The iconic Australian soap Neighbours is reportedly facing the axe once more, two years after Amazon revived the long-standing show on its streaming platform. This news comes two years after the streaming giant resurrected the soap following its cancellation by Channel 5 after a 37-year run. Amazon announced at the close of 2022 that it was reviving the legendary soap in a multi-year deal. The soap aired its final episode on July 29, featuring the return of stars such as Margot Robbie, Kylie Minogue and Guy Pearce in an emotional farewell.
It was reported that production of the beloved Aussie soap will cease this summer, with the final episode set to air at the end of the year. It's claimed that Amazon has informed Fremantle that their foray into soaps hasn't been successful, leading to a withdrawal of funding.
An insider told the Sun: "Amazon gave Fremantle two years to see if it worked but sadly they just didn't get their viewers. It's a really sad day especially for the cast and crew who work on the show in Melbourne. This really is the end of Neighbours just as it's celebrated it's 40th birthday.".
Months later the final episode aired, Amazon stepped in to breathe new life into the programme, complete with a full makeover. Filming commenced in 2023 and the reboot was broadcast worldwide on Amazon Freevee, reports the Express. The revival earned its first two Emmy nominations last year for best daytime drama series and best guest performance for Guy Pearce. However, Amazon decided to scrap the service last year and incorporated it into its Prime Video streaming platform. Neighbours first aired on BBC One in 1986, a year after its premiere in Australia.
Almost 20 million UK viewers tuned in two years later to watch Scott, portrayed by Jason Donovan, and Charlene, played by Kylie Minogue, get hitched. This is a developing showbiz story, our entertainment team will be updating this article with the latest information as soon as we receive it.
When Neighbours was cancelled, a statement was released which said: "We are so sorry to say that after nearly 37 years and almost 9000 episodes broadcast we have to confirm that Neighbours will cease production in June. “Following the loss of our key broadcast partner in the UK and despite an extensive search for alternative funding, we simply have no option but to rest the show. To our amazing, loyal fans, we know this is a huge disappointment, as it is to all of us on the team. We thank you for all your messages and support and promise to end the show on an incredible high. From here on, we are celebrating Neighbours. #CelebratingNeighbours,” they added.
