Home and Away's Ethan Browne shares heartfelt message amid real-life daughter's milestone

 "You changed my perception of love forever."

Home and Away star Ethan Browne posted a touching tribute to his daughter as she celebrated a milestone birthday. The Tane Parata actor became a father to his daughter, Aaylah, when he was just 16 years old.

Eighteen years on, Ethan reflected on becoming a teenage parent while celebrating her 18th birthday on Instagram.

Posting a picture holding a newborn Aaylah alongside snaps of her growing up, he wrote in the caption: "Becoming a father at 16 wasn’t expected, but the moment I held you in my arms, everything made sense.

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You changed my perception of love forever. You gave me the drive to grow up, work hard, and be the best dad I could be."

He continued: "18 years have flown by, and today you are officially an adult. No matter how big you get, you’ll always have me wrapped around your finger.

Happy 18th birthday to my beautiful daughter, Aaylah. Dad loves you forever."

Several fans and loved ones shared birthday messages in the comments, with one writing: "Unreal brother, still remember the day you told me on the way to school. You've done awesome these last 18 years."

Another said: "That took a lot of courage at that age to take on fatherhood. What a true blessing and now to look back at it no doubt shaped you to be a better, harder working man. God bless you both happy Birthday Aaylah."

Ethan's co-star James Stewart commented: "How wonderful!! This sentiment hits the heart bro love it. Happy Birthday Aaylah."

Meanwhile, head of hair and makeup on Home and Away, Laura Vazquez, added: "Happy 18th Birthday beautiful Aaylah 🩷 what a milestone. Hope you’re having the most magical day sweetheart."