Why I’m leaving

With her stunning smile and model proportions, Esther Anderson certainly has the looks to take on Hollywood.

And after three-and-a-half years of juicy storylines in her role as Summer Bay’s straight-talking cop Charlie Buckton, Esther has the acting cred to join the long list of Home and Away graduates who have gone on to superstardom. Just don’t put too much pressure on this 32-year-old actress! ‘Everyone’s like, "Oh, Home and Away, so many people have done so well", and I’m like, "Yeah, but you do only hear the success stories!",’ Esther laughs. ‘I just want to take my own steps and try and see what’s meant to be for me next.’ As she prepares for life after Summer Bay, Esther tells OK! about her decision to leave the show, her plans to take on LA and what she really thinks about the body pressure in the industry…

It was a shock for your fans to see Charlie die… When did you decide your time was up on the show?
It feels like a while ago now because we film three months ahead, and then they plot the storyline three months before that, so for about six months I’ve known. It’s been a long time to keep it a secret!

You’ve become such a favourite on the show – was it hard to walk away?
Yeah, definitely, it was a very difficult decision.

I absolutely loved my job and I had such a wonderful experience on Home and Away, so it wasn’t that there was any real reason for leaving except that it just felt like the right time.

My contract had ended, and if I didn’t leave now I think it would have been really difficult to ever leave.

It’s great to leave before I’m getting itchy feet. I’d just like to leave on a note where I’m still enjoying it so much, and I don’t feel I’ve outgrown it. If I don’t leave now I don’t know when I would, and because Home and Away’s been my first role, there’s just that little part in the back of my mind that wants a new challenge and is curious to see what other roles are out there.

For the exclusive interview, pick up a copy of this week's OK! magazine, on sale now!