Following news that UK network Channel 5 would no longer be airing the Australian serial, Neighbours will officially come to an end this summer after 37 years on the air.
The tragic news has inspired fans and current and former members of the soap’s cast to reminisce about their favourite moments from the show, as well as consider how they want things to end.
Jackie Woodburne, who plays Susan Kennedy on the programme, is no exception, and she told TV Week that she is looking forward to the show’s final few episodes.
“I have no idea what kind of storey will wrap off 38 years of television history,” she remarked, “but I hope it’s positive and happy, displays our amazing cast and crew, and leaves the viewers satisfied.”
Jackie and her long-time co-star Alan Fletcher, who plays her on-screen husband Karl Kennedy, have both expressed their sadness over the cancellation of the serial, with Jackie describing herself as “shocked and upset” when she learned of the news.
“I was heartbroken for all the young, up-and-coming performers and staff who would no longer have this incredible training ground,” she expressed her sadness. “I’m going to miss this place a lot.”
Alan continued, ” “The hundreds of individuals who will lose their employment will be devastated. But I’m also heartbroken for the millions of fans who continue to watch the show throughout the world and are heartbroken at the loss of their favourite show.”
The performers, who have played Susan and Karl on the serial since 1994 and have played a variety of dramatic storylines, said they are committed to celebrate the show’s “fun, comedy, drama, deep love, and humanity” in its final months.
And, of course, they gushed about their favourite characters.
“I believe the writers were successful in imbuing our characters with flaws and redeeming characteristics that resonated with viewers,” Alan added. “Many admirers have told me that Karl and Susan remind them of their own parents or themselves.”
“It is with sadness that after nearly 37 years and approximately 9000 episodes broadcast, we are revealing that Neighbours will cease production in the summer,” stated production company Fremantle in a statement earlier this month.
“We presently have no choice but to put the show on hold following the loss of a key broadcast partner in the UK, despite our efforts to find alternative funding.”
“As this chapter of Ramsay Street comes to a conclusion, we promise to do everything we can to give the programme the send-off it deserves,” the statement added.
