175-549: Malcolm Kennedy is a fictional character from the Australian television soap opera Neighbours , played by Benjamin McNair . Shortly after he was cast, McNair relocated to Melbourne to be closer to the studio. He admitted that it was a shock leaving his family and friends in Sydney. The older members of the cast eventually helped him feel more comfortable. He made his first appearance during
350-675: A 90-minute episode in Australia on 28 July 2022 on Network 10 and 10 Peach, while the finale in the United Kingdom aired on 29 July 2022 as a normal 30-minute episode in the regular daytime schedule followed by an hour-long prime-time episode. Due to timing, some scenes were cut from the UK showing. The finale was broadcast in Ireland on 3 August 2022 and in New Zealand on 2 September 2022. In November 2022, it
525-407: A 9:30 am daily time slot from 1 July to 30 August 1991. New York City station WWOR-TV showed Neighbours weekdays 5:30 pm from 17 June to 17 September 1991. Sixty-five selected episodes were aired from the beginning to where Charlene leaves Ramsay Street in 1988 in both markets. In April 2004, the show began broadcasting nationally on the television channel Oxygen . A spokeswomen from
700-483: A band formed by the local teens including Brett, Michael, Brett's sister, Danni ( Eliza Szonert ) and Cody Willis. When the others vote Sassy out due to her terrible singing voice, Stonie threatens to quit. When the Debutante Ball arrives to celebrate the centenary of Erinsborough, Stonie attends with Sassy as his date. The evening goes well but descend into chaos when a catfight between Sassy and Cody starts and Stonie
875-441: A bid to increase ratings, producers plotted a Romeo and Juliet -style romance between Malcolm and Danni Stark ( Eliza Szonert ). Jason Herbison of Inside Soap said "Love blooms soon after Danni Stark sets eyes on Malcolm, but their road to love is a rocky one, dogged by family feuds and a dark secret! But will love conquer all?" Malcolm was initially shown to be attracted to Bianca Zanotti (Annie Gagliardi), but when he makes
1050-450: A big deal" because he got on well with Szonert. The kissing scenes also gave McNair confidence in his acting ability. He explained, "You have to feel what your character is feeling, but it was great because I was also able to separate the screen situation from myself." Malcolm and Danni become inseparable, and although their parents disapprove, they rent Number 32, so they can have some privacy. The relationship continues to develop quickly, and
1225-489: A bit of a business tycoon. He's now married - though his wife Catherine is in England - and he works for a coffee shop chain called Cuppa Diem. He comes back to Erinsborough to open up a franchise, and he thinks that Harold's coffee shop is the perfect venue to launch it." Malcolm does not reveal his intentions for the coffee shop right away and just states that he is home for a visit. McNair told Inside Soap's Herbison that Malcolm
1400-613: A brief return in 2003 for his brother Toadie's wedding to Dee Bliss ( Madeleine West ). After Toadie accidentally drove the wedding car off a cliff and into the sea, Stonie helped to save his brother. In August 2007, Stonefish returned to Neighbours to "cause some trouble for little brother Toadie". Stonie came to stay with Toadie following marital problems. He was also battling a drug problem and when Toadie learned of this, he threw Stonie out. But Toadie's girlfriend Stephanie Scully ( Carla Bonner ) took pity on Stonie and allowed him to move back in. Engleman did not hesitate to return to
1575-537: A car and the former owners arrive looking for some drugs they left in there. The police decide to stage a stakeout, which results in a shootout that leaves Cody Willis ( Peta Brady ) dead. Malcolm briefly dates Debbie Martin ( Marnie Reece-Wilmore ) and decides to leave university to work as a handyman for Sam Kratz (Grieve). When Sam leaves Erinsborough, Malcolm is left in charge of the business and he eventually buys it with Darren Stark. Malcolm dates Year 12 student, Shona Munro (Bryony Price) when he begins working at
1750-401: A couple of months, the show moved to 3:50 pm weekdays. The show eventually moved back to TV2, screening weeknights at 6:00 pm and, later, 6:30 pm before moving back to 6:00 pm. Its timeslot in 2022 was at 4:30 pm on TVNZ 1 . The finale aired, in its 90-minute iteration as Neighbours: The Final Farewell , in a primetime slot on TVNZ 1, on 2 September 2022. New episodes
