Home and Away star Tessa De Josselin has discussed the research she carried out for Billie Ashford's harrowing rape ordeal.
In shocking scenes yet to be aired here in the UK, Billie was sexually assaulted by a masked gunman while alone in the gym.
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Billie's torment continued when she later learned that she was pregnant as a result of the attack, and De Josselin has said that her character will never be the same again.
"When I found out about the storyline, I did a lot of research," the 27-year-old actress told Stuff Entertainment. "It's a really shocking thing and I was aware of it when I was filming it because of that research."
"There are lots of support networks, websites and different avenues for women who have been attacked and I delved into a lot of that to get an understanding - more for the aftermath - about how women feel after an attack.
"You can imagine but you have no idea really unless it happens (to you) or you read first-hand accounts. It affects the rest of your life. It's not something that will ever go away."
De Josselin also shed some light on Billie's blossoming relationship with teenager VJ, who she will prepare to wed later this year.
"I did not see that coming at all," she said. "In a way, I think she uses his friendship as an escape from reality and everything that has happened to her.
"Billie is 23 and VJ is about 17. It's a big difference in real life, but I think it's okay. I think they've got as good a chance as any. Young love can be really strong. It really just depends on the people.
"I don't think age is too much of a deciding factor. If two people are compatible and they've got a good, strong bond then they've got a good chance of making it work. Everyone deserves a break sometimes - especially in Summer Bay where it's tragedy galore."
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