Neighbours finale review: A gut-wrenching farewell as unanswered questions leave us desperate for more
One final whizz around Ramsay Street which deserved to be longer.
The sun has set over Erinsborough – and not for the first time. Neighbours has somehow bounced back twice before, having been dropped after just eight months on air in 1985, and the axe falling again in 2022 when British broadcaster 5 cut funding. No one, I suspect, was under the illusion that Amazon’s revival of the cult soap in 2023 would last forever. After all, all good things must come to an end eventually – it’s just a crying shame it happened so soon. It’s been a stellar revival, with ambitious storylines and polished production. The so-called ‘new chapter’ was Neighbours with the volume turned up. While there have been some questionable elements, such as the endless parade of American guest stars in a bid to gain some transatlantic attention, the show’s beating heart has remained intact. When whispers that the show was under threat reached me last year, I struggled to believe it. Viewers were still tuning in, social media was buzzing, and the energy felt anything but terminal. Ultimately, as has often been the soap’s Achilles’ heel, finances were proving to be too much of a hurdle. This is a disease that has plagued Neighbours for over a decade. For that reason, when it was announced that the serial would be wrapping production again, I was under no illusion that the final storyline would be somewhat muted. There would be no Kylie Minogue and Margot Robbie dropping by, no glittering party in the suburban cul-de-sac, and certainly no fanfare-filled national celebration of the show’s legacy. I didn’t want the last two years to be seen as a misfire or embarrassment because, to us viewers and the hard-working production team, it hasn’t been. What saddened me was that today’s episode seemed so incredibly rushed, as though Amazon had no appetite in investing a little bit more cash to bring some sort of spectacle to the proceedings. Would a double-length feature be too much to ask? Despite the number of episodes left to air dwindling, over the last few months we’ve been introduced to a flurry of new characters alongside a sudden return of some faces from the near past. These included '90s favourite Gaby Willis’s son Zack, his boyfriend Colton, cleaning product thief Clint, and his daughter Addison. Now I’m not saying that any of these actors were unworthy of having a slice of the Neighbours cake, but new characters bring new stories, which was jarring when there was still so much to finalise. I’ve enjoyed their presence, and I’m sure if they were given time, they would’ve thrived. I was stung by story arcs that were hard to digest – Zack’s abruptly buried sex tape scandal and Addison’s reunion with her drug dealing mother should not have played a part in the final months. We should have focussed on the community, those who we have already invested a great deal of our time in. Clint being revealed as Addison’s father was evidently a clumsy way to shoe-horn him back into Jane's life so that they could rekindle their romance in the penultimate episode. Just three years ago, her spark was reignited with teenage love Mike Young. Would it be so wrong to have her remain single? It's understandable that the idea was to give everyone (or most) a happy ending; Remi Varga-Murphy’s amnesia fading and the memory of her wife Cara conveniently returning, Krista Tanaka announcing her pregnancy to husband Leo. But so many threads were left unresolved. One of the strongest families in years, the Rodwells, were left in tatters in the wake of Andrew’s affair with Holly Hoyland. There was the faintest shimmer of a possible reconciliation when Wendy supported Holly through her miscarriage, and later alluded that she may be able to put everything behind her in a conversation with the Varga-Murphys. Andrew listened in, intrigued. And yet, as the theme tune kicked in, I yearned for that conversation to happen between the couple in a post-credits scene. Andrew’s infidelity with his messy neighbour and the subsequent fallout has been immense, and the implosion had legs for another six months of story. We’ll never see that. Executive Producer Jason Herbison has made no secret of the fact he had to speed a lot of things up to accommodate the ending, but it's impossible to shake the feeling that a lot more could’ve been sacrificed for a more emotionally satisfying farewell. Despite that, there was a lot to love in today’s instalment. I cried my little heart out watching the episode, and that was despite knowing every single beat of what was about to happen some months ago. There opening brought perfect symmetry: the Varga-Murphys spinning into Ramsay Street, waving to Karl, mirroring their introduction two years ago. They’ve been one of the triumphs of this era, and rarely has a new family settled so easily. Karl and Paul’s near-verbatim reprise of Susan’s iconic monologue from the 2022 finale also made me smile. For a moment, I wondered why they hadn’t crafted something new – then I remembered, this is Karl and Paul, of course they haven’t. The words hit just as hard the second time around. A delightful procession of familiar faces poured into the The Waterhole to hear Shane Ramsay’s grand plans for a future beyond their usual confines. It wasn’t quite the same nostalgia-fest of the previous finale, but was nonetheless heartwarming to hear Melanie Pearson’s infamous cackle one last time, catch up with trailblazing Mackenzie Hargreaves, and see Roxy Canning strutting her stuff on the bar. With only 24 minutes of material, I was pleasantly surprised to see that each and every returnee had some form of dialogue. They could have easily faded into the background given the limited timeframe, but managed to stand out and serve as a reminder of the folk who’ve woven the show’s rich tapestry. Now, probably my most contentious view: I liked the final scene. I’m certain that by the time this article goes live, fans will be in uproar about the unresolved Erinsborough redevelopment plot, and that we’ll never truly know whether the locals chose to fight for their homes, move to Ramsay Hills or live in the Robinson Towers complex. But that’s the beauty of a serial drama. If Neighbours had continued for another 20 years, we’d still be left with unanswered questions at some point. In the closing moments, Susan stood in the heart of Ramsay Street, contemplating her future. I had goosebumps as the voices of those we have loved and lost over the years rung out around her. It was a poignant reminder that although Neighbours may be gone, the memories will never fade – for us viewers, at least. Susan, stay away from the spilled milk! As she was joined by Paul and Karl for some last words, nobody could muster up a decision about what to do, and so the camera panned out over the signpost, seemingly for good. I’m worried that this open ending will prompt viewers to cling onto the hope of a potential comeback, continuing to plow their time into pushing out the Save Neighbours hashtag at any given opportunity. I would never, ever rule it out a third revival, but it seems incredibly unlikely. I hope that there is at least some comfort found in this ambiguity. Now more than ever, it feels like the right moment to honour a legacy that will only continue when the current generation of actors move onto their next project, and exclaim: “I started on Neighbours.” I like to think it’s not the end of the road, we’ve just reached the midpoint of the cul-de-sac. Farewell, Neighbours, and thank you. Read more: Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as a further 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as 9 old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast. Read our guide to the best Christmas TV for 2025.
Could Neighbours return? Producer discusses soap’s future after cliffhanger ending
Jason Herbison discusses his hopes for the future with RadioTimes.com.
The final ever episode of Neighbours has streamed today, after 40 years on air. It's a bitter pill to swallow for the legions of fans across the globe who tune in for their daily dose of sunshine and drama, given the particularly finite nature of the soap's final storyline. The last time this happened was in 2022, with British broadcaster 5 cutting funding and therefore bringing production to a close. In what was then deemed the finale, a wedding party was attended by a multitude of former Ramsay Street residents, including the iconic Scott and Charlene Robinson (Jason Donovan and Kylie Mingoue). With the story seemingly continuing forever (just not on our screens), fans were given some comfort in the knowledge that their favourite residents all received happy endings. But that's not the case this time. The Nunawading Studios, where Neighbours was filmed for 39 years, have been handed back to their landlord. A plot that threatens the redevelopment of the famed cul de sac to build a new freeway is largely unresolved, and it's likely that the characters are facing a future apart from one another. Despite that, executive producer Jason Herbison does believe that a revival – albeit in a strikingly different model to what we have become accustomed to – is possible. It just takes a broadcaster to see faith in his idea. Here he speaks to RadioTimes.com about what that might look like, and whether it would be feasible in an ever-changing media landscape. How did you approach the 2025 finale differently from the 2022 one? I saw an opportunity to set the show up for a new kind of comeback, perhaps as a spin-off or limited series. The finale is designed to give viewers a taste of what those alternate Neighbours universes could look like. Which characters would you like to see in their own spin-off series? There is a great opportunity for at least two new shows to emerge from ashes of Neighbours – Ramsay Hills and Robinson Towers! We talk about what those alternate stories might look like in the final episodes. Ramsay Hills is brand new suburb – such a show would be quite similar to the Neighbours viewers already know. Robinson Towers is a new hotel and residential development in the heart of Melbourne: high-rise city living. In my dreamscape, we would make short run seasons of both shows and alternate them. When one ends, the other returns. There could be crossovers of characters and returns to Ramsay Street, if it’s still standing. Who knows, perhaps one day? What other formats would you be interested in as a way of carrying on Neighbours? The possibilities are endless. I have an idea for a Christmas movie – maybe that could happen? That said, I’m also enjoying working on new projects at the moment... The show is beloved and anything could happen. Are the team still actively pursuing the chance to bring Neighbours back? We are always open to the discussion. I think we agree that returning to the old model is unlikely, but a conversation will always be welcomed. If Neighbours were to return, would you still like to produce the show, or hand over the reins to someone else? I will always be interested in what happens to the brand, but it may not be me taking it forward in the future. It all depends on where I am in my career. I’ve tried to leave it in a good place and open to many possibilities, not just the ones I mentioned. It’s a huge job running a serial drama. The creative part is fun, but there’s also the management side, which can be all-consuming. I’m personally very happy to have a break from that pace. But if a new broadcaster is interested in Ramsay Hills or Robinson Towers, I would be happy to share my vision. Do you think a new soap could be launched in today’s TV landscape and survive as long as Neighbours? The television landscape has evolved greatly since Neighbours and the other iconic soaps were launched. Who knows? That’s really the answer. I suspect the reality is that shorter runs with less episodes is the way to go. I don’t think we’ll ever see an age where viewers had a small number of channels to choose from, which was the prevailing condition when soaps gained such footholds back in the day. Read more: Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as a further 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as 9 old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours is available to stream on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours legend Lucinda Cowden talks soap spin-off hopes – and her new project with Toadie star Ryan Moloney
The actress chats to RadioTimes.com ahead of her final return to the axed Australian drama.