1925-541: A drop of 300,000 from the BBC's average. However, the move boosted Channel 5's usual share for the 5.30 pm slot by three and a half times. UK viewers are able to catch up with episodes with Channel 5's video catch up service, My5 , similar to the catch up service in Australia. Channel 5 also had a deal with YouTube , allowing viewers to watch episodes for free on the video sharing site after they have been transmitted. From 4 January 2016, Channel 5 began broadcasting episodes on
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#17331461098682100-482: A dying man Susan befriended. Malcolm catches up with both Lou and Toadfish Rebecchi and notices Andrew Robinson ( Jordan Smith ) renting his house out to backpackers. Malcolm tells Karl not to make anything more out of Susan's friendship with Jim and to support her or he will end up driving her away. Malcolm tells Toadie about Andrew's scheme and then warns Summer Hoyland ( Jordy Lucas ) to end it, before she gets his parents into trouble. Malcolm accompanies his mother to
2275-420: A few changes and lots of new faces, Mum ( Jackie Woodburne ) and Dad ( Alan Fletcher ) are still the same, so it really is like coming home." During an interview with Digital Spy , McNair explained that Malcolm returns to Ramsay Street to see his parents after sensing that there is a problem between them. He has also been speaking to Libby and Billy and they agree that there is trouble brewing. McNair said "Malcolm
2450-436: A flashback, Malcolm discovers that his half-sister, Holly Hoyland ( Lucinda Armstrong Hall ), is secretly in town and he agrees to keep it from Karl and Susan. The BBC said Malcolm's most notable moment was "having an accident at Chez Chez where Karl had to save his life." In 1996, the BBC censored the programme, when it edited out scenes involving Karl agonising over Malcolm's sexual activity with Danni. The broadcaster felt
2625-556: A focus on three households created by Watson – including the Ramsay and Robinson families, who have a long history and an ongoing rivalry. Over the serial's early years, three additional houses on the street were introduced as regular settings. Pin Oak Court, in Vermont South , is the real cul-de-sac that has doubled for Ramsay Street. The houses featured are real and the residents allow
2800-454: A lot doing Neighbours and coming back for a stint is perfect. Let's just say he's not the Mal he used to be." Malcolm's friends and family are pleased to see him again, but they soon come to realise that he is a changed man. Malcolm is no longer easygoing, instead he has become a ruthless entrepreneur and has his eyes on Harold Bishop 's ( Ian Smith ) coffee shop. McNair explained "Mal has turned into
2975-562: A lot in common with his character, as he had a tough time at school too and did not have much luck with girls. When asked if Stonefish would ever get a girlfriend or roam around Ramsay Street in his stonewash denim forever, Engelman replied "Life gets much better for Stonefish. There might even be romance on the horizon, but I'm afraid he'll always be a dag." Stonefish later stole some exam papers from Erinsborough High and he sold them to Rick Alessi ( Dan Falzon ), who wanted to help Cody when she fell behind with her revision. When Rick gave Cody
3150-464: A lunchtime broadcast and then a morning broadcast repeat the following day. Michael Grade , the channel's then controller, was advised by his daughter to move the morning broadcast repeat to a late afternoon slot, as she and her friends kept missing it due to them being at school, which took place from 4 January 1988. The show then started attracting larger audiences, peaking at over 21 million viewers on 26 January 1990, an aggregated figure that combined
3325-399: A mishap where Charlie Hoyland accidentally discovers the marijuana, Stonie then comes clean to Toadie and Charlie's mother, Steph and explains he is depressed because he and Chantelle were trying for a baby and they are not having much luck. Chantelle comes to Ramsay Street to sort her husband out. Stonie announces he is giving up marijuana. However, just as he is about to throw the rest in
