It’s been over two decades since McLeod’s Daughters first graced our screens, and yet the love for the Australian outback drama – and its memorable cast – remains as strong as ever.
For eight unforgettable seasons between 2001 and 2009, McLeod’s Daughters had us completely hooked. It was the ultimate Aussie drama—equal parts heartwarming, heartbreaking, and downright addictive. Set against the stunning South Australian countryside, the show followed the McLeod sisters as they took the reins of Drovers Run, navigating farm life, family feuds, romance, and tragedy.
At its peak, McLeod’s Daughters was a cultural phenomenon. It was the most-watched Australian drama on television, pulling in millions of viewers each week and cementing itself as a staple of early-2000s TV. The show didn’t just entertain—it paved the way for more female-led Australian dramas, proving that stories about strong, independent women belonged front and centre.
Even years after its final episode aired, the love for McLeod’s Daughters remains strong. Whether you were tuning in for the epic love stories, the unexpected plot twists (seriously, Jodi in witness protection?!), or just the pure joy of watching Tess and Claire run the farm, there was something for everyone. And thanks to streaming services, a whole new generation has discovered the magic of Drovers Run.
But what have the stars of McLeod’s Daughters been up to since the final curtain fell? From Hollywood pursuits to life away from the limelight, here’s where the beloved cast is now.
Bridie Carter (Tess McLeod)
Bridie Carter played Tess McLeod, the spirited younger sister who arrived at Drovers Run in season one and quickly became the heart and soul of McLeod’s Daughters. She remained a central character until season six, when Tess left for Argentina.
Since her time on the show, Carter has stayed busy in the Australian film and TV industry, appearing in Home and Away, Doctor Doctor, and Five Bedrooms. She also competed on Dancing with the Stars: All Stars, charming audiences with her graceful moves.
Outside of acting, Carter is an advocate for mental health awareness and the arts, regularly speaking about the importance of creative industries. She enjoys a quieter life with her husband and children in Byron Bay, often sharing snapshots of her countryside lifestyle with fans. Despite the years that have passed, she still treasures her time on McLeod’s Daughters and remains a favourite at fan events.
Lisa Chappell (Claire McLeod)
Lisa Chappell starred as Claire McLeod, the tough yet deeply loving eldest McLeod sister. She was a lead character from season one until her heartbreaking death in season three—a moment that left fans in shock, and we’re all still reeling to be honest.
After leaving the show, Chappell pursued a career in theatre and music, releasing her own album that showcased her folk-inspired sound. She’s also had roles in Rescue: Special Ops, The Cult, and Stingers, proving her versatility as an actress.
While she largely stepped away from mainstream TV, she remains a favourite at fan conventions and still engages with the McLeod’s community. In recent years, Chappell has focused on her passion for writing and environmental activism, advocating for sustainable practices and conservation efforts.
Aaron Jeffery (Alex Ryan)
New Zealand actor, Aaron Jeffery played Alex Ryan, the rugged farmer and Tess McLeod’s great love. He was a mainstay on the show from season one to seven, when Alex’s character met a tragic fate. The dashing Alex Ryan was a core part of the McLeod’s Daughters charm, and Aaron Jeffery has continued to shine in Aussie dramas.
Following his McLeod’s days, Jeffery went on to star in Wentworth, Underbelly Files: Chopper, and Water Rats, showcasing his range as an actor.
His portrayal of notorious criminal Mark “Chopper” Read in Underbelly earned him major acclaim, proving he could take on gritty, intense roles. Outside of acting, Jeffery has also stepped into directing and mentoring aspiring actors. Though he keeps a lower profile these days, he still makes appearances in Australian film and television, ensuring his legacy in the industry remains strong.
Simmone Jade Mackinnon (Stevie Hall)
Simmone Jade Mackinnon joined McLeod’s Daughters in season three as Stevie Hall, the feisty and fearless horse trainer who became a fan favourite. She remained on the show until the very end in season eight.Since her McLeod’s days, Simmone Jade Mackinnon has popped up in Rescue: Special Ops and The Cut, but she’s largely stepped back from acting.
Instead, Mackinnon has embraced a new lifestyle, running her own business, Wandering Ozzie, which celebrates van life and outback adventures. Through her brand, she shares her love for travel, the Australian landscape, and simple living. As a devoted mother, she often speaks about the joys and challenges of parenting while living an unconventional lifestyle.
Recently, Mackinnon made a return to the small screen in 2023 as a contestant on the Survivor-style reality series The Summit. The physically demanding series saw her pushing herself to the limit in the rugged New Zealand Alps, proving she’s just as tough in real life as she was on McLeod’s Daughters. Her resilience and down-to-earth personality made her a fan favourite on the series, reintroducing her to a whole new audience.
While she may not be acting full-time anymore, her adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors continue to define her post-McLeod’s journey.
Rachael Carpani (Jodi Fountain)
Jodi Fountain’s dramatic storyline twists (secret McLeod daughter, fake death, witness protection!) were peak McLeod’s Daughters drama. Since then, Rachael Carpani has continued to build her career in television.
She starred in the U.S. police drama Against the Wall, along with guest appearances in NCIS: Los Angeles, 800 Words, and Stalker. In 2024, she joined the cast of another Australian soap favourite – Home and Away. Carpani splits her time between Australia and the U.S., balancing her career between the two countries.
Despite her many roles, she remains closely associated with McLeod’s Daughters and frequently shares fond memories of her time on set.
Myles Pollard (Nick Ryan)
Nick Ryan was everyone’s dream farmer, and Myles Pollard has kept busy since leaving Drovers Run. He’s appeared in Home and Away, Rescue: Special Ops, and even had a role in Wolverine.
Beyond acting, Pollard has shifted his focus to filmmaking and teaching. Passionate about nurturing new talent, he runs acting workshops and has directed several short films. His love for storytelling continues, whether he’s in front of the camera or behind it.
Brett Tucker (Dave Brewer)
Brett Tucker played Dave Brewer, the charming local vet who appeared from season three to season seven. He’s had an impressive post-McLeod’s career, finding success in both Australia and Hollywood, with roles in Mistresses, The Americans, and Grey’s Anatomy. Most recently, he’s been cast in Netflix’s highly anticipated series The Residence, further cementing his status as a versatile international actor.
Michala Banas (Kate Manfredi)
Michala Banas joined the series in season four as Kate Manfredi, the sweet but determined farmhand who eventually took over Drovers Run. She remained on the show until season eight. Since then, Banas has stayed active in the Australian TV industry, appearing in equally-as-adored Always Greener, Winners & Losers, Upper Middle Bogan, and Playing for Keeps, showcasing her comedic and dramatic chops.
Is McLeod’s Daughters Making a Comeback?
Fans have been crying out for a McLeod’s Daughters reboot for years, and while nothing has been officially greenlit, whispers of a revival still float around. Creator Posie Graeme-Evans previously teased a sequel project, McLeod’s Daughters: The Next Generation, but it has yet to materialise.
In the meantime, the original series remains a nostalgic comfort watch for many. With streaming services making McLeod’s Daughters easily accessible, a whole new generation of fans has fallen in love with Drovers Run.
For now, we can only rewatch the series (for the 100th time) and keep our fingers crossed for a return to Drovers Run.
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