Neighbours star makes a shock return to Australia after 18 years in Hollywood – following apparent split with tattooed bar manager boyfriend

As a dedicated follower of Hollywood’s glittering scene, I can’t help but admire Nicky Whelan’s journey from Aussie soap star to Hollywood actress and back again. Her resilience and adaptability are truly inspiring! Eighteen years in Los Angeles, nearly half her life, yet she feels the pull of home stronger now than ever.


After spending 18 years in Los Angeles, an Australian actress who was once a popular soap star, has returned to her homeland.

Originally recognized on the Australian soap opera “Neighbours” as Pepper Steiger from 2006 to 2007, Nicky Whelan, aged 43, swifty departed the widely-adored show to pursue a successful career in the United States.

After running out of work opportunities in Los Angeles and ending her relationship with Steven Hiles, a bar manager in Sydney, the actress is now back in Melbourne, as reported by Herald Sun on Wednesday.

Nicky acknowledged that numerous projects are being produced where they currently are, but none are being created in Los Angeles. She confessed that she has already engaged local talent representatives to explore opportunities in Australia for her.

For approximately nineteen years, I’ve lived in Los Angeles, which means I’ve almost spent a quarter of my entire life there. At the time I relocated, I was around 25 or 26 years old. However, lately, I find myself yearning to return home.

Next, Nicky openly admitted, “Since I’m unattached now, I have the freedom to travel extensively, much like a nomadic gypsy,” implying that she and Steven, whom she was recently spotted affectionately with in September, have parted ways.

Back in the vibrant city of Melbourne, I was there – front and center – when she made her romantic entrance. It was none other than the charismatic starlet herself, at RIXX Eyewear’s 8th anniversary bash held at Bar Bambi. And who did she have by her side but a ruggedly handsome tattooed bar manager. What a night to remember!

Earlier this year, they were observed showing affectionate signs at Barney’s Beanery in West Hollywood before the mentioned incident occurred.

They seemed deeply absorbed in one another, exchanging private moments that couldn’t be missed by those around them.

It appears that Nicky and Steven were in a solid relationship, as indicated by their first shared photo on social media back in December of the previous year. However, it now looks like they’ve parted ways.

Nicky and actor Frank Grillo were once romantically involved, but they ended their relationship after approximately 18 months of dating.

In November, a photographer outside the West Hollywood restaurant Craig’s inquired whether Frank was romantically involved with the Australian actress. To this, he responded: “That’s past. I am currently single.

Nicky married former NFL player Kerry Rhodes in October 2017, but they separated six months later.

In terms of my return to Melbourne, I must admit that while I’ll still be anchored in sunny Los Angeles, I find myself drawn more towards Australia these days. It simply aligns better with my current lifestyle.

She additionally expressed that she wishes to send her affection towards Melbourne, as she was deeply saddened when her French Bulldog passed away.

The blonde beauty famously played the role of Pepper Steiger in Neighbours from 2006 until 2007.

She went on to carve out a career for herself in Los Angeles, and has starred in movies such as Hall Pass and The Wedding Ringer.

This year, Nicky disclosed the significant steps she undertook to enhance her wellbeing, after her unsuccessful marriage to former NFL athlete, Kerry, ended.

In October 2017, the Australian actress parted ways with Kerry (who was 41 at the time), only six months following their wedding ceremony.

Following their separation, Nicky disclosed on the Talk Scary To Me podcast that she abstained from sexual activity for approximately two years as a means to rejuvenate both her physical self and lifestyle.

She mentioned that she had a break from all activities for about two years. It’s as if she tossed aside smoking and drinking – even though her drinking habit wasn’t significant to begin with, she was quite addicted to cigarettes.

For the past two years, I abstained from dating, socializing, physical intimacy, or any form of interaction, including sexual activity.

The Chosen star said it was the best decision she’s ever made for her mind and body.

Read More

2024-11-28 08:35