3500-431: A new current affairs show. They said "It's part of a re-branding of Ten's free-to-air channel, targeting the older demographic. The 'younger' shows, like Neighbours , will go on to one of Ten's digital channels". It was later confirmed that the show would be moving to digital channel, Eleven. Network Ten's programmer, David Mott said "We believe Neighbours is perfectly suited to Eleven's audience strategy and will find
3675-414: A new UK broadcaster. Dennis said of the cancellation, "Simply put, it is all about the quickly changing landscape in the way we view our favourite TV shows. Drama on free-to-air television is dying a rapid death because nowadays viewers are used to being able to watch what they want when they want. Ultimately, Neighbours is a product in the big business of film and television and like any other business, if
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#17331461098683850-905: A novel she was writing. Malcolm and Danni begin to get to know each other and Malcolm finds himself attracted to her. Malcolm kisses Danni and they begin dating. Susan forces Malcolm to get a job at the Coffee Shop. Danni puts pressure on Malcolm to have sex with her and Malcolm reveals that he is a virgin. They then wait until he is ready. Danni and Malcolm break up, after he becomes jealous of her new friends and she looks at his paper during an exam. Malcolm's best friend, Stonefish Rebecchi (Anthony Engleman), gets him and Danni back together. The couple decide to live together and move into Number 32. Stonefish and his mother briefly move in with Malcolm and Danni. One night, Malcolm and Danni have unprotected sex and after realising how easily Danni could have got pregnant, they decide to go back to their own homes. Malcolm gets
4025-401: A one-and-half-hour-long episode. It was broadcast on 29 July 2022 in the UK as a one-hour-long episode. A study conducted shortly after the final episode aired in Australia and the UK found that fans experienced considerable feelings of grief and loss at the conclusion of the series, with viewers having formed strong connections and bonds with their favorite characters. On 17 November 2022, it
4200-431: A part-time job at a local surf shop and, after passing his HSC, enrolls at Eden Hills University to study Human Movement. Danni fails her exams and the couple drift apart. Malcolm and Stonefish's friendship is jeopardised by Catherine O'Brien. Stonefish likes her, but she fancies Malcolm. When Stonefish finds out, he confronts Malcolm, who tells him that nothing has happened between him and Catherine. Malcolm and Stonefish buy
4375-434: A passionate full-on affair with Jade. She's one of the hottest babes on the street and Mal couldn't resist her. He doesn't take too kindly to Karl's lecture given his track record but he agrees to end it." Malcolm is left "a little rattled" by Jade's reaction to the end of their affair, as she does not appear to be fussed at all. On 11 March 2014, it was announced that McNair would be returning to Neighbours to help celebrate
4550-591: A photo of a woman he believes to be Dee. On 17 January 2018, it was announced that Engelman had reprised the role again, along with several other returning cast members, for a feature-length special episode, which aired on 12 February 2018. The episode centres on a belated 21st birthday party for Toadie. Stonefish mistakenly believes his girlfriend, Sassy, has been seeing Brett Stark. Stonefish punches Brett and then continues to hassle him. Brett's friend, Michael Martin ( Troy Beckwith ) later punches Stonie after he continues to hassle Brett. Stonie later mellows and joins
4725-407: A product isn't making money, it will make way for one that will. All TV shows come to an end – even the likes of long-time legends such as Coronation Street and Days of Our Lives will eventually cease. Survival of these shows is in the viewers' hands." Cast member Georgie Stone revealed that she discovered the cancellation on Twitter and was initially unsure whether to believe it, until she
4900-512: A residential cul-de-sac in the fictional Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough . The street was named after the grandfather of original character Max Ramsay ( Francis Bell ). Other locations include Erinsborough High School, the garage (local mechanic), hospital , and the Lassiter's complex, which contains the Lassiter's Hotel , Waterhole bar, Harold's Café , the lawyers office Rebecchi Law , and
