has already taken a toll, with insiders revealing the actress has been quietly preparing her family — and the Home and Away production team — for the possibility that treatment will disrupt her career indefinitely.

May Need to Step Back From Summer Bay

While Hailey has not confirmed her departure, insiders say the conversation has already begun behind the scenes.

Production schedules have reportedly been adjusted in anticipation of her absence, and writers have begun developing alternate storylines depending on how her health unfolds. Although the team remains hopeful, there is a strong possibility that Hailey’s character will be written out temporarily — or in the worst case, permanently — if her treatment requires long-term recovery.

One crew member described the atmosphere on set as “somber but supportive,” adding, “Everyone is rallying behind her. But the reality is, chemotherapy is gruelling. We don’t know how long she’ll be able to keep filming.”

Fans Rally as Tributes Pour In

The moment news broke, fans rushed to social media to express their shock and heartbreak. Many praised Hailey’s strength and vulnerability, while others shared their own stories of the battle against illness.

Viewers who have watched her rise over the past year are devastated, especially given how central her character has become to several major storylines. Fan pages have already launched supportive campaigns, urging Hailey to focus on her health above all else and promising to welcome her back whenever she is ready.

A Brave Fight Ahead

Despite the gravity of the situation, Hailey has shown remarkable courage, assuring her supporters that she is determined to fight.

“I want to stay positive,” she said. “I don’t know what the next few months will look like, but I’m going to give everything I have to this battle.”

Industry colleagues have echoed that resilience, calling her “one of the brightest talents of the new Home and Away generation” and expressing hope that she will one day return stronger than ever.

A Community Holding Its Breath

As Hailey prepares to begin chemotherapy, the entire Home and Away family — cast, crew, and millions of viewers — awaits further updates. For now, the priority is her health, and her future in the series remains uncertain.

What remains clear is this: Hailey Pinto is facing the toughest challenge of her life, and Summer Bay may soon lose one of its most beloved young stars.