'Packed to the Rafters' star has decided to not return for the revival

Publish Date
Wednesday, 11 December 2019, 11:46AM

Last week, fans of Packed to the Rafters were celebrating after it was announced the cast of the series would be reuniting to revive the beloved show.

However, unfortunately, it looks like one fan favourite won't be returning.

According to reports, James Stewart, who played Jake Barton, won't be joining the reunion show as he is "too tied up" with filming for Australian soap Home and Away.

While he also did not want to have to work with his ex-fiancee, Jessica Marais, who plays Rachel Rafter, again.

Apparently James "would find it incredibly awkward to star opposite his ex-fiancee Jessica Marais on the show where they fell in love."

"They might be on good terms for the sake of their daughter Scout, but to be castmates again would be too weird," a source revealed.

READ MORE:
• Australian series 'Packed to the Rafters' is officially set for a revival in 2020!

The pair were together for six years, and had their daughter Scout in May 2012, before splitting in 2015.

James is now married to his Home and Away co-star Sarah Roberts.

Packed to the Rafters ran for six years until July 2013, and the new season will pick up where the old one left off.

Jessica will be returning to the show along with Rebecca Gibney (Julie), Erik Thomson (Dave), Hugh Sheridan (Ben), Angus McLaren (Nathan), Michael Caton (Ted Taylor) and George Houvardas (Nick Karandonis).

Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you