5075-671: A resort in Queensland. Filming locations outside of Australia have included Kenya , the United States and the United Kingdom, which has seen Neighbours episodes filmed there on a number of occasions. In February 1990, Lyme Park in Cheshire doubled as the Ledgerwood estate set in Yorkshire. Derek Nimmo guest-starred as the fictitious Lord Ledgerwood in two of the episodes. In November 1992,
5250-863: A ride on the London Eye and being married on a boat on the River Thames . Three further storylines shot on location in London aired in March 2017, March 2018, and September 2019. The show was due to film in Ireland for the first time in March 2020, before the shoot was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The following year, a sixth storyline was filmed on location in London, featuring Amanda Holden and Sophie Ellis-Bextor alongside regular cast member Jemma Donovan ( Harlow Robinson ). In early 2023, Annie Jones ( Jane Harris ) and Guy Pearce ( Mike Young ) filmed scenes in
5425-736: A romantic advance, she slaps him and he turns to Danni for comfort. As she reassures him, Malcolm realises that Danni is the one he should be dating. Malcolm soon finds himself "out of his depth" with his more sexually experienced girlfriend. McNair told Goatly that his character is a virgin and does not feel able to tell Danni, so he comes across as standoffish. Once Malcolm tells Danni the truth, she seduces him. McNair said, "After they've had sex he feels great and from then on it develops into an upfront, mature sexual relationship." McNair admitted to being nervous when it came to kissing Szonert, as it marked his first on-screen kiss. He asked Szonert and co-star Richard Grieve for advice, and found it "wasn't such
Malcolm Kennedy - Misplaced Pages Continue
5600-402: A successful and enduring home on Eleven". Neighbours moved to Eleven on 11 January 2011, the channel's launch day. Throughout 2013, Eleven had broadcast repeat episodes of Neighbours from the 2007 period, titled Old School Neighbours , during weekday mornings. In 2015, Network Ten had broadcast an encore of the previous day's episode at 7:00 am weekdays. In 2018, for the first time in
5775-486: A surprise visit to see his parents. They attend Toadie's engagement party together, where Malcolm reveals to his parents that he and Catherine have separated. He explains that he was keen to move back to Australia, but Catherine was not interested. This led to numerous issues between them, which made them both miserable. When Malcolm returns to his hotel room, Izzy is waiting for him and he tells her that he did not get to tell his parents about her yet. The following day, Malcolm
5950-438: A ticket on the same flight as him to Europe. After travelling for a while, the couple settle in England and get married. Malcolm also begins working for Cuppa Diem. Malcolm returns to Erinsborough five years later, to meet his new nephew, Ben (Noah Sutherland) and to find a suitable location for Cuppa Diem's first Australian branch. Malcolm tries to get Harold Bishop to sell the Coffee Shop, but Harold declines. Malcolm then asks
6125-421: A vegetarian and getting involved in environmental issues. This is cut short when Catherine returns to Tasmania to look after her mother Bess (Diana McLean). When Stonie and Malcolm buy a car together, they are horrified to learn its previous owners were drug dealers and the stash is still inside. The drug squad arrive and arrange a stakeout. During a scuffle between the police and the dealers, who return to recover
6300-419: A woman named Chantelle ( Claire Chitham ), but he mentions they are now separated. It becomes apparent that he is smoking marijuana. Whilst smoking, he throws the butt over the fence to Number 30 and Frazer Yeats ( Ben Lawson ) discovers it and immediately assumes Toadie is the one smoking it. After another butt is thrown over the fence before Frazer's eyes, he looks over the fence and spots Stonie alone. After
6475-550: A year later he reprised his role for the show's 20th anniversary. In July 2011, Malcolm returns to help his parents with their marriage and has a brief affair with Jade Mitchell ( Gemma Pranita ). McNair returned to Neighbours in October 2014 for the 20th anniversary of the Kennedys' introduction. He also reprised his role in July 2022 for the show's final episodes and again in 2023. In 1994,
