When he needed to learn the art of villainy, Ramsay Street newcomer Tim Kano, who plays Leo, selected the perfect mentor.
Stefan Dennis has been on the show since it began 33 years ago. He’s a fan favourite as archvillain-come-loveable-schemer Paul Robinson.
“There are only two of us on Australian TV who have played the same character continuously – me and Ray Meagher [Alf from Home And Away],” Stefan says. “The character has been around for nearly 33 years.”
Tim, 32, adds: “That’s longer than I’ve been alive!”
The lads share an easy rapport.
The men first met when Tim auditioned for Neighbours two years ago. They’re now firm friends.
Tim admits he looks to soap veteran Stefan for guidance on how to play Leo’s testier characteristics.
“He’s been an amazing mentor from day one,” Tim says.
“Because he’s a loveable villain – everyone loves to hate Paul Robinson – and that’s a really hard line to draw.
“Coming in as his son, viewers could easily get a negative perception [of my character]. I’ve tried lots of different approaches, but Steffy has always steered me in the right direction.”
Stefan shows Tim how it’s done.
The co-stars catch up regularly over beers.
“Tim’s a bit of an enigma,” Stefan, 59, says. “You don’t know too much about him – until you get on the raz [go out drinking] with him!”
But when it comes to shooting their scenes, Tim keeps it strictly professional.
“You have to up your game working with Steffy,” he says.
“Do you?” Stefan laughs.
“You do,” Tim says. “You have to bring it – he’s amazing.”
