They say all good things must come to an end, but after nearly four decades, the blow was felt when it was announced that Neighbours was getting cancelled.
Now, the cast is revelling in the final months before the show’s final scenes air in September by taking to the Logies red carpet for the last time.
Sadly, Neighbours didn’t receive any Logie nominations, but the impact of its legacy was felt deeply at tonight’s event on the Gold Coast.
While recently talking to TV WEEK, long-time cast member Jackie Woodburne who plays Susan Kennedy, revealed her disbelief when she found out about the show’s cancelling.
“I was shocked and devastated,” she said. “I was heartbroken for all the young, up-and-coming actors and crew who will no longer have this amazing training ground. I will miss this place very much.”
Her co-star and on-screen husband, Alan Fletcher, who plays Karl Kennedy, said he felt for the actors who won’t be able to leverage the show for careers.
“It’s very sad for the hundreds of people who will lose their jobs,” said the 64-year-old. “But I’m also gutted for the millions of fans who still watch the show right around the world, who are distraught at losing their favourite show.”
Despite their disappointment, Jackie promised fans the show will go out with a bang.
“I can’t begin to imagine what kind of story will wrap up 38 years of TV history, but I hope it’s upbeat and happy, showcases our fantastic cast and crew and leaves the fans satisfied,” she explained.
Keep scrolling to see the Neighbours cast strut their stuff on the 2022 TV WEEK Logie Awards red carpet.
Natalie Bassingthwaighte and Daniel MacPherson paid tribute to the soap while presenting the Graham Kennedy Award for Best New Talent.
“Neighbours was my first ever job in the industry, I was 17 and straight out of high school. I made so many incredible lifelong friends, I was humbled to win this award in 1999, and I am sure whoever wins tonight was not even born and has no idea who we are,” said Dan.
Nat shared her memories from the show too. “I have so many amazing memories of my time in the show working with such brilliant actors and mentors Mac Jackie Woodburne, Alan Fletcher, Stefan Dennis in the house. And of course let’s not forget the amazing Harold, Mr Ian Smith, just to name a few. Having learned so much about the craft has set me up for all that I have done since,” remembered the singer.
The Neighbours cast clapped while their tribute played at the Logie Awards.
TA DA! The cast posed together with the most proud smiles on their faces.
Stefan and Ryan pose together for the last time at the Logie Awards.
Ben Turland brought a lot of class to the Logies.
April Rose Pengilly made quite a tickled pink entrance.
She spoke to TV WEEK about returning to the Logies. She said, “The last time I was here it was 2007. It’s great to be back with some of my really old friends and new friends and to be part of this legacy that is Neighbours. I’m really proud of it.
Lucinda Cowden looked beautiful in her gown while taking her moment on the red carpet.
April also revealed how she felt about playing her character on the show. She shared, “Honestly, it’s coming back this time around. It’s wearing the most beautiful costumes, it’s been given the freedom to go above and beyond with this character. She was a bit over the top so it was really fun every day to be a bit extra so I’ve loved it.”
Finally, she spoke about the Queen of pop Kylie Minogue returning to film the last episode of Neighbours ever.
“Well, Kylie but I didn’t see her! She was on the street filming and we were in the studio so we didn’t cross paths. Everyone that’s worked on that show should be proud of themselves. It really goes to show what an institution and what a stomping ground for all these amazing actors,” she said.
Richie Morris looked handsome in his daring blazer.
Georgia Stone arrived with Charlotte Chimes.
Tim Kano opted for a unique twist on a suit for the carpet.
Rebekah Elmaloglou arrived in striking purple.
Stefan Dennis arrived at the Logies looking dapper.
Iconic Ryan Moloney posed with Takaya Honda.
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