6650-677: Is a difficult relationship as Cody is at University and Stonie is still in high school on his third attempt at Year 12. Stonie later lodges with Danni and her boyfriend, Malcolm Kennedy ( Benjamin McNair ) when they move out of home and are soon joined by Stonie's mother Angie and brother Toadfish. Number 32 soon becomes home to the Rebecchi family after Mal and Danni move back home. As Stonie begins studying for his HSC, he calls on Annalise Hartman ( Kimberly Davies ) to tutor him in English and Maths. Stonie kisses Annalise one day, but she rebuffs him as she
6825-641: Is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours , played by Anthony Engelman. He made his first appearance on 31 March 1994. Stonefish was the first of the Rebecchi family to appear and he was later followed by his mother, father and brothers. The character left in 1996, but returned briefly in 2003. In 2007, Engelman reprised his character again and Stonefish returned to Ramsay Street. He departed on 28 August 2007. The character then returned for brief guest stints from 2015 until 2018. In 1994, TV Week revealed Neighbours would be introducing "a younger, livelier look with six regular characters under
7000-407: Is a wonderful show and because of this I felt it was important that fresh eyes and brains take over to keep this Australian icon contemporary. Having said that, I'm really excited about the new role and thank FremantleMedia for this wonderful opportunity." Former City Homicide producer, Richard Jasek , took over Bower's role, while Alan Hardy took over the role of producer. On 4 December 2013, it
7175-701: Is about to explain to Karl and Susan that he and Izzy are together when Izzy enters the house. Malcolm then says that they are together and in love. Karl and Susan yell at Malcolm for keeping it a secret and say that their relationship probably has an agenda. When Malcolm asks Susan and Karl to accept his relationship once more, Susan tells him that he must pick between her and Izzy. Malcolm picks Izzy. However, Izzy later reveals to him that she kissed Shane Ramsay ( Peter O'Brien ), so they break up. Malcolm later attends Toadie's wedding and watches his siblings give Toadie congratulatory messages by video, then attends their reception on Ramsay Street. The following day, as revealed in
Malcolm Kennedy - Misplaced Pages Continue
7350-552: Is angry and blames Susan, but Karl confesses it was his idea. Malcolm begins flirting with Jade Mitchell and he begins an affair with her. Karl tells Malcolm he knows about his affair with Jade, as he saw them kissing. Karl urges Malcolm to end his relationship with Jade and he does. Susan later learns of Malcolm's affair and she is disappointed with him. Malcolm books his flight home and tells Susan he will tell Catherine what happened. Jade tells Malcolm that her sister, Sonya ( Eve Morey ), and Kyle Canning know about their affair and she
7525-447: Is caught in a scrap with Cody's date, Rick Alessi. Stonie later moves into Ramsay street with his family. At the start of 1995, He finds himself an unwitting Guinea Pig in an experiment conducted by Brett and the newly arrived Libby Kennedy ( Kym Valentine ), who want to see if they can get the most unlikely candidate elected as school captain. Brett agrees to be Stonie's campaign manager. It all seems to be going well until Danni reveals
7700-693: Is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video on 18 September 2023. In Canada, CFMT-TV in Toronto broadcast Neighbours on weeknights at 11:00 pm, starting in September 1990. From 20 May 1991, CFMT moved the show to 4:00 pm. After announcing its cancellation, CFMT decided to keep Neighbours on its schedule throughout September 1994, following numerous letters and telephone calls. From April 2017 to April 2019, Neighbours aired on OutTV . Episodes were broadcast on weekdays at 2:30 pm ET and 5:30 pm ET, with an omnibus on Saturdays. Episodes aired on
7875-594: Is great because I don't want to become complacent." Stonefish became the first member of the Rebecchi family to be introduced. He was later joined by his mother, father, brother and cousin. A writer for Inside Soap said Stonefish was happiest causing a stir in the classroom, and that wherever there was trouble, you could bet he was involved. Stonefish arrived in Ramsay Street after believing Brett Stark ( Brett Blewitt ) had started dating his girlfriend Sassy Patterson-Smythe (Defah Dattner). Engelman said Stonefish
