Long-running Home and Away cast member announces shock departure

Radovich (L) played Alf Stewart's grandson in the popular soap. Photo / Georgie Parker/Instagram

Home and Away star Lukas Radovich, who plays Ryder Jackson, has announced his departure from the popular Aussie soap.

The 27-year-old took to Instagram to share his feelings on ending five years playing Jackson, the grandson of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher).

"What an incredible ride. I can't really express how the last 5 years has felt or impacted my life so I'll keep it short. I'll miss the job, but most importantly I'll miss the people," Radovich wrote.

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Radovich's character has been part of some notable storylines, including when he was nearly kissed by his character's former best friend Ty, one of the soap's few same-sex plot lines.

He also survived being buried alive when a prank went wrong in a cliffhanger episode the actor described as "challenging".

"When I saw that the call sheet just had my name on it for the entire day, I knew it was going to be big," he told 7News.

"It was challenging to learn, and to be covered in dirt for such a long time. But it was also the most rewarding."