It just wouldn't be right saying goodbye to Neighbours without hearing Melanie Pearson's iconic chuckle one last time. Fortunately, actress Lucinda Cowden is making her way back to Ramsay Street tomorrow for the soap's finale. There's been a Mel-shaped hole in Erinsborough ever since the character decided to start a new life with Vic Stone (Craig Hall) in Gippsland last year and, although we did see her during the 40th anniversary celebrations in March, there's always room for her in Erinsborough. With the cameras primed to shoot the last scenes in July, Cowden began to fear that she hadn't made the shortlist of familiar faces jetting in to view the new Ramsay Hills and Robinson Towers developments. "I have to admit, I may have sent a little email to [executive producer] Jason Herbison saying: 'Put me in it or I shall hurt your... something'", she joked to RadioTimes.com. "Maybe not quite so threatening, maybe a little pleading. I was thinking that surely they must want Mel back. "I tried to sort of give it a humorous tinge, rather than try to sound quite so desperate. He emailed me back, saying: 'Give me a day, I just need to work it out as I've got so many things in my head.' I got a call from my agent on the Monday." The news of the show's cancellation first hit Lucinda at the conclusion of a nationwide UK tour celebrating Neighbours' birthday earlier this year, a moment she says "floored" her. "The tour had been such an incredible success, we received so much love from the fans and they just filled up our cup. The day after it finished, I was still in Manchester and the cast that were still in the show had left really early that morning to get on a plane," she explains. "I got a number of text messages and was totally floored. This show is still so incredibly loved, and yet here they are tossing it in the bin again." But where do we find Melanie upon her comeback? "It seems all is well in the world of Gippsland pubs and for Mel and Vic, apparently. That's a good thing, because I think it's nice for people to know that Mel's happy and loved, because she had such a terrible time, didn't she? "From the reboot to when she left, it was a rollercoaster that was mainly downhill." She even reckons there's room for a Melanie-centred spin-off, and honestly, we're totally here for it. "Wouldn't that be great to have a little Gippsland spin off with maybe some sort of Byron, Nicolette and Jane Harris action? That would be a nice catch-up. "That's what I'm really hoping might happen with the show – they do little vignettes on what's happened to different families, where they are and what they're doing now. I think there's a market for that." Cowden continues: "It was an absolute joy to be involved in that very important episode. But I don't think it's ever going to come back in the same way again. If it does, I think it will only be in little, short bursts. "That has a sadness for our industry here in Melbourne, and that we lose this incredible training facility. The arts are absolutely and utterly under attack at this moment in time. AI is a really frightening option for all of us creatives." In fact, the threat of artificial intelligence has been the inspiration for a new project that has been crafted with one of the soap's most beloved names. "It's an old idea called Soapboxed that I had that I spoke to Neighbours script editor Megan Herbert about. We've collaborated together, and we're going be doing a premiere of it at the Flinders Fringe Festival in February in February," she reveals. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2021/07/Lucinda-Cowden-and-Ryan-Moloney-on-Neighbours-2021-Taken-by-Jane-Zhang-3_jpg_ReferenceImage_m18676-1f216a4.jpg" width="1080" height="720" alt="Melanie, wearing a leopard print dress, stares into Toadie's eyes. He's wearing a blue shirt and purple tie in a scene from Neighbours" title="Lucinda Cowden and Ryan Moloney on Neighbours 2021 (Taken by Jane Zhang) 3_jpg_ReferenceImage_m18676" /> "I have managed to secure the talents of one of my very favourite actors. His name is Ryan Moloney. Never heard of him? He's a young man with a lot of potential. He actually did a marvellous audition for me for about four years. "It's a play about television and soap and of course there will be cheeky references to Mel and Toadie. We would love to maybe give it a tour around the UK one day, because you don't get any more human than theatre." But, for now, fans have one last slice of Aussie action before the infamous theme tune kicks in, and for Lucinda, it was a "strange feeling" leaving the Neighbours production base in Nunawading, Victoria, for the final time. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/Strap-in-Everyone-put-theyre-all-into-the-last-few-months-and-its-so-nice-to-see-such-a-huge--fa11aab.jpg" width="1080" height="608" alt="Lucinda Cowden as Melanie Pearson in Neighbours, wearing a bright green coat and brown boots, sat on a field." title="Strap in! Everyone put they’re all into the last few months and it’s so nice to see such a huge" /> "The first time I drove into that building, I was probably 22, and when I drove out, I was 59. Things happened in between, for sure, but that's pretty much 37 years of driving in and out of the studio. "I spent a long time trying not to be 'Melanie from Neighbours'. I think the important thing that it taught me is that it's enough to be Melanie from Neighbours, and that's a privilege to have been involved with such an incredible show for such a long time." Read more: Neighbours legends tease that beloved soap would be a "completely new show" should it be revived following finale Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as a further 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as 9 old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again The Neighbours finale streams from 7:30am tomorrow on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast. Read our guide to the best Christmas TV for 2025.
Neighbours legends tease that beloved soap would be a "completely new show" should it be revived following finale
The legendary actors speak to RadioTimes.com about their sadness, hopes for the future and gratitude to the show's viewers.
As one of Australia's biggest media exports, Neighbours has cemented a number of cast members as household names over the last four decades... but few have had quite the same impact as Alan Fletcher and Jackie Woodburne. The duo - who have played the beloved Karl and Susan Kennedy since 1994 - are preparing to say farewell to the cult soap this week, after it failed to be recommissioned by producers Amazon MGM Studios in February. Uniquely, and rather sadly, this is a position they've both been in before. It was just over three years ago that the show wrapped up the Ramsay Street drama with a blaze of highly publicised returns, including Kylie Minogue and Margot Robbie, a wedding party on the infamous cul de sac and a sense of hope for the future. This time, however, things are a little different. A threat to the future of fictional Erinsborough looms large, with redevelopment plans displacing the characters across the state of Victoria. The more finite storyline, while allowing the door to remain open for a potential revival, signifies a change in gear from last time. If Neighbours was to return - and given this is the third time that the series has been pulled since it began - it would be very different. "There was tears, there was sadness, Stefan [Dennis] spoke beautifully on the last day," Fletcher explains to RadioTimes.com. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/NBRSS3UT9362250711TRAALL00139-3e490d2.jpg" width="3900" height="2601" alt="A greyscale image of producers Andrew Thompson and Jason Herbison stand beside actors Stefan Dennis (who is raising a glass) and Rebekah Elmaloglou. Seated are Hana Abe-Tucker, Jackie Woodburne and Annie Jones on the set of Neighbours" title="Neighbours" /> "I think there was also a sense of pride. We faced great sadness the first time around. This time we got an extra two years, we got an extra 400 episodes. We proved to the world that Neighbours didn't finish because it lacked an audience. The show is still loved." Woodburne adds: "Ironically, there was a sense of, 'Well, who knows?', especially the way the story ended. There was an element of hope. And we have lived the experience of 'you really do never know'." In fact, the pair have already started considering what Neighbours 4.0 could look like. During episodes that air this week, the residents are debating whether to fight for their homes, move to Shane Ramsay's (Peter O'Brien) 'Ramsay Hills' development, or shift to the city for Paul Robinson's new mixed-use venture 'Robinson Towers'. "What logistically would be the easiest and the least expensive to shoot? Where do Karl and Susan best fit in? I mean, really, you could justify any of the three options," she continues. "For Susan, obviously, the hope is that they would save Ramsay Street, but logistically, I doubt that's possible." Fletcher agrees. "It's enormous fun to speculate. The one thing I would say is, if for some amazing reason down the track there was some kind of an incarnation of a program not necessarily called Neighbours, but a program that had a Neighbour-ish type feel, then you can be sure that they would go to the boffins like [executive producer] Jason Herbison, who would generate the best possible storyline." Amid the speculation, they also want fans to manage their expectations and not be sat waiting for a reprieve. In fact, they've both moved onto new ventures. For Fletcher, he's just completed a nationwide UK tour with his music, while Woodburne is set to lead a new 5 drama, Imposter, which hits screens next week. "It's November and I haven't heard a single whisper of any notion whatsoever. It would have to be a completely new show," he explains. "It's just the reality. So who knows what the future is? Paying for television [production] these days is so hard and so fraught that you just don't know what sort of show would even be possible." There's still a lot to look forward to in the last few days. A range of old faces return in the finale, allowing Neighbours to do what it does best - dipping into the rich history of the characters and playing on the nostalgia a little. "I love the fact that Peter O'Brien could come back and play such a substantial part in the finale. These people are very successful actors in the industry, and yet they always put their hand up when asked to come back and do substantial work," Fletcher notes. "I think having Shane pitted against Paul at the end, there was a perfect blend, if you like." Woodburne continues: "The dynamic that they had was fascinating. I think the fans will recognise that, even if it's just subconsciously. It pulls fans back to the origins of the show that they've been faithful to for so long." Concluding, they both wanted to share their gratitude with those who have supported their careers, and the show, over the years. "What wonderful people, beautiful people watch our show. My message to them is just a profound thank you for the support; the encouragement, the love, for watching the show, and keeping me employed. I have nothing but gratitude and admiration for all of them," Woodburne beams. And for Fletcher? "It's a total ditto for me. I do have a very, very close personal connection with a lot of people who, over the years, have come to all the gigs. So actually, I know people now on a different level, and they tell me about what's going on in their lives and what Neighbours means to them. "I feel very connected to that audience, and I'm very appreciative that they've let me into their lives." The final episode of Neighbours streams on Amazon Prime Video from 7.30am on Thursday, 11th December. Read more: Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as a further 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as 9 old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story
Holly's storyline could've been very different.
Neighbours boss Jason Herbison has revealed the legendary character he'd hoped to bring back for Holly Hoyland's (Lucinda Armstrong-Hall) affair with Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) – but was ultimately unable to secure her. For months, fans of the Aussie soap have watched in horror as hapless Holly hooked up with her best pal and next door neighbour Sadie's (Emerald Chan) dad. The pair were even considering leaving Erinsborough and starting a new life on the Mornington Peninsula, close to his birth family, though the guilt Andrew felt towards his wife Wendy (Candice Leask) ended his infidelity. Slowly but surely, more residents were becoming privy to what was going on. There was a threat from criminal Greg Murphy (Gary Sweet), and then Taye Obasi (Lakota Johnson) found Holly's missing earring at a city centre bar – where she'd been meeting Andrew. On the day of his vow renewal with Wendy, he decided to come clean and tell her everything. But the drama didn't stop there, as Holly was pregnant with his baby. In today's episode, after chasing an ambulance that contained kidnapped JJ Varga-Murphy (Riley Bryant), Holly collapsed to the floor and was found by Wendy. Unfortunately, at the hospital, it was confirmed that she had miscarried. Wendy and Sadie were able to put aside their grievances to offer her support, while Andrew and Holly's dad Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) waited by her bedside. But there was one notable absence – her mum, Izzy Hoyland (Natalie Bassingthwaighte). "I do regret that we were unable to secure Natalie to reprise her role of Izzy," Herbison told RadioTimes.com. "There was a great Izzy return planned but the story arc still played without it." He continued: "Lucinda did an incredible job bringing Holly back to life in the reboot, complete with Holly’s glorious imperfections. I loved that she was a chip off the Izzy block and trying to better herself, yet her worst instincts kept getting the better of her. "We had the Andrew affair storyline planned quite a while ago and started to chip away at Holly’s self-esteem to get her in the right emotional place. "The story was meant to launch during the 40th anniversary week but we had to delay it, but we got there in the end. Holly’s a great soap character. Trouble finds her and Lucinda played the role in a very real, multi-dimensional way." Bassingthwaighte originally played Izzy for four years between 2003 and 2007, giving birth to Holly on Karl's wedding day to Susan (Jackie Woodburne) in London. She had been conceived during a one-night stand, when Izzy drugged Karl and he believed he was sleeping with Susan. Talk about messy! Izzy returned for brief stints in 2018 and 2022. Discussing whether he had any reservations about Holly's affair, Herbison added: "I was no more worried than I would be for any controversial story. Soaps aren’t meant to please audiences all the time – you have to take risks. "Characters need to be flawed. There has to be conflict, drama and shocks along the way. If there’s not, you are rightly criticised for being boring and predictable. "There are times when you want viewers to scream at the TV but of course keep watching." The final episode of Neighbours will stream on Amazon Prime Video this Thursday after 40 years on air. Read more: Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as a further 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as 9 old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years
Jason Herbison exclusively reflects on the end of an era – and what he regrets about the final weeks...