8050-472: Is in a relationship with Sam Kratz . After months of sexual tension, Annalise and Stonefish sleep together only for Angie to come home and discover the affair. Annalise confesses all to Sam, who later punches Stonie when he sees him in Annalise's hotel room. Upon starting University, Stonie falls for Catherine O'Brien ( Radha Mitchell ) and is willing to go to any lengths to impress her, including pretending to be
8225-559: Is later seen in Annalise Hartman 's ( Kimberley Davies ) Ramsay Street documentary. After seven more years away, Malcolm decides to surprise his parents with a visit and notices things are not okay when he catches them arguing. He reveals that he has spoken to Billy and Libby, but Susan reassures him that everything is fine. Malcolm decides to go and see Stonefish in Colac. When he returns he tries to ask Karl about Jim Dolan (Scott Parmeter),
8400-429: Is leaving. Malcolm tries to talk her out of it and he tells Sonya about Jade's plan. Malcolm sees Jade leaving in a taxi and goes to tell Kyle. Kyle punches Malcolm and Rhys Lawson ( Ben Barber ) takes him to the hospital to fix his nose. Karl and Susan thank Malcolm for visiting and they drive him to the airport. While he is on a business trip three years later, Malcolm visits his parents and informs them that Catherine
8575-412: Is no chance of a relationship. Jade needs some fun and she reckons Malcolm is the person to help her. However, the pair's innocent flirting turns into something more serious when Jade arranges a "late-night rendezvous" with Malcolm. Due to his father's history of infidelity, TV Week said Malcolm proves to be "a chip off the old block" when he kisses Jade. Of Jade's relationship with Malcolm, Pranita told
8750-406: Is no sign of Dee who is presumed drowned. When Toadie returns to spot where the accident happens and begins wading into the sea, Stonie manages to stop his brother from committing suicide. Realising there is they can do little to help Toadie out of his grief, Stonie, Kev and Angie return home. Four years later, Stonie returns to Ramsay Street to stay with Toadie. Stonie reveals he is now married to
8925-426: Is now airs from 19 September 2023 at 5.30pm Tuesdays to Fridays on TVNZ 2. Episodes is to be then available to stream on Amazon Prime Video . In Iceland, Neighbours has been aired on Stöð 2 since 1986 with Icelandic subtitles. The show is currently on weeknights at 5.25 pm. In Belgium, Neighbours has aired since 1988 as Buren , with Dutch subtitles on Één (previously known as TV1, in 2024 known as VRT1),
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#17331461098689100-427: Is now in a relationship with his father's former girlfriend Izzy Hoyland ( Natalie Bassingthwaighte ), who is hiding out at his hotel. In order to let his parents process the news about his marriage, Malcolm puts off telling them about Izzy, until she shows up on their doorstep and makes hints about their connection, leaving "a sheepish Mal" to explain that he and Izzy have fallen in love with each other. McNair reprised
9275-404: Is now streaming on Amazon Freevee from 18 September 2023 in the United Kingdom. In Ireland, RTÉ began broadcasting Neighbours on 2 January 2001. The show aired weekdays at 2:00 pm on RTÉ One and was repeated at 6:00 pm on RTÉ Two . Episodes were also available via catch-up on RTÉ Player . Prior to the move from BBC One to Channel 5 in the UK, RTÉ broadcast Neighbours at the same pace as
9450-550: Is pregnant and they're a bit overwhelmed! They're hoping that mum and dad can help them out." Malcolm's suggestion leads Karl and Susan to reflect on their 20-year history in Erinsborough. McNair was one of over twenty actors who reprised their roles for the serial's final episodes, following its cancellation in early 2022. His return will air on 14 July in the UK and 21 July in Australia, as Malcolm visits his parents to tell them he and Catherine have broken up. Unbeknownst to them, he
9625-683: Is pregnant. He then asks them to relocate to London to help him and Catherine out with the baby. However, after thinking it over, Susan and Karl decide to stay in Erinsborough. Toadie and Sonya let Malcolm look after their young daughter, Nell (Scarlett Anderson), but Malcolm struggles and he breaks their digital detox by letting Nell play with his phone. Toadie and Sonya ask Malcolm to leave, but they later apologise and let him look after Nell again, with better results. After saying goodbye to his parents, Malcolm returns home to London. Six months later, Malcolm informs Susan that Catherine has given birth to their daughter Susannah. Eight years later, Malcolm makes
