Neighbours has turned 35-years-old and they’re going all out!
In celebration of the milestone birthday, Neighbours is gifting fans with some familiar faces and some of the biggest drama we’ve ever seen.
This spectacular week is promising five weddings and three tragic deaths, with beloved characters from the past three-and-a-half decades guest starring for the occasion.
Everybody needs good neighbours…
(Image: Network Ten)MELISSA BELL
How have you enjoyed being back for the 35th anniversary?
It’s great – this is my first on-screen wedding, so I’m really excited! It was amazing to film.
Did you get much say about your wedding dress?
I think it’s one of the biggest dresses in the history of Neighbours – even bigger than Kylie’s [Charlene]. I got to pick any dress I wanted, it’s very fairytale, with a huge train and veil.
Throwback! Melissa reprises her role as feisty Lucy Robinson.
(Image: Network Ten)What’s it been like working with Bruce Samazan again?
I’ve worked with Bruce before where our characters have been together [on E Street]. I really like him as a person and we have a great connection, so the viewers are going to see a real chemistry there.
Bruce and Melissa reunite on set.
(Image: Network Ten)ANNIE JONES
How did you feel about your characters returning to the show for this huge storyline?
I’m thrilled that Jane is back, helping to celebrate 35 years of Neighbours. It was incredible getting to work with Paul Keane again.
How did it feel having them marry?
It was great fun – Paul and I just picked up as if 35 years was yesterday.
What was your favourite part of filming?
Getting to wear that beautiful dress! And having the opportunity to work with Melissa [Bell], Bruce [Samazan], Stephanie [McIntosh] and Olympia [Valance] for the first time.
What would you want to see for them next?
I’d love to see them live happily ever after… with the occasional bit of drama.
Another throwback!
(Image: Network Ten)
Annie returns as Jane Harris and Paul is back as Des Clarke.
(Image: Network Ten)OLYMPIA VALANCE AND SCOTT MCGREGOR
What’s it like being back on the Neighbours set together?
SCOTT: It’s great, like we haven’t left.
OLYMPIA: It’s fireworks from the start! Every time Scott and I are on screen, we have so much chemistry. It was too easy to make that spark real and justify Paige and Mark getting back together so quickly.
WATCH: Olympia Valance on the red carpet at TV WEEK Logie Awards. Story continues below…
How did you feel about your characters reuniting?
O: Scott deserves a happy ending – and everyone wants to see Paige happy. It’s how it should always have been. When Jason [Herbison, Neighbours‘ series producer] asked me to come back for the 35th, he said, “I know who you always wanted to end up with, so we’re going to marry you two!” And I said, “Yes! Sign me up!”
You both look amazing on the wedding day; did you get much say in your outfits?
O: I had 15 minutes to organise this wedding dress. [Costume designer] Grace loves lace, sent over options, I put one on and it was amazing.
S: I got no say! Nick from Costume, who is amazing, modernised it a little. Two of my brothers married in kilts – being a McGregor, we have the Scottish heritage.
The newlyweds are all loved up!
(Image: Network Ten)ANDREW MORLEY
What’s it like being back on set?
It’s really surreal. I live a very different life at the moment – I’m a full-time firefighter. When I got the offer to come back, it fell conveniently in my leave block, so I’m spending my holidays here. It feels like I’ve never left.
How does being a firefighter compare to acting?
Neighbours was always my favourite job, so I was really happy to get the invite. But it’s nice having so much time at home with the kids now. It’s a bit of a relief not having to cut my hair every two weeks and get into make-up
Jack swaps his firefighting uniform to play priest Jack Callahan.
(Image: Network Ten)DAMIEN BODIE & STEPH MCINTOSH
How do you feel to be back?
STEPH: I’m so thrilled! Damo and I have remained great friends all these years and we’ve talked about having a moment like this. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
DAMIEN: Neighbours was one of the most fun, most nurturing environments I’ve been in as an actor. Growing up watching it, then being on the show, then returning to it – and I still watch it every chance I can – having some of my best friends from this show… I cant love a show more.
WATCH: Eve and Ryan from Neighbours take on TV WEEK two minute challenge. Story continues below…
Sky and Dylan are back, but they’re caught in a love triangle of sorts with Lana…
D: Over the years, I’ve heard Dylan’s storyline mentioned on screen.Sky and Dylan have kids, they’re living in Queensland. He’s always been chasing Sky, [now] once again, he’s chasing Sky – he believes they should be together.
S: I’m really excited [Sky is marrying Lana]. It feels true and authentic, but I’ll always have a very special spot for Damien and Dylan, so I’m a little split about it!
Bad boy Dylan and rebellious Sky
(Image: Network Ten)
All smiles for Damien and Steph being back on set.
(Image: Network Ten)