After more than 40 years on air, the time has come to bid farewell to Neighbours – again. The iconic Australian soap survived the axe from 5 in 2022 and was revived by Amazon a year later, only for the streaming giant to announce in February that it was pulling the plug on the reboot. As the show’s loyal fans commiserate the end of an era, anticipation is high for the Neighbours finale’s release on 11th December. In an exclusive interview with RadioTimes.com, the soap’s executive producer Jason Herbison teases what viewers can expect, and candidly reflects on the challenge of crafting a second swansong, his feelings on the show’s demise and what he would have done differently. Did you approach the 2025 finale differently from the 2022 one? I approached the ending very differently this time. I knew I couldn’t compete with 2022 or do the same thing twice. What can you tell us about the final scene? It’s somewhat of an homage to the finale 2022 scene, however it involves a small cast this time. Jackie Woodburne (aka Susan Kennedy) made me cry in 2022 and she’s done it again in 2025! I was on set when we shot it. How would you describe the atmosphere on the final day of filming? We all hugged and shed a tear – it was very emotional. After the final scene, we gathered in Studio A, exactly as we did in 2022. For those of us present on both occasions, it was incredibly surreal. You can’t go through the same thing twice and feel exactly the same way, I believe. Most of all, this time, we felt a sense of gratitude. We all thought the show ended for good in 2022 and the Amazon era has been a wonderful bonus. Paul and Terese are at the centre of the final week, what makes this couple work so well? The all-important X-factor! Some pairings just have great chemistry, while others don’t. We have tried putting them with other people but they always end up back together. I think these obstacles are what makes them work, too. If they were together and happy all the time, it would be boring. Full credit to Stefan Dennis and Rebekah Elmaloglou, who bring their own real-life charm and naughtiness to the roles – and I do mean naughty! Stefan Dennis gets the last line in the finale – was it hard to choose which actor had that honour? Stefan asked me if he could have the last line long before I’d even written the episode. It wasn’t a tough decision – he’s a legend and he deserves it. How important was it to return to the Ramsay/Robinson feud for the finale? I’m a big believer in honouring the history of the show. The Ramsay/Robinson feud has been a great foundation for conflict over the years and it felt full-circle to come back to it. I was hoping to bring all of Paul’s living kids back for the finale but when that didn’t work, I realised it would be fun to have Jimmy and Max as young rivals – chips off the old block and the next generation. In the way that Mike and Clive sparring was old-school Neighbours in the 2022 finale, the hijinks here are intentional throwbacks to the style of the '80s. Without spoiling too much, what can you tease about how the show ends? The mood is optimism. We shot the finale back in July so of course, there are lots of spoilers out there already, but the actual dialogue itself hasn’t leaked so hopefully that will be a surprise to viewers. I couldn’t help but play with that sense of deja-vu. We have been here before, right? The threat to the street is an echo of what is happening to the show itself. Unlike last time, we were actively starting to pack up our studios in Nunawading as the last episodes were shot. I personally found this very emotional and wanted to bring that sentiment to the finale. Which storyline from the Amazon era are you proudest of? I enjoyed the recent return of Darcy Tyler and how it dovetailed into Jane and Amanda’s story arc. It was always great to give Karl a big, dramatic arc. Similarly, I loved the way Holly and Andrew’s affair dovetailed into Cara and Greg’s story. I always strive to fold in every character in the street and have long-lasting repercussions for every major event that happens. Were you worried about the reaction to the Holly/Andrew affair? No more than I would be for any controversial story. Soaps aren’t meant to please audiences all the time, you have to take risks. Characters need to be flawed and there has to be conflict, drama and shocks along the way. If there’s not, you are rightly criticised for being boring and predictable. I do regret we were unable to secure Natalie Bassingthwaighte to reprise her role as Izzy – there was a return planned but the story arc still played without it. Holly came into her own as a leading lady in this era, why did the audience respond to her so strongly? Lucinda Armstrong-Hall did an incredible job bringing Holly back to life in the reboot, complete with the character’s glorious imperfections. I loved how she was a chip off the Izzy block and trying to be herself, yet her worst instincts kept getting the better of her. We had the Andrew affair storyline planned a while ago and started to chip away at Holly’s self-esteem to get her in the right emotional place. The story was meant to launch in the 40th anniversary week but we had to delay it. Holly’s a great soap character – trouble finds her and Lucinda played the role in a very real, multi-dimensional way. The Varga-Murphys were breakout stars of the Amazon era, what made them so popular? We were incredibly fortunate to cast two amazing actors, Sara West and Naomi Rukavina, as Cara and Remi, along with two new talents, Marley Williams (Dex) and Riley Bryant (JJ) , as the boys. They all worked hard to make the family feel authentic and it paid off. I know there was some criticism of Remi’s recent amnesia storyline and that’s valid, no fault of the actors. We had a much bigger story planned but ran out of time to play out the full scope. There is a nice ending for the family and I’m sure they’ll be long remembered. Across the 40 years, is there a single character that defines Neighbours for you? I can only single out the street. It’s the glue that keeps everyone together – the connective tissue. A few months on, how do you feel about Neighbours ending in this way? I’m in a very different head space now and feel very at peace with it all. The ending was a challenge but I hope the loyal fans can appreciate why I’ve gone the way I did. My only regret is that I didn’t have another week of the show – it was a squeeze to wrap up all the stories. Very much like the last time. You’ve already worked with Jackie Woodburne since Neighbours ended on The Imposter – which other cast would you like to collaborate with again in the future? That’s a long list! The great thing about The Imposter is that Jackie is playing a role that is the total opposite of Susan. Wouldn’t it be great to see Stefan or Alan Fletcher (aka Karl) in a new kind of role too? One of my absolute favourites from over the years is Morgana O’Reilly (aka Naomi Canning), who was recently in The White Lotus. I would love to work with her again. Which UK soap would you like to work on and why? EastEnders – so I can live in London! I have a British passport through my parents but have never put it to use. Finally, how would you sum up the legacy of Neighbours? Neighbours changed the landscape of serial television in both Australia and the UK. We had stripped serials down under before, but never with the blend of comedy, romance and drama that Neighbours served up. The show tapped into something and Home and Away and all the British soaps followed, at least in terms of weekly output. I’m often told that Neighbours is one of the few shows to retain its original DNA and I like that. We’ve stayed true to our roots but also moved with the times. I’m personally very proud of how progressive the show has become. Our motto is that everyone is welcome on Ramsay Street and I have tried to stand by that. I thank the fans for sticking with us – we will always have those memories. Read more: Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as a further 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as 9 old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours icon will be missing from final ever episodes, boss confirms
Toadie Rebecchi star Ryan Moloney was asked to reprise his role but was unavailable for filming.
For the second time in just a few years, Neighbours is preparing for what looks set to be the beloved Australian soap's final ever episode – but one of the show's most iconic characters sadly won't be involved. According to boss Jason Herbison, Toadie Rebecchi star Ryan Moloney – who departed the soap after 30 years earlier this year – was unavailable to reprise his role in the finale, which was filmed back in July. "We asked Ryan [Moloney] to return as Toadie," he explained in an interview with TV Week. "He was unavailable sadly, but he does of course get a mention." Although Toadie will be absent, a number of familiar faces from the show's past are expected to appear as soap draws to a close. Some of the characters confirmed to return to Ramsay Street for one last hurrah include Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien), Melanie Pearson (Lucinda Cowden), Jimmy Williams (Darcy Tadich), Ned Willis (Ben Hall) and Roxy Canning (Zima Anderson) – and there could be an extra surprise or two in store, too. Herbison also teased that the episode will include "a few Easter eggs for the fans" and explained why he felt the need to end the show in a very different way from the previous finale in 2022, before the show had been rescued by Amazon. "I couldn’t end it the same way as I did last time," he said. "I knew we were losing the Nunawading Studios and backlot imminently, which was different to the last time. "With so much love for the show I felt I should craft an ending that would give the show a chance to come back in different ways that didn’t rely on the studios. This is what the finale sets out to do." It was confirmed back in February that the soap was to be axed again after Amazon opted against renewing it beyond their original 460-episode commission, with the final episode set to air on Thursday 11th December. When filming concluded in July, Herbison said: "Neighbours is a special show and it's been a privilege to make the recent seasons for our loyal viewers around the world. We have added 460 episodes to our legacy of over 9,000 episodes, something we all feel proud of. "Once again, we will be resting the residents of Ramsay Street on a hopeful note, with some tantalising possibilities for a future chapter." Read more: Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as nine old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Iconic Neighbours wedding crowned the soap's greatest ever moment ahead of final episode
Here's what fans voted as the Australian soap's finest hour.
The end is nigh for our beloved Neighbours, and during that time there's been an abundance of iconic moments. In 2022, fans were quick to vote the legendary wedding of Scott (Jason Donovan) and Charlene Robinson (Kylie Minogue) as the best ever Ramsay Street moment of all time in our exclusive poll. A selection of iconic stories were compiled by RadioTimes.com, including the scene which saw Harold Bishop (Ian Smith) return from being lost at sea. Years later, he had a spiritual encounter with late wife Madge (Anne Charleston), while the plane crash that claimed the life of his son David also got a mention. Also on the list was canine Bouncer's dream sequence, Hendrix Greyson's (Ben Turland) beautiful proposal to Mackenzie Hargreaves (Georgie Stone) and that Fake Dee saga. But you had your say, and a huge 49 per cent of you voted for Scott and Charlene's nuptials as the crowning moment! In fact, every other nomination fell below the 10 per cent mark, other than the moment Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) confronted Karl (Alan Fletcher) over his affair, which took second place with 11 per cent. Scott and Charlene said their vows back in 1987 with two million viewers watching in Australia. In the UK, the episode aired over a year later, netting a massive audience of 20m people! So it's easy to see why the characters' magical moment earned the title in your eyes. Donovan, who reprised his role in what was then deemed the show's final ever episode in 2022, said at the time: "Thank you to all those who’ve voted Scott and Charlene’s wedding the greatest ever Neighbours moment!" Speaking further about being a part of the soap's legacy, he added: "What an honour to be part of an amazing cast of actors who’ve given so much to this show. "A massive thank you to the fans who've supported Neighbours over the years. Without you guys we could never have made television history and ultimately brought entertainment happiness throughout the decades." As the sun sets over Erinsborough once again, the megastars aren't making a comeback. However, a number of fan favourites are staging a return for the last instalment of the current era, which airs in less than two weeks. The show was axed for the third time in 40 years earlier in 2025, with current producers Amazon MGM Media deciding not to renew beyond its 460-episode commission. Filming concluded in July, with executive producer Jason Herbison saying at the time: “Neighbours is a special show and it's been a privilege to make the recent seasons for our loyal viewers around the world. We have added 460 episodes to our legacy of over 9,000 episodes, something we all feel proud of. "Once again, we will be resting the residents of Ramsay Street on a hopeful note, with some tantalising possibilities for a future chapter.” Read more: Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as another 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as nine old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours finale week: Tragedy strikes as another 9 old faces return to say goodbye to Ramsay Street
The last ever episode airs in three weeks.
