The behind-the-scenes information wowed viewers of the popular Channel 7 drama, with one admitting it was the “coolest” spoiler they had ever read.
Viewers of Home and Away were ecstatic to meet Dean Thompson and Ziggy Astoni’s baby last week.
Fans were taken aback by the mother of the baby used in the scene after she revealed some behind-the-scenes information in a Facebook post.
Fans were shocked to learn that the baby, who was born to actors Sophie Dillman and Patrick O’Connor as Ziggy and Dean, was actually a boy named Charlie. Ziggy and Dean welcomed a baby girl into Summer Bay.
“Thompson, the baby girl, was born last night. Helen, a proud mother, began on the Home and Away Spoilers and Info Facebook page, “AKA my son Charlie.
She explained, “The frown he pulls in the opening scene was him doing a poo which exploded out of his diaper.
Dillman’s reaction to the on-air mishap was praised by Helen, who called it “super professional” and said that Dillman “carried on regardless.”
She then revealed some interesting details, such as the fact that Charlie was only three weeks old when the movie was filmed.
According to the NSW government, babies under the age of 12 weeks require authorization from a registered nurse or midwife in order to participate in TV filming.
In addition, the newborn must weigh more than 3 kg at birth, be delivered at term, have no postpartum issues, be feeding normally, and have gained a satisfactory amount of weight since giving birth.
Charlie had gained 4kg by the time he was a part of the filming.
“A nurse visits and assesses feeding, weight, and general health prior to filming. Because of this, not every newborn can be used; they need to be cleared at least a week or two in advance, Helen said.
Additionally, no mother wants to watch TV right after giving birth.
The new mum added that newborns can only be held by two actors during the day.
For Charlie, the chosen two were Dillman and Cassandra – who played the midwife.
‘Awesome experience’
She stated that the infant that was transferred to the character of Karen Thompson (played by Georgia Adamson) during one scene was not Charlie, but another tot according to this rule.
“So he’s the baby in the scenes, however, the baby passed to Karen was another baby. Charlie had been held by Cassandra the midwife and Sophie/Ziggy already,” she wrote.
“This was his only day of filming, following sequences are dolls or older babies (all of which are boys).”
Helen responded to a remark that it depended on “which babies are available I think” by outlining the lineup of male babies. At that age, it doesn’t seem to matter much.
Charlie “simply had Sudocrem on his head,” the mother continued, “to simulate a newly born baby.”
Fans of the soap commented, thanking the mother for the insightful information.
“They’re really fascinating information! I appreciate you sharing,” said one.
Interesting information, wow. adore this Thanks!!” one more said.
A third person remarked, “What a great experience that would be, bubba is just so cute.”
The mother’s message, according to one commenter, was “the coolest thing I’ve ever read on this page.”
