Alf Stewart has once again been named the most popular character in Home and Away history, just weeks before the show’s 37th anniversary. This title was confirmed through a poll conducted by the Australian soap website Back to the Bay, which asked viewers worldwide to vote for their favorite character from the past 37 years. The poll received thousands of votes, cementing Alf’s place at the top.

Alf was first introduced as a widower who was selling the Caravan Park to the Fletcher family, following the supposed death of his wife, Martha, three years earlier. His life soon took another turn when he married Elsa Hogan, much to the dismay of his teenage daughter, Roo. The couple welcomed a son, Duncan, in 1989. Over time, Alf uncovered more family secrets, including the revelation that he had two illegitimate children, Quinn Jackson and the late Doby, adding further layers to his complex family dynamic.

In a shocking twist, Alf’s first wife, Martha, was revealed to have faked her death. This revelation came to light in 2018, and it was followed by a heartfelt reunion. The couple remarried in 2020, after years of separation, bringing closure to their turbulent relationship.

Throughout his long tenure in Summer Bay, Alf has endured numerous life-threatening situations. He survived his store collapsing during an earthquake while simultaneously suffering a heart attack. He’s also been a hero in many of Summer Bay’s natural disasters, participating in rescue missions, and even losing his home in a devastating mudslide. In addition to these tragedies, Alf has been wrongfully imprisoned twice—once for fraud and once for murder—only to later clear his name. He also had a brief, complicated relationship with a woman who turned out to be his half-niece.

Alf’s time on Home and Away also saw him play an unexpected role when he carried the Olympic torch through Summer Bay. This was part of a prank played on the original torchbearer, Don Fischer, showcasing Alf’s ability to remain a key figure, even when the unexpected occurs.

Alf Stewart’s resilience, his ongoing presence, and his complex family life have made him a cornerstone of Home and Away, and his position as the most popular character remains undisputed. The character’s long journey through love, loss, adventure, and personal discovery has solidified his place in the hearts of viewers worldwide, ensuring that Alf Stewart’s legacy will continue to thrive for years to come.