The end of an era is fast approaching, as Neighbours' final ever episode hits our screens in just three weeks. It comes following the news that the show had been axed for the third time in 40 years, with current producers Amazon MGM Media deciding not to renew beyond their 460-episode commission. Filming concluded in July, with executive producer Jason Herbison saying at the time: “Neighbours is a special show and it's been a privilege to make the recent seasons for our loyal viewers around the world. We have added 460 episodes to our legacy of over 9,000 episodes, something we all feel proud of. "Once again, we will be resting the residents of Ramsay Street on a hopeful note, with some tantalising possibilities for a future chapter.” We now know that the street is set to be demolished to make way for a new freeway development, but the residents aren't giving up without a fight. As a campaign gets under way to save the Melbourne cul de sac, legacy character Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien) comes back to offer an alternative – everyone should move to a new development in the countryside. However, his old pal Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) has other ideas, and as new spoiler pictures show, he whisks his neighbours – past and present – off to the city for a look at another site. But what will the outcome be? Will Ramsay Street be saved, or will everyone choose to pack their bags and start afresh? The answer to that question remains to be seen, and with a whole host of other dramas reaching a head in the last four episodes, it won't be an easy decision to make. Firstly, the Linwell brothers make one final strike towards the Varga-Murphys by kidnapping young JJ (Riley Bryant), while Holly Hoyland (Lucinda Armstrong-Hall) rushes down Power Road and falls to the floor. Later, she has a tearful conversation with lover Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) in hospital. What does this mean for their unborn child? Surprisingly, his wife Wendy (Candice Leask) is also by the bedside. Meanwhile, Krista Tanaka (Majella Davis) makes a shock announcement, which is followed by a big decision, and Paul throws some form of romantic ceremony for partner Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) in their backyard. Romance is clearly in the air as Jane Harris (Annie Jones) contemplates her future with Clint Hendry (Jason Wilder), and in the final instalment, the Robinson/Ramsay feud is reignited between Paul and Shane. Alongside the previously announced returnees; Shane, Sam Kratz (Richard Grieve), Annalise Hartman (Kimberley Davies), Sue Parker (Kate Gorman), Mackenzie Hargreaves (Georgie Stone), Haz Devkar (Shiv Palekar), Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major), Levi Canning (Richie Morris) and Remi Varga-Murphy (Naomi Rukavina), another nine familiar faces are set to be around as the sun sets over Erinsborough for the final time. Here's a look at everyone else confirmed to be returning: Ramsay Street residents reunite as a further 9 returns are confirmed 1. Melanie Pearson (Lucinda Cowden) Without a doubt, Melanie is the name (and laugh) that everyone wants to see back. It was a crime that she ever went, really. Cowden first appeared during Neighbours' heyday in 1987, and is one of a few actors to have had episodes throughout every decade of the show. It's the moment everyone's been waiting for since she chuckled her way out in March, and now she's finally back, pictured alongside cast and crew in a special behind the scenes snap. 2. Nell Rebecchi (Ayisha Salem-Towner) It hasn't been too long since we last saw Nell – having departed alongside dad Toadie (Ryan Moloney) in September. She's seen joining in with Paul's recce to the city, but it's likely that she comes back to attend Paul and Terese's celebrations. 3. Jimmy Williams (Darcy Tadich) Jimmy's had somewhat of a growth spurt since he last treaded Australian soil. The grandson of Paul, he accompanies his family to Melbourne and like Nell, later joins in the party atmosphere. Darcy originally played Jimmy between 2015 and 2018, returning for guest appearances the following year and on New Year's Day 2020. 4 and 5. Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson) and Rhett Norman (Liam Maguire) Aaron made a rather hasty departure in September, deciding to start a new life on the other side of the country so he could be closer to his sister, who has Huntington's disease. Pictures show him enjoying brekkie with the Harris-Stone clan, alongside another old face... Rhett! His circumstances were another reason for Aaron's move to Adelaide. They'd just made things official, when the mother of Rhett's daughter announced her plans to leave Melbourne. Could they be deciding to swap states in the show's final days? 6. Kiri Durant (Gemma Bird Matheson) Kiri was a regular during Neighbours' final months in 2022, moving off screen to Magnetic Island to live with her estranged dad Glen Donnelly (Richard Huggett). She enjoyed a brief romance with Nicolette Stone (Hannah Monson), and made a short return last year. Could they have a happy ending together? Matheson has continued contributing to the soap off-screen as a writer. 7. Ned Willis (Ben Hall) Ben Hall is another ex-cast member coming back, with his last appearance as Terese's former stepson Ned being in 2022. As a regular for six years, he has plenty of ties to the locals that will see him jump straight back into the action. 8. Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux) Byron went to live with former housemates Mack and Haz in Paris in August. Molyneux had signed on the dotted line for the titular role in Amazon's new Viking drama Bloodaxe, but has made time out of his undoubtedly hectic schedule to wave off the show that kickstarted his career. Fans will notice he's now sporting an impressive beard as a result of his Nordic adventures... 9. Roxy Canning (Zima Anderson) Foxy Roxy is back! The fan favourite briefly came back for 12 episodes earlier in the year, and it wouldn't be right to say goodbye to Neighbours without her there. Wherever Roxy goes, trouble follows... and something tells us she won't be happy to see Ramsay Street under threat. Read more: Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as nine old characters return to Ramsay Street Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours spoilers reveal finale story as nine old characters return to Ramsay Street
There's just 19 episodes of Neighbours left to air – meaning that our time with the residents of Ramsay Street is rapidly coming to an end. It was confirmed earlier in the year that the show would be wrapping up for a third time, with current producers Amazon MGM Media deciding not to renew beyond their 460 episode commission. Filming concluded in July, with Executive Producer Jason Herbison saying: “Neighbours is a special show and it's been a privilege to make the recent seasons for our loyal viewers around the world. We have added 460 episodes to our legacy of over 9000 episodes, something we all feel proud of. "Once again, we will be resting the residents of Ramsay Street on a hopeful note, with some tantalising possibilities for a future chapter.” However, the latest batch of spoiler images seem to show that there may no longer be a Ramsay Street for the show to be based on, should another broadcaster step in to save the day. Pictures from the episode airing on 1st December show Holly Hoyland (Lucinda Armstrong-Hall) having a heart-to-heart with dad Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) and his wife Susan (Jackie Woodburne). What are they discussing? In the 3rd December episode, Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien) makes a grand return – and is stood in front of a huge 'Fight the Freeway' banner in The Waterhole. This has already been mentioned in recent episodes, but it seems it could soon have a far greater impact on the community than originally thought. In the following instalment, a number of old residents make their way back to Melbourne, and head out for a trip to the hills with Shane. Here's a look at everyone we know to be returning, with more to be confirmed, and what we know about their comebacks. 9 old faces return to Neighbours for the penultimate week 1. Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien) Original character Shane, who was last seen in March, can be spotted having a conversation with son Max (Ben Jackson) and Karl in the pub. To their right, Jane Harris (Annie Jones) is browsing through a brochure. Max doesn't look particularly pleased, and later, joins Karl and Nicolette Stone (Hannah Monson) in putting more 'Fight the Freeway' banners on the cul de sac. 2. Sam Kratz (Richard Grieve) Nineties favourite Sam was last seen in August, having reconciled with his wife Annalise Hartman (Kimberley Davies). In the new snaps he's seen chatting with Shane, Karl, Susan and Max in the Kennedy kitchen. After a few smiles, the group's mood soon changes when they get down to business. Is he the one behind the redevelopment? 3. Annalise Hartman (Kimberley Davies) Annalise seems to be accompanying her husband, as a picture from the previous week of episodes shows her leading a residents meeting alongside Sam. Whatever news they break causes Susan to break down in Karl's arms. And it seems the two aren't given a welcome reception by another old face... 4. Sue Parker (Kate Gorman) Eighties high school bully Sue has been back for several guest stints, most recently during a meeting where she openly opposed the freeway build. However, after discovering she'd be quids in from the sale of her home, she seemed more on board. Could she have a change of heart after seeing the impact it will have on everyone? 5. Mackenzie Hargreaves (Georgie Stone) Trans rights trailblazer Georgie Stone is reprising her Mackenzie role for one final time, having departed last year for a new life in France with her husband Haz Devkar (Shiv Palekar). Mack can be seen accompanying a number of residents on a trip to the countryside, which seems to be organised by Shane. 6. Haz Devkar (Shiv Palekar) Haz is back too – cosied up with Mackenzie on their chilly trip away from the suburbs. They seem in good spirits, while the Varga-Murphys and Kennedys don't look as enthusiastic. In fact, Susan soon storms away from the group in frustration. Jane can be seen holding a brochure again, could it be that Shane is proposing to build an alternative housing development? 7. Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major) Former garage owner Lucas hasn't been a regular character since 2013, but has continued to make guest appearances during the last decade. This has been facilitated by Major's work behind the scenes as a director, allowing him to pop back in from time to time to check on his business in Power Road. After selling up to Max, it seemed we'd never see him again. However, donning his infamous biker jacket, Lucas joins everyone on Shane's recce. 8. Levi Canning (Richie Morris) Blink and you'll miss him, Levi Canning is hiding behind Max in one of the location shots. It's been over three years since we last saw him, in what was then deemed the 'final' ever episode. He confessed his love to Freya Wozniak (Phoebe Roberts), and as explained when the show returned the next year, later moved to her childhood home of Echuca. Why he's decided to support Ramsay Street in its hour of need remains to be seen – as he has no family ties to the destination anymore. 9. Remi Varga-Murphy (Naomi Rukavina) Remi has had a particularly eventful year, having been diagnosed with amnesia and forgetting her wife Cara (Sara West), to being targeted by old foes the Linwell Brothers. In a move to facilitate actress Naomi's maternity leave, Remi left for a break in Apollo Bay, still struggling to remember her married life. Now she's back, it seems like the Linwells deal one final blow to the family, as a photo on Amazon Prime from the finale week shows son JJ (Riley Bryant) tied up. Will she ever remember her old life, and will JJ be ok? Read more: Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours wraps after 40 years - as boss drops hint of "hopeful" future
Iconic Aussie soap Neighbours has officially wrapped on filming for the final time. The show will end officially on screens in December 2025 and today, Friday 11th July, the cast have filmed their final scenes on Ramsay Street (Nunawading studios). Amazon had previously saved the soap in 2022, with it returning the following year, but sadly the deal has now come to an end. Executive Producer, Jason Herbison, said: “Neighbours is a special show and it's been a privilege to make the recent seasons for our loyal viewers around the world. We have added 460 episodes to our legacy of over 9000 episodes, something we all feel proud of. "Once again, we will be resting the residents of Ramsay Street on a hopeful note, with some tantalising possibilities for a future chapter.” The iconic cast have been sharing their memories of the soap which recently turned 40, with Stefan Dennis saying: "I never thought a single show would give me the greatest adventures of my career, spanning 40 years. Without Neighbours I would not have meet the people, been to the places and lived the experiences of a lifetime. Thank you all." Alan Fletcher added: "Neighbours has been my happy place for over 30 years. I will always treasure the creative freedom and enthusiasm amongst the whole team that has allowed us to produce a brilliant show for so long." Susan Kennedy star Jackie Woodburne continued: "It’s impossible to measure the gratitude I feel for the gift of 30 years on Neighbours. To do so I would have to calculate the number of extraordinary cast and crew I have been privileged to work with, count the number of laughs I have shared with them, measure the pride I feel for the diverse, dramatic (and sometimes outrageous!) storytelling we have all been a part of. "We are the best version of ‘family’. It has been a wild ride into a happy life. Wouldn’t change it for quids!" Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours fan-favourite in surprising recast ahead of final ever episodes this year
Neighbours has recast a classic character ahead of its 40th anniversary, which also marks the end of the Australian soap. Earlier this year, Amazon Freevee confirmed that the soap would be "resting" as of December 2025 but there would be some exciting things in store for the anniversary special – and they have delivered! In a post shared on Instagram, Neighbours shared that Paul Robinson's daughter Elle is returning to Ramsay Street, 16 years after she exited the soap. But the role will not be reprised by Pippa Black, who had cameo appearances in 2019 and 2022. Instead, Elise Jansen will step into the role. Elle Robinson first made her Ramsay Street debut back in 2005 and has been known to cause chaos while in Erinsborough, including faking a terminal illness. "Elle Robinson returns!" Neighbours' shared on Instagram. "Now played by Elise Jansen, Paul's daughter will soon be arriving on Ramsay Street, but what's brought her back after all this time? Elle's dramatic storyline is set to take us right up to our nail biting finale," the caption reads. Not much is known about how Neighbours will bow out at the end of the year, but show boss Jason Herbison has promised a hopeful conclusion. "I am ending it in a way that sets up future chapters," Herbison told <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/why-the-end-of-neighbours-is-bad-news-for-australian-tv-and-viewers-20250702-p5mbvx.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" data-vars-ga-outbound-link="https://www.theage.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/why-the-end-of-neighbours-is-bad-news-for-australian-tv-and-viewers-20250702-p5mbvx.html" data-vars-ga-ux-element="Hyperlink" data-vars-ga-call-to-action="The Age" data-node-id="21.3.0">The Age. "It'll be very hopeful and optimistic, but it will be different [from] last time. Most importantly, it absolutely leaves the door open for a few different ways the show could come back in the future." Herbison previously teased that the final episode will be "a little bit different". "I certainly wouldn't want to repeat myself – that was a great finale, I loved writing that episode," Herbison told 10 News First. "It was incredible that everyone came back for it. I don't know, I think this time around it would be a little bit of a different tone. "But just as we said before, we were resting the show, we do see Neighbours as eternal. Who knows about the future? So I think whatever ending, it will be a door left open kind of ending again." Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours' Rebekah Elmaloglou on 40th anniversary "mayhem" and how she wants Terese's story to end
The star speaks exclusively to Johnathon Hughes about the bittersweet celebrations for the Aussie soap.
Celebrations for Neighbours’ 40th anniversary risked being somewhat marred by news of the Australian soap being axed – again. Last month, Amazon announced it would not be renewing the show it saved from the grave in 2022 when 5 pulled the plug. The Amazon era means Neighbours has at least lived to see its ruby jubilee before it ends in December, but with storylines planned months in advance, before the imminent axing, the soap had already lined up a spectacular week of drama to mark the milestone for fans to enjoy including a fire, a wedding, and the bombshell that original character Paul Robinson had fathered yet another secret love child, jeopardising his relationship with soul mate Terese Willis… "That pesky baby!" laughs Rebekah Elmaloglou, aka Terese, speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com about all things Erinsborough. "Paul’s ex Chelsea shows up with this child almost a year after she left town, which causes absolute mayhem. Is Terese threatened? Absolutely. She doesn’t like Chelsea one bit." As soap tradition dictates, there is a question mark over the baby boy’s paternity. During her relationship with Paul, gold-digging minx Chelsea seduced computer nerd Jeffrey Swain behind her lover’s back to shut down a blackmail plot her over her secret scheming. Eventually, a DNA test confirms Paul is the daddy, which Elmaloglou reveals makes Terese even more uptight and angry than usual (if that’s possible). "It’s a crazy situation. Terese gets very territorial as Chelsea causes havoc for her and Paul. Chelsea wheedles her way back into Paul’s life by using the baby, Terese can see straight through that woman!" It’s the latest of numerous bumps in the road for Erinsborough power couple Terese and Paul, who have been on and off pretty much since Elmaloglou’s alter ego arrived in 2013. Terese came in as part of a new branch of the beloved Willis clan, whose history on Ramsay Street dates back to the early 1990s. Even though Terese was married to Brad, there was always a spark with co-worker Paul as they butted heads over the running of the iconic Lassiter's Hotel. The couple’s mutual attraction led to a roller coaster romance which was recently revived, although who knows how long for. Ball-breaking business boss Terese has become a firm fan favourite, with Elmaloglou’s powerhouse performance guiding the character through heartbreak, grief, cancer and alcoholism, always ensuring she emerges from each setback even tougher. The actress was already a familiar face to soap fans when she was cast, having got her big break as troubled teen Sophie Simpson on rival drama Home and Away back in 1990 at the age of 15. Even before that, Elmaloglou had notched up an impressive raft of credits as a child actor in Australian film and TV, including an appearance in 1985 blockbuster Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome alongside Mel Gibson and Tina Turner. "When I went into Home and Away a lot of the kids were very green, it was their first big job," she recalls. "Although I’d been acting throughout my childhood working on soaps is very different. "It’s a unique way of acting and actually quite difficult. You need a fine balance between drama and comedy and everything in between, and have to be able to flip constantly and make it realistic and relatable. It’s like jumping on a treadmill that’s on 12 and you have to keep running! "At first it’s quite scary but you get used to it. I love it and much prefer the pace and switching quickly between drama and the comedic. You have the opportunity to go big a lot of the time. "I remember the older Home and Away cast really took me under their wing, especially Emily Symons (Marilyn Chambers), who my very first scene was with, and Ray Meagher (Alf Stewart), who is such a consummate professional. "I also learnt a lot from Terence Donovan, who played Sophie’s dad, even then he was a big name veteran Australian actor. He was amazing, years later we worked together on Neighbours where he was Terese’s father-in-law, Doug Willis. Terry is Jason Donovan’s dad, and Jason’s daughter Jemma was also in Neighbours (as Harlow Robinson). I have a strong connection to the Donovans!" As the aforementioned Jason can attest to, soap brings an intense level of stardom some struggle with, but Elmaloglou admits to being at ease at the attention from the public which has been part of her life from an early age. "In Australia I probably get recognised more for my Kellogg's sultana bran commercials I did when I was a kid than I do for Neighbours! That’s also partly because Australia doesn’t embrace the show as much as it used to. Sometimes I feel we don’t get the recognition we deserve from the Australian media, which is disappointing. So when we come to the UK it’s great because the fans are amazing." Along with other members of the cast, past and present, Elmaloglou felt the love from Neighbours’ devoted British fans first-hand during last month’s 40th-anniversary tour. The live show, in which the cast were interviewed live on stage and shared memories of their Ramsay Street experience, was a huge hit and cemented the special relationship between Neighbours and its UK audience as it reaches the big four-oh. Unfortunately, Elmaloglou came down to earth with a bump as she received the news the show was being axed just hours after her plane landed Down Under after the tour. "It’s just so sad and disappointing for the UK fans. After the success of the tour, which was so special, the decision really doesn’t make sense. To be honest, I don’t really know the ins and outs or understanding behind it. We’re dealing with a large corporation, it’s business, it’s money." Neighbours has previously swerved the axe: it was picked up by Australia’s Channel 10 when original network Seven dropped it after its first year in 1985. When the BBC stopped showing it in 2008 after over 20 years, the loyal UK fan base fretted they’d be denied their daily dose of Oz drama, until Channel 5 stepped in and gave it a home until 2022. Fan power saved it before; whether it can do it again remains to be seen. The show will remain on Prime Video until the end of 2025, so there’s still a way to go – and Elmaloglou is hoping this means yet more trauma for Terese. "I love her," she smiles. "She is such a lot of fun with so many different angles and things going on, it’s been constantly fun. I wouldn’t have stayed this long if the writers didn’t love creating stories for her. I feel blessed with this character." If this really is the end of the line (or should that be cul-de-sac?), Elmaloglou is already thinking about life after Neighbours. With her half-British heritage on her mother’s side (Dame Judi Dench is actually her cousin, would you believe), she is eyeing up possible work on these shores… "Personally, for myself and my family, I’ve got to move forward. Last time I had to sell my house in Melbourne where Neighbours is filmed, move to a different state and we all had to get on with her lives, as we do now. I’m actually in the process of getting a UK agent." And what about tough cookie Terese, has the star thought about her swan song? "As you can imagine, we’re all coming up with fabulous ideas for our characters to be the main storyline of the next finale! I’d definitely like to see Terese and Paul in a really good place. "The producers are sitting on it at the moment, I’m not sure if they’ve even properly planned anything yet, but there are some full-on amazing suggestions being thrown around. "It’s heartbreaking to think it’s ending, but whatever happens, Neighbours will always be remembered as iconic!" Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours spoilers reveal Anne Charleston return - but there's a twist Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis says 40th "means nothing now" after cancellation
"It’s really made the 40th anniversary a bit wishy-washy now."
It's a strange time for Neighbours fans, as while the soap is marking its momentous 40th anniversary this year, it was also recently announced that it has been cancelled, with the current run coming to an end at the end of 2025. It seems it's also a strange time for the show's stars, as Stefan Dennis, who has played Paul Robinson on and off since the very first episode, has given his own thoughts when speaking with TV Tonight. "It’s really made the 40th anniversary a bit wishy-washy now," Dennis said of the cancellation. "It’s a bit of a shame, because it’s an incredible accolade for an Australian show to say they’ve been going for 40 years other than other than news and current affairs. "But unfortunately, that’s now being completely and utterly overshadowed by the fact that the show is now on its way out. So the 40th anniversary means nothing now. It’s a bit of a shame." Dennis also spoke about his bumpy ride with the soap since its beginning, saying: "I’ve actually left the show five times. "I left the show when it was axed from Channel Seven in 1985, I left my own volition in 1992 when I was going to go out and sow my wild seeds, I came back in 2004." He continued: "So this is five times that I’ve actually left the show. But it’s three times that this show has actually been axed which has created yet another piece of history. It’s the only show in the world, as an ongoing serial, that’s been axed three times." Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks Neighbours spoilers reveal Anne Charleston return - but there's a twist Executive producer Jason Herbison recently revealed the reason for the cancellation, explaining it was because Amazon Freevee was shut down by Prime Video. Meanwhile, Terese Willis star Rebekah Elmaloglou told RadioTimes.com exclusively that she was "grateful" for the extra two years the show got after its 2022 cancellation. "But there is another side of me thinking we’ll definitely never get picked up again now," she explained. "Last time, there were whispers going around about the Amazon deal. This time round it feels a little bit more real." Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours boss explains why Amazon cancelled beloved soap after two and a half years
The show boss still remains grateful to Amazon for the opportunity to revive the soap.
It came as a shock to fans worldwide when Amazon announced Neighbours would be coming to yet another end, just two years after it was revived by the streamer. The soap was first cancelled by Channel 5, before being revived by Amazon Freevee and in December 2025, the soap will be "resting", with it not wholly clear as to why the decision was made. Now, Neighbours boss Jason Herbison has revealed why the soap was axed, despite its strong ratings and the show's first ever Daytime Emmy nomination. "We were considered a very big success on Amazon Freevee, and we're so grateful to them for this chapter and this two and a half years," Herbison told TV Tonight. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2022/11/GROUP-4-Alan-Fletcher-Stefan-Dennis-Jackie-Woodburne-Ryan-Moloney-April-Rose-Pengilly-1739bee.jpg" width="6720" height="4480" alt="Alan Fletcher, Stefan Dennis, Jackie Woodburne, Ryan Moloney, Annie Jones for Neighbours looking into camera" title="Alan Fletcher, Stefan Dennis, Jackie Woodburne, Ryan Moloney, Annie Jones for Neighbours (FREMANTLE)" /> "The team at Amazon Freevee did an incredible job of launching us over there. I think we were on bus stops all across the UK, it was amazing and they have been wonderful to work with." Towards the end of last year, Amazon Freevee was shut down and Herbison noted that the closure of the ad-supported streamer "did change the landscape" as the soap was "just not simply part of their [Prime Video] content strategy going forward". "And there's really no hard feelings with that," he told the publication. "Things change and as I say, we’re just very grateful to them to have had this chapter." Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks EastEnders airs tragic death as icon leaves soap after 40 years The show's ending will mark its 40th anniversary, with Herbison teasing that the final episode will be "a little bit different". "I certainly wouldn't want to repeat myself – that was a great finale, I loved writing that episode," Herbison told 10 News First. "It was incredible that everyone came back for it. I don't know, I think this time around it would be a little bit of a different tone. "But just as we said before, we were resting the show, we do see Neighbours as eternal. Who knows about the future? So I think whatever ending, it will be a door left open kind of ending again." Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours star reveals whether they think axed soap can be saved again
Rebekah Elmaloglou shares her feelings on the end of Erinsborough.
The news that Neighbours is being axed for a second time in three years is sinking in not just for fans of the Australian soap but for the cast as well. When Channel 5 cancelled the iconic show in 2022, a wave of audience support convinced Amazon to revive it within a matter of months. Two years later and the streamer has unexpectedly pulled the plug, but can fan power save the residents of Ramsay Street again? “The fact we were given those extra two years is amazing and I’m grateful for that,” says Rebekah Elmaloglou, aka Terese Willis, speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com. "But there is another side of me thinking we’ll definitely never get picked up again now. Last time, there were whispers going around about the Amazon deal. This time round it feels a little bit more real." Elmaloglou reveals the news was broken to her over the phone just hours after touching down, following the cast’s trip to the UK for Neighbours' recent 40th anniversary tour. "I’d landed at about two in the morning, had a couple of hours sleep then woke up to lots of text messages and phone calls from the team wanting to speak to me ASAP, as the story had been leaked to the press. "The producers were actually waiting to meet with the cast and crew once we got back from the UK to tell us all,” she explains. "Unfortunately, the news got out and they had to gather everyone in the studio as soon as they arrived at 7.30am before they heard it through the grapevine. That happened last time, which is pretty poor form and disappointing. But it’s not so much about how we found out, it’s just a shame Neighbours has been cancelled again." Amazon’s initial two-year deal expired at the end of 2024, but instead of a long-term renewal, the production was given a three month extension, meaning filming would continue until July while, presumably, negotiations were being discussed – which ultimately led to the announcement Neighbours would be ‘resting’ after the last episodes air in December. Although admitting she had an inkling of uncertainty, Elmaloglou acknowledges the axe has fallen more swiftly than anyone expected, and the cast and crew are still processing the development. “I had my feelings and my doubts but honestly thought we might get a little longer,” she admits. “Maybe another year would have been nice. I was of the understanding the show had been doing well but I don’t really know the ins and outs. "They’ve made their decision, it’s business, but it’s really disappointing, especially for our UK fans. After the success of the anniversary tour, it doesn’t make sense. I’ve seen a lot of support, I know the fans are doing petitions, which is so appreciated. It worked last time, maybe it will again?” Look out for the full exclusive interview with Elmaloglou on RadioTimes.com as part of Neighbours’ 40th anniversary on 18th March. Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks EastEnders airs tragic death as icon leaves soap after 40 years Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours spoilers reveal Anne Charleston return - but there's a twist
Neighbours has teased the return of a show legend, as former star Anne Charleston makes her return for the 40th anniversary of the Australian soap. Having played Madge Bishop, beloved wife of Harold (Ian Smith), from 1986 to 2001, Charleston made cameo appearances after the character's death, right up until 2022. So, is Madge set to appear as another vision to Harold? Not this time! Charleston is in fact playing brand new Neighbours character Agnes Adair. When Nell Rebecchi (Ayisha Salem-Towner) puts on an art exhibition called 'The Story of Erinsborough', Agnes takes an interest in the teen's impressive work. Agnes is drawn to an image of Madge, and JJ Varga-Murphy (Riley Bryant) notices that the pair bear a striking resemblance to each other! JJ fills Nell in, and the youngsters later take a picture of Agnes. But just who is this woman, and could she be related to the late Madge? We can't help wondering if Neighbours is unveiling another secret long-lost twin saga, years after Dee Bliss discovered she had an identical twin sister. But as yet, no more information has been released, so we'll just have to wait and see what's really going on concerning Agnes! View oEmbed on the source website A new trailer, though, reveals Harold's confusion as he comes face-to-face with someone who looks exactly like his late wife. Charleston's comeback comes as her long-term co-star Smith prepares to step down from his iconic role, but how will Harold respond to meeting Agnes? Read more: Neighbours confirmed to end in December 2025 as soap cancelled after two years of Amazon revival Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks EastEnders airs tragic death as icon leaves soap after 40 years Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Selling Sunset's Chrishell Stause hopes Neighbours has a "dramatic return" despite cancellation
"One thing I've learned from soaps is you're never really dead."
Selling Sunset's Chrishell Staus is hoping for another return to Ramsay Street, despite Neighbours' shock cancellation just last week. It was confirmed that the Australian soap would be "resting" from December 2025 after being revived just two years ago by Amazon Freevee. As actors and fans have shared their reactions to the news, former star Chrishell has given her opinion that the show will return one way or another. "Spending a month with you guys showed me what a beautiful community you have built," the actress wrote on Instagram Stories. "It was an honour to be embraced by the kindest Aussies I've met in front and behind the camera." She continued: "One thing I've learned from soaps is you're never really dead. I will await and cheer for your dramatic return from the afterlife. I've come back from the dead TWICE. Wishing Neighbours the same dramatic return!" The soap's reboot began airing in September 2023, but Amazon MGM Studios have confirmed it will not be moving forward with additional episodes after the end of this year, which marks the soap's 40th anniversary. Jason Herbison, Neighbours Executive Producer said in a statement posted to the soap's social media pages: "Audiences all around the world have loved and embraced Neighbours for four decades and we are very proud of the huge success over the last two years including often appearing as one of the Top 10 titles in the UK and the show’s first ever Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Daytime Series in 2024. "As this chapter closes, we appreciate and thank Amazon MGM Studios for all that they have done for Neighbours – bringing this iconic and much-loved series to new audiences globally. "We value how much the fans love Neighbours and we believe there are more stories of the residents of Ramsay Street to tell in the future." Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours confirmed to end in December 2025 as soap cancelled after two years of Amazon revival
It looks like we'll be saying goodbye to Ramsay Street once more – at least, for now.
Three years after it was announced that Neighbours was being cancelled, and just over two years after the show was revived, it has been announced that the soap will be "resting" from December 2025. The soap has had a tumultuous history in recent years, with it first being cancelled by Channel 5, before being revived by Amazon Freevee just months after a climactic finale aired. The reboot started airing in September 2023, but it has now been confirmed that Amazon MGM Studios will not be moving forward with further episodes after the end of this year, which marks the show's 40th anniversary. Jason Herbison, Neighbours Executive Producer said in a statement posted to the soap's social media pages: "Audiences all around the world have loved and embraced Neighbours for four decades and we are very proud of the huge success over the last two years including often appearing as one of the Top 10 titles in the UK and the show’s first ever Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Daytime Series in 2024. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2024/03/neighbours-paul-terese-toadie-a2ee399.jpg" width="3242" height="2160" alt="Terese sits in the middle of Paul and Toadie. She has her head down and is crying. Paul is on the left also sitting which his arm around her. Toadie is stood on the right with his arm on her shoulder. They are consoling her." title="Neighbours' Paul, Terese and Toadie (AMAZON)" /> "As this chapter closes, we appreciate and thank Amazon MGM Studios for all that they have done for Neighbours – bringing this iconic and much-loved series to new audiences globally. "We value how much the fans love Neighbours and we believe there are more stories of the residents of Ramsay Street to tell in the future." In a statement, Amazon MGM Studios said it was "proud" to have played "a small part" in Neighbours history, noting that "40 years is an incredible milestone". The company hasn't revealed a reason for the cancellation. Read more: Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks EastEnders airs tragic death as icon leaves soap after 40 years The show's first finale, which aired back in 2022, saw returns for iconic stars from the show's past, including Margot Robbie, Guy Pearce, Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan. We don't yet know how this iteration of the show will leave off at the end of 2025, but we do know that the 40th anniversary celebrations will see returning stars back in Erinsborough. Meanwhile, Harold Bishop star Ian Smith will soon be seen exiting his role on the soap, after the actor was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours star teases Terese and Paul's future and 40th anniversary cast comebacks
Rebekah Elmaloglou is in the UK for the soap's 40th anniversary tour.
They may have only just got back together, but iconic Neighbours couple Terese Willis and Paul Robinson are already facing a threat to the future of their reignited romance. Terese’s protective stepdaughter Nell Rebecchi is suspicious of slippery Paul and accuses him of having an affair in scenes released this week. It transpires she’s got the wrong end of the stick, but Terese realises the teenager is a long way from accepting the revived relationship. Speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com, Australian soap favourite Rebekah Elmaloglou, who plays Terese, explained Nell’s attitude: "Nell has such a traumatic history and a lot of abandonment issues after losing her mum. She does not trust Paul and makes that very clear. Her and Terese definitely butt heads." Asked what Terese would do if she was forced to choose between her lover and her stepchild, Elmaloglou replied: "That’s a very interesting question! "I think she is a woman of her word and would protect Nell at all costs, she takes her stepmother duties and responsibilities very seriously, even though her and Nell’s dad Toadie have split up. "As for whether Terese and Paul are for keeps this time, who knows? I am thrilled to be back working with Stefan Dennis. I missed him! "It would be a real shame to split them up now. Of course there’ll be roadblocks ahead, it wouldn’t be Neighbours if there wasn’t, but to what degree I don’t know…" Neighbours celebrates its 40th anniversary next month, ahead of which some old faces return in the coming weeks, including Zima Anderson, AKA Terese’s niece Roxy Canning. "Roxy is a little dynamite, her and Zima are a breath of fresh air to have around," Elmaloglou explained. "When the character returns, she does a few naughty little things, and Terese gets very disappointed in her. But Roxy’s always up to no good!" Elmaloglou is in the UK for Neighbours’ 40th Anniversary Tour, joining past and present cast members – Lucinda Cowden (Melanie Pearson), Tim Kano (Leo Tanaka), Majella Davis (Krista Sinclair), Kym Valentine (Libby Kennedy) and Dan Paris (Drew Kirk) – for a celebration of all things Ramsay Street and a trip down memory lane. "It’s like a chat show live on stage," explains the star. "Lots of conversation about the characters, past storylines, videos including old footage and some fun bloopers! There also might be a little song and dance… "We’re having so much fun. Lucinda, Tim, Majella and I are close friends, I’ve known Kym on and off since we were kids when she was originally in Neighbours and I did Home and Away. I’d never met Dan before but he is lovely. "We get such a great reception in the UK, everyone appreciates the show more than they do in Australia. I warn you now, Kym, Lucinda and I are the loudest three women ever, so no one else might get a word in!" Neighbours: The 40th Anniversary Tour runs until 18th February, with full details available now. Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours announces returnees ahead of 40th anniversary
But what brings them back to Ramsay Street?
As Neighbours gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary, the soap is welcoming back some much-loved cast members for the landmark episode. The official Neighbours social media account confirmed that Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien) would be making a return to check in on his son Max. But that isn't all. Roxy Willis/Canning will also be returning, but details of why she has come back to Ramsay Street remain under wraps. View oEmbed on the source website Back in 2022, actress Zima Anderson left her role of Roxy as the character departed for a fresh start with her husband Kyle Canning. Speaking of her exit at the time, Anderson told Digital Spy: "I had done my three years. On Neighbours, you mainly sign up for three years. I'd promised myself that after three years, I would challenge myself. "You get so comfortable. Neighbours is the best school you could ever go to for acting. You never get an experience like that anywhere. I learned so much, I laughed so much and I'd grown so much as a human, so I felt that I needed to challenge myself in another direction. I felt like it worked out as perfect timing. "It was so hard to leave a place like that, because Neighbours is so incredible and fantastic. I love Roxy and she'll always be with me, but it was a choice to go and learn somewhere else, because I'd learned so much already." Shane Ramsay returned to Erinsborough with Max back in November last year, in a bid to escape a "dangerous situation". "Shane wants to help Max get on his feet," O'Brien told TV Week upon his return. "And to get him away from bad influences." Now Shane is back once more to check in on Max, but will drama follow? Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours 2025 preview: 12 spoilers for the year ahead
Exclusive teasers from the soap’s big boss…
It’s been a game-changing year in Erinsborough with emotional exits, surprise returns and scandalous secrets aplenty. 2025 looks set to be even bigger as Neighbours celebrates its 40th anniversary with the new season starting on 6th January and RadioTimes.com has an exclusive peek of the sensational storylines in store, courtesy of the soap’s executive producer Jason Herbison. Read on for our fantastic storyline preview for what's ahead in Neighbours. Neighbours 2025 spoiler preview Pregnant Chelsea’s shock return “Our 2024 season finale included a brief flash of Chelsea Murphy, Cara’s sister and Paul’s old flame. It’s not clear why she’s back in Melbourne or whether she even intends to approach Paul and Terese. She’s been at large for almost nine months and there are reasons why she hasn’t come forward with her pregnancy sooner. All I can say is – expect the unexpected!” Crash carnage aftermath “Sadie, Max and Seb were involved in an accident in the finale cliffhanger which has implications for everyone in the new year. There is a question over the target – was it Seb or Max? Both young men are dealing with demons from their pre-Erinsborough lives and this will bring plenty of drama in the weeks to come, especially as we approach the 40th anniversary in March. Talking of which...” Max’s mysterious past “We know Max came to town because he was running away from something his dad Shane was desperate to get him away from. In 2025 Max’s past will catch up with him in an explosive way. It will bring trouble to someone very close to him – and relax, it’s not poor old Holly this time, who’s got enough going on elsewhere!” Harold’s emotional farewell “Harold’s exit as we head towards spring is extremely emotional for the residents of Erinsborough, just as it was for all of us behind-the-scenes. We had quite a long storyline planned which we sadly had to truncate, due to Ian Smith’s declining health. However, it was gorgeous to see Ian and Anne Charleston back on screen together, though we’re not revealing the details of who Anne will play. I’m sure there won’t be a dry eye in the house when the episodes go to air.” Yaz’s deadly revenge on Holly “Yaz is deeply conflicted about Holly and her role in her brother Heath’s death. Since coming to Erinsborough, Yaz has seen trouble seems to follow Holly around – can she really be so innocent? There are many unanswered questions and she just wants to know the truth. Everything builds to the Erinsborough Lights Up event in early January which I think is one of the best episodes we’ve ever done. As for Holly’s future, she has found herself in one calamity after the next but it’s all building to something big down the track.” Meet Remi’s brother “One of our new characters for 2025 is Taye, played by Lakota Johnson, Remi’s younger half-brother on her father’s side. There is a significant age difference and they’ve grown up somewhat estranged. The reasons for the estrangement will be explored and lead to a new understanding. As a side note, Lakota actually auditioned for a different role. We were so impressed we created the role of Taye just for him! He has a great energy and we’re having lots of fun with the character.” Rodwells return to big drama “The Rodwells have been absent for a little while but Andrew will be back very soon in the new year, followed by Wendy a short time after that. I can confirm 2025 will be a very big year for this family – in fact it’s their biggest year yet on the show…” Krista’s long-lost family “Krista has a complicated family tree, spanning many countries. Fallon Morrell, played by Kate Connick, is her younger sister from her mother’s side, though she was raised in the US with her American father. Fallon isn’t from money like Krista or Reece, and she’s had a very different upbringing to her Sinclair siblings. They are very different people. Fallon’s arrival spells trouble for many residents of Erinsborough!” Seb wrecks Krista and Leo’s wedding? “Krista and Leo love each other, however there are issues they need to work through. Seb is the catalyst for these issues coming to light but not entirely the cause. Krista feels responsible for the path Seb has taken, having first introduced him to drugs. She’s on an eternal mission to get him back on the straight and narrow, causing conflict with Leo. We are certainly steaming towards a wedding for Leo and Krista, but will they get their happy ever after?” Kennedy crisis – and comebacks “The Kennedys are always central to the action in Ramsay Street. Karl and Susan will be back in the thick of storylines in early March, in time for the 40th anniversary. We have a huge storyline launching that week for them and it will continue to have repercussions for many months to come. They will be joined by a family member from the past – someone who we have wanted to bring back for some time…” New romance “After some heartbreak in 2024, Jane has a new romance coming up which has been one of my favourite storylines in recent times. We love it when Jane is out of her comfort zone which creates a lot of opportunities, and Annie Jones does a wonderful job of playing this. Widowed Aaron will also be back in the love game very soon, there might even be more than one romantic interest on the horizon for him!” 40th anniversary celebrations “Our 40th anniversary in March will be a celebration of everything our viewers love about Neighbours. There are elements of nostalgia but it’s more about looking forward than looking back. We always want to honour the heritage of the show, but recognise we need to keep evolving. Expect big stories, big twists, new regular characters as well as returning guest favourites, including some who have not been back since their original stints. 2025 is going to be an epic year!” Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours' Harold Bishop exiting after Ian Smith, 86, diagnosed with terminal cancer
Smith has already filmed his final scenes.
Neighbours star Ian Smith will be exiting his role as Harold Bishop following the actor being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Smith, 86, received a pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma diagnosis earlier this year and has undergone three rounds of chemotherapy. "I found out a few months back that I have cancer," he told 10 News First. "I have a very aggressive, non-fixable cancer, and they expect me to die." View oEmbed on the source website He continued: "I want to stay alive with quality as long as I can. If they can do that, I'm very happy. But I wake up every morning hoping there's no pain because I know that's the beginning of the bad part." Due to his diagnosis, Smith has left his role in Neighbours and has already filmed his final scenes for the Australian soap. Neighbours shared the news of Smith's departure on its Instagram page, beginning: "Harold waves goodbye to Ramsay Street." The statement continues: "We're sharing the sad news that Ian Smith will soon be stepping away from the beloved role of Harold Bishop. "Ian first played Harold in 1987 and it's been a huge privilege to welcome him back to the show over the years, most recently in the current season." Anne Charleston will be reprising her role as Madge Bishop and will join Smith in some of his final scenes. "In what context Anne will appear is yet to be revealed, but to have the iconic couple reunited will be one final treat for fans," the statement continued. "Erinsborough won't quite be the same again, but rest assured that Harold is set to have a send-off fit for Ramsay Street royalty." Read more: Neighbours airs Toadie's emotional exit - as fan favourites left in danger Neighbours' Lucinda Cowden confirms Melanie Pearson axed from soap in "a bitter old pill to swallow" Executive producer Jason Herbison said of the news: "The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we feel about Ian - we couldn't love him more than we do. "Despite the challenges he was facing with his health, he wanted to give Harold a proper send-off. "It was a very emotional moment on set as we paid tribute to him and the incredible contribution he has made to the show." Back in May, Smith returned to the soap as a regular cast member for the first time in 15 years, telling RadioTimes.com: "I made the mistake of thinking I had retired!" He said: "I thought I had made enough provisions, but no. I had about four wonderful things to do, but you can't do the same four things for the rest of your life. And so I was getting a bit bored and while I was out fishing one day, the phone rang – it was Neighbours asking me if I would come back. "I took all of a tenth of a second then said, 'Yes, please!' What actor at the age of 85 can experience that beautiful thing of doing something they love, being in a studio, standing in front of a camera and everyone telling them they’re wonderful? And I only film one day a week, so it's lots of lovely bits and bobs." Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours spoilers confirm unexpected romantic fling for two classic characters
Things are set to get unexpectedly romantic for two Neighbours characters in next week's episodes, it's now been revealed. In scenes set to air next Monday 25th November, a surprise fling will unfold between Jane Harris (Annie Jones) and Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien). While unexpected, the pair are nursing broken hearts over their own respective relationship break-ups. Jane recently realised that things weren't all rosy between her and ex-husband Victor, having initially reunited but soon realising that he had a better bond with Melanie. Although having just returned to Ramsay Street for a little while, Shane has opened up about his split with Izzy Hoyland, and it seems like Jane and Shane will debrief about their own matters of the heart over a drink. Of course, the pair have been old flames in the past, and that's set to be reignited once again. Things are set to turn flirty between the pair, but they quickly put a lid on it so as not to alter their longheld friendship. But things take a turn when Shane reveals that he's set to leave Erinsborough, and clearly sparks start to fly. They're set to get discovered by Nicolette and Max, who stumble upon them, but what will this spell for Jane? With Shane set to leave once again, will she be able to easily say goodbye or could a romantic future actually be on the cards for the pair? Read more: Neighbours airs Toadie's emotional exit - as fan favourites left in danger Neighbours' Lucinda Cowden confirms Melanie Pearson axed from soap in "a bitter old pill to swallow" Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours' Lucinda Cowden confirms Melanie Pearson axed from soap in "a bitter old pill to swallow"
The soap is bidding farewell to another big name.
Neighbours star Lucinda Cowden has revealed that she is leaving the Amazon Freevee soap opera – and that it wasn't her decision to do so. The long-running Australian drama was resurrected by the free ad-supported streaming platform following a major outcry over its sudden cancellation back in 2022. Cowden was among several stars to reprise their role, but she has now revealed that her character, Melanie Pearson, will be leaving Ramsay Street in the near future as her contract was not renewed. "I am unemployed!" she told NeighBens Podcast, before adding that it was "a bitter old pill to swallow". "I'm off, it's true. I'm sorry. I can't do anything about it, it wasn't my bloody decision. But yeah, Mel's off in her truck and doesn't have any plans of return immediately." Cowden's is the latest exit to be announced for the Aussie soap, with her on-screen flame Ryan Moloney (Toadie Rebecchi), plus Georgie Stone (Mackenzie Hargreaves) and Shiv Palekar (Haz Devkar), also bidding farewell to the programme. She admitted: "I don't think they knew what to do with Mel without Toad, or without the family and all of that stuff. That's maybe... I don't know, I'm second guessing. "And you just make up all this stuff in your head anyway to make yourself feel better." The actor did reveal that Mel will at least get a proper send-off, with a farewell episode that will see her good neighbours/good friends throw her a party wishing good luck for her next chapter. Alas, Cowden added that she broke her nose during the filming of that episode after tripping on the set. Fans of Mel shouldn't despair, however, as the actor went on to tease she will make a brief return to Neighbours "for a couple of episodes" after her formal exit – and that she hopes that won't be the end of her character's journey. "Hopefully they're going to keep Mel in the world and she can pop in and out occasionally," added Cowden. "Or more often than occasionally – regularly!" The star has been on quite a journey with Neighbours, beginning with her first stint on the show from 1987 to 1991, before an extended absence that ended when she became a series regular once more in 2021. Neighbours is available to stream on Amazon Freevee. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours' Ryan Moloney on Toadie's emotional exit and why the character had to be axed
The Aussie soap icon talks exclusively to Johnathon Hughes about saying goodbye to Ramsay Street.
It’s the end of an era on Ramsay Street this week, as Toadie Rebecchi leaves Neighbours after 29 years today (Wednesday 25th September). The character has grown up on screen from a tearaway teenager to a responsible middle-aged dad, and made actor Ryan Moloney one of the Australian soap’s most identifiable faces. After such a long stint, you’d assume Moloney himself chose to move on, but surprisingly the decision came from the producers. It’s hard to imagine Neighbours without the inimitable Toadfish, but the actor admits this was a long time coming, and probably should’ve happened a while ago. "I’ve wanted to leave a number of times over the years, but if someone keeps offering you this amazing job, it’s hard to turn it down," explains Moloney, speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com. "The producers decided they didn’t want to renew my next 12-month contract, and the biggest gift they could give me is to take that decision out of my hands, so I thank them. I’d always thought 'what if?' when it came to contract time, whereas now it’s a case of 'what now?', and it’s really exciting." Toadie’s consistent popularity presumably meant Moloney was never bored in terms of getting his fair share of storylines over the last three decades: multiple failed marriages, heartbreaking bereavements, lost loves coming back from the dead, not to mention more light-hearted material such as a Full Monty-style striptease and a love of wrestling. So, what inspired the moments where he considered quitting prior to this year? "It was various reasons of either wanting to do something else, the adventure of life and needing new experiences. Other times it was about feeling valued and wanting to be paid more. I’ve come really close to leaving, and now it’s a reality I’m super excited and can’t wait." Toadie’s exit storyline has been unusually dark and deep for Neighbours, which is synonymous with sunshine and optimism. The happy-go-lucky joker has suffered a mental health crisis as numerous past tragedies have finally taken their psychological toll, leading to a breakdown that forced him to reevaluate his life, end his marriage fourth wife Terese and leave Erinsborough and its painful memories behind. We’ve dug deeper into what makes Toadie tick than ever before, which Moloney has relished. "Knowing I was leaving, we had a chance to tell a story I think is of value that highlights mental health issues," he enthuses. "If we don’t start seeing things like this on TV and give them a platform to be discussed, then we can’t fix them. They keep getting demonised and pushed away. I appreciated that opportunity. "In soaps, all these terrible things happen to a character and magically they just get over it – with Toadie, we’re acknowledging that’s not the case, and everything’s been bubbling away underneath. Maybe for the first time we’re actually being honest." Moloney makes a salient point, but while he’s pleased Toadie was chosen to show the psychological impact of a lifetime of heightened soap tragedy, played out in a distressing moment of psychosis while stranded in the outback, he confesses a frustration it wasn’t pushed further. "I think we could’ve done it better," he says, candidly. "Perhaps we avoided really showing what happened. When I watched some of it I knew there was a lot that was cut out, and I was disappointed in that aspect. But the time frames in soap are just silly in terms of telling a lot of story in a very short period of time. "In order to make Toadie’s storylines resonate with the audience over so many years, I’ve had to make them real for me. I’ve taken myself to many dark places within these last six months, there wasn’t a lot of smiling! "I am quite glad now we can wrap it all up and put it to bed. I have a tattoo with the Omega sign on it which people think symbolises is the end of something, but the meaning is actually completion and there being nothing more to add – that’s Toadie and Neighbours. We’re done there." Only in front of the camera, as Moloney is remaining with the show in a different capacity. Like other former colleagues including Kate Kendall (who played Lauren Turner) and Scott Major (aka Lucas Fitzgerald), he’s hopping behind the scenes to become a director. "I’ve started training and I’m absolutely loving it," he beams. "In my first meeting I felt this is where I need to be. I’m looking forward to telling multiple layers of stories and being collaborative, using everything from the script to props, staging, sound, and giving the performers a platform to shape the emotions." It feels a natural progression for someone practically raised on the set of a fast-paced continuing drama, where you soak up every aspect of TV production to the point where it becomes second nature. Moloney was 15 when he started playing Jarrod 'Toadfish' Rebecchi in 1995, although he’d briefly appeared as a different character called Cyborg the year before (clearly he’s attracted to unusual names). Like many future Erinsborough icons who start young on the soap, he learnt from the legends. "I particularly remember watching Jackie Woodburne (Susan Kennedy) and Ian Smith (Harold Bishop) work. They were such skilful performers and could do a range of styles. To be able to hold an audience in silence and with just a look, to take the viewer where you want – that’s what I watched. Also the way they carried themselves on set and their professionalism meant they earned a level of respect." Cheeky class clown Toadie, with his unforgettable 1990s mullet haircut, was an immediate hit with viewers, which Moloney puts down to him being one of life’s lovable losers. "Characters need to have a true core, and he is the underdog you want to see win. That’s how everyone feels about themselves in a way, they’re mirrored in watching Toadie get the win, only to lose again. That’s always been an important trait for him. "And I’ve always wanted to make being on this fun journey entertaining for the audience, and for me, and flip expectations whenever you can." While soap fans sob as Toadie leaves Erinsborough’s cosy cul-de-sac for a fresh start with the rest of the Rebecchi clan in Colac, Moloney is winding up his one-man show, which has been touring the UK over the last month. Toad on the Road is a nostalgic look back at his Neighbours highlights, in which the actor shares stories, spills secrets and bares his soul about life as a beloved soap star. "The idea was pitched to me last November from the team who did the Neighbours Celebration Tour in 2023. I knew I’d be leaving the show by then, so I thought I’m free, why not? "We wanted it to be entertaining but also representative of me and my views, discussing topics like mental health and ADHD that actually matter on more than just a surface level. "It was also about understanding why we make TV in certain ways, what’s the process and structures behind it? "Through vision and soundscapes we built stories to bring TV to the stage. It’s been a really cool and beautiful experience, especially in terms of interacting with a live audience, which is what I grew up doing in comedic theatre as a kid. If this is the last time people see me perform, I’m glad this is what I’m leaving them with." Moloney is thoughtful, creative and curious, and his genuine excitement for the future and passion for storytelling reveal there’s much more to him than his famous alter ego. It's been revealed Toadie will be back for guest stints - and the actor has a clear vision for how this would look. "If he came back, I’d like him to have a bit more resolution over his life. Toadie was pushed to this snap and had to make himself better by way of some hard choices. It would be good to show him come through the darkness and get back to him being that fun-loving character. "I actually think it would be cool to see him in a prequel as a kid before he came to Erinsborough, rocking around Colac on his dirt bike in the early 1990s, his mum shouting at him as he rode off. That would be awesome!" We’ve had Young Sheldon, why not Young Toadie? Anything’s possible… Read more: Neighbours confirms Toadie Rebecchi return beyond exit scenes Neighbours boss explains decision to axe iconic Toadie Rebecchi Neighbours' Ryan Moloney on Toadie's exit: 'We took the character to the limits' Neighbours confirms surprise exit for Toadie Rebecchi – with a happy twist! Neighbours boss plans Lyn Scully tribute after Janet Andrewartha's death Neighbours continues on Amazon Freevee every Monday to Thursday from 7am. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.
Neighbours airs Toadie's emotional exit - as fan favourites left in danger
Poor Susan barely had time to catch her breath!
Neighbours aired Toadie Rebecchi's (Ryan Moloney) emotional exit in the latest edition of the Australian soap - but a dangerous twist saw the Ramsay Street residents quickly distracted from the day's events. As Toadie surveyed the street ahead of his departure, memories flooded his mind of his almost three decades living in Erinsborough - including his time living in the House of Trouser, his memorable haircuts and his marriage to beloved late wife Sonya (Eve Morey). As Toadie's estranged wife Terese (Rebekah Elmaloglou) told Paul (Stefan Dennis) that she couldn't face being anywhere near the festivities or Toadie, Toad's surrogate parents Susan (Jackie Woodburne) and Karl (Alan Fletcher) avoided saying goodbye to him. Hilariously joining in with the party theme, JJ (Riley Bryant) dressed as vintage Toadie, complete with curly ponytail - but this didn't deter Toadie from clearing the air with his daughter Nell's (Ayisha Salem-Towner) boyfriend. Nell and JJ vowed to commit to a long-distance relationship while she, Toadie and Hugo (Tanner Ellis-Anderson) live in Colac, while Toadie said goodbye to Melanie Pearson (Lucinda Cowden) and Harold Bishop (Ian Smith). In a particularly heartwarming scene, Karl and Susan shared their pride in Toadie, as he gifted them with a portrait of himself as he appeared in the 1990s. Having already said her goodbyes to the kids, Terese was convinced by Paul to see Toadie, and she wished him well after all. As Toadie, Nell and Hugo prepared to drive away, they were intercepted by his best pal Andrew (Lloyd Will), Karl and their friends, who pounced on the car with silly string before dropping their trousers in homage to his youth! With that, it was time for Toad to hit the road - while in real life, actor Moloney tours the UK with stories from his time on the show. Throughout the episode, Holly (Lucinda Armstrong Hall) was being watched by Justin, the man who held Toadie and Mel hostage. Aaron (Matt Wilson), Holly, Susan and Paul headed to the Waterhole for drinks - only for Justin to arrive and pull out a gun on the group! With Holly having spent Heath's (Ethan Panizza) stolen cash, his accomplice Justin wants paying - and lives are on the line! A first-look teaser for the next episode (Thursday 26th September 2024) saw Justin threaten that someone is going to die. Will anyone escape the siege? Read more: Neighbours confirms Toadie Rebecchi return beyond exit scenes Neighbours boss explains decision to axe iconic Toadie Rebecchi Neighbours' Ryan Moloney on Toadie's exit: 'We took the character to the limits' Neighbours confirms surprise exit for Toadie Rebecchi – with a happy twist! Neighbours boss plans Lyn Scully tribute after Janet Andrewartha's death Neighbours continues on Amazon Freevee every Monday to Thursday from 7am. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.
Neighbours confirms Toadie Rebecchi return beyond exit scenes
Ryan Moloney will be back on Ramsay Street.
Neighbours has confirmed that beloved character Toadie Rebecchi will return to the show, ahead of his exit scenes which are due to air this week. Earlier this year, actor Ryan Moloney announced his decision to step down from the iconic Australian soap after 29 years in the role. In recent scenes, Toadie revealed his plan to move his family to Colac to be near his parents, following his split from wife Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou). While Toadie's teenage daughter Nell (Ayisha Salem-Towner) was not impressed, she ultimately came round to the idea, and we'll soon see the locals bid the Rebecchis a fond farewell. But, as reported in TV Tonight, we'll definitely be seeing Toadie again. A Channel 10 spokesperson confirmed to the publication: "He will return from time to time for guest appearances on the show." Rejoice, Neighbours fans! We already know that Moloney will be developing a career as a director behind the scenes, and Toadie's final regular appearance will broadcast on Wednesday 25th September 2024. The actor is currently travelling the UK with his show, Toad on the Road, and recently told Digital Spy that he has five weeks left on his contract, which Neighbours will use to spread out guest appearances across the next few months. Sadly, beyond this commitment, Moloney has confirmed that there are no plans for a Neighbours comeback beyond these promised cameos. He has also told RadioTimes.com that he's very happy with his exit storyline, feeling that Toadie has been taken to the limit. Read more: Neighbours boss explains decision to axe iconic Toadie Rebecchi Neighbours' Ryan Moloney on Toadie's exit: 'We took the character to the limits' Neighbours confirms surprise exit for Toadie Rebecchi – with a happy twist! Neighbours boss plans Lyn Scully tribute after Janet Andrewartha's death Selling Sunset star Chrishell Stause joins Neighbours cast Neighbours continues on Amazon Freevee every Monday to Thursday from 7am. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.
Neighbours airs distressing update for Mackenzie - will she die?
Death in the Outback had dreadful consequences.
Death in the Outback week was extremely dramatic on Neighbours, with one left for dead by the end of it. But the repercussions of the week continue to rock Erinsborough today (27th August 2024), as people come to terms with what happened. Namely Mackenzie (Georgie Stone), who was sent to hospital after being shot by Heath (who was killed by a rogue crocodile). She seemed OK, recovering in care and reuniting with Haz and her friends. But later on, when Haz paid her another visit, she was sweating considerably and shaking. She asked Haz if it was hot in the room, and the barista realised she was burning up and began calling for a nurse. However, it wasn't long before Mackenzie completely passed out in his arms, with the monitor behind her beeping ominously. Will Mackenzie pull through? The action also centred around Toadie (Ryan Moloney) as he narrowly escaped death himself, which caused him to reevaluate his life. After some soul-searching, and a vision, he decided he could no longer be with Terese and called things off. Moloney appeared on Good Morning Britain today to discuss his exit, explaining how Neighbours has been his life. He explained: "I started when I was 15, so I’ve grown up on the show. And me personally, I’ve gotten married, had kids, built farms, learnt lots of other bits and pieces. It’s very much my life. "I’ve spent more time on Neighbours than I have off.” Read more: Neighbours' Lucinda Cowden teases 'danger' for Mel in dramatic Outback week Neighbours boss explains decision to axe iconic Toadie Rebecchi Neighbours' Ryan Moloney on Toadie's exit: 'We took the character to the limits' Neighbours continues on Amazon Freevee every Monday to Thursday from 7am. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Neighbours' Lucinda Cowden teases "danger" for Mel in dramatic Outback week
Lucinda Cowden has teased danger for her Neighbours character Melanie Pearson, as she finds herself caught up in a dramatic week in the Outback. When Holly Hoyland (Lucinda Armstrong Hall) and dodgy new boyfriend Heath Royce (Ethan Panizza) venture to the Outback for a holiday, Mel and her ex-husband Toadie Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) are drawn into the chaos when things turn sinister. While all eyes may be on Toadie, who is set to make his exit in the coming weeks, Mel will also be taking centre stage. In an exclusive interview with RadioTimes.com, Cowden explained just how grave the situation becomes for Mel. "She does end up in an incredible amount of danger, absolutely," the actress promised. "There's some pretty scary people out there, and she hurts herself quite early on, so it becomes quite difficult for her to be able to escape from said bad people! "Mel, she sort of gets into this just because she's worried about Toad, and she's concerned about his state of mind; so she goes with him to check these things out. So she's really unaware of what she's getting herself into." View oEmbed on the source website While viewers will have to keep watching to find out Mel's fate, Cowden was asked what it was like filming such intense scenes. "It was 44 and above degrees every day we were out there. And I don't think I've ever encountered so many flies in my entire life. I definitely ate about 7 of them! "It was really taxing, it was incredibly taxing. It was an incredibly difficult week to film, but it was also incredibly amazing to be in such an amazing location, and our crew were so incredible," she added. "I think it was a bit of a feat; we haven't done that sort of thing on Neighbours very often. So it was real stretch for not only the actors, but for everyone involved." Asked if Holly has any suspicions about Heath, Cowden's co-star Lucinda Armstrong Hall told RadioTimes.com: "No, no, not at all. "I think with Holly and Heath's love affair, it starts very innocent from Holly's end. I think she's attracted to the money, and initially the excitement of what he has, and it does evolve into something more emotional between them. "But she definitely doesn't suspect. She does know that he's a bad boy, and she's aware of that, but that's about the extent of it." Neighbours' Death in the Outback week continues until Thursday 22nd August on Amazon Freevee. Read more: Neighbours stars say Toadie and Mel split was inevitable Neighbours' Ryan Moloney on Toadie's exit: 'We took the character to the limits' Neighbours boss explains decision to axe iconic Toadie Rebecchi Neighbours continues on Amazon Freevee every Monday to Thursday from 7am. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.