9800-475: Is rude. Malcolm discovers that Karl moved the family because he caused a patient's death and he is furious. Malcolm accidentally shoots Lou Carpenter ( Tom Oliver ) in the leg and he falls for Bianca Zanotti. After inviting Bianca over to his house, he tries to kiss her and she punches him. Malcolm tells his friends that he was mugged, but Bianca reveals the truth and Karl is disgusted at Malcolm's behaviour. Malcolm embarrasses Libby at school by reading out parts of
9975-462: Is something different. McNair revealed that he thinks Malcolm does have what it takes to get things back on track for his parents as he has a lot of compassion and maturity to deal with both sides of the story. When asked if Malcolm has changed since his last appearance, McNair revealed that he is very similar and still assertive in a business sense. Malcolm is now working with a large company as an area manager and he has an air of confidence about him. He
10150-403: Is soon tested by a pregnancy scare after Malcolm and Danni forget to use contraception while they spend the night at a hotel. McNair reckoned the couple were too young to be parents. The pair later live with Malcolm's best friend Stonefish Rebecchi (Anthony Engleman) after they struggle with the rent, and his mother also comes to stay. Malcolm and Danni later move back to their old homes. During
10325-499: Is successful and travels throughout Europe. Malcolm and his wife, Catherine, have become a professional couple and have decided not to have children. In October 2011, Malcolm befriends Jade Mitchell ( Gemma Pranita ) and they begin flirting. Jade uses Malcolm to distract her from her feelings for Kyle Canning ( Chris Milligan ) and Susan Hill from the Daily Star said the fact Malcolm is married appeals to Jade because she knows there
10500-497: Is the real cul-de-sac that doubles for Ramsay Street. All of the houses featured in the show are real and the residents allow Neighbours to shoot external scenes in their front and back yards and on occasions, in their garages. Neighbours has been filmed in Pin Oak Court since the series began in 1985 and it has since become popular with tourists. Tours to the cul-de-sac run throughout the year. The interior scenes are filmed at
10675-410: Is trying to get to the bottom of it without appearing too nosy. He cares about his parents deeply and wants them to live a life of harmony, so if he can help, he'll certainly try." The actor said Malcolm is not surprised that his parents are facing marital problems, but it may be a surprise as to where the troubles are coming from. Previous problems have come from Karl and his infidelity issues, but this
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#173314610986810850-414: Is very happy to see everyone again and he has brought them all presents. Malcolm is also really happy to see Toadfish Rebecchi ( Ryan Moloney ) because they used to be good friends. Toadie Rebecchi ( Ryan Moloney ) is the first to notice that Malcolm's ego "has grown to the size of Anson's Corner " and his reasons for returning are not all personal. Toadie later overhears Malcolm talking to Harold about
11025-570: The Great Barrier Reef region. Two storylines were filmed in Geelong and the Gold Coast in 2016. In March 2019, Neighbours filmed scenes at the 2019 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras for an episode airing in 2020. The serial also had its own float during the parade. Later that year, scenes for Paul Robinson ( Stefan Dennis ) and Terese Willis ' ( Rebekah Elmaloglou ) wedding were filmed at
11200-571: The Morrison government to step in and help. After the decision to cut the show's funding by British broadcaster Channel 5, an online campaign was launched trying to get Barry Crocker 's version of the Neighbours theme song to number one in the UK charts. This success had the tune at number one on the iTunes chart for almost 24 hours. An article in the Sydney Morning Herald noted that following
11375-482: The Neighbours ' storyliners decided to introduce the "solid" Kennedy family as they felt that they needed to take the show back to its roots when it seemed that all the houses on Ramsay Street were populated with misfits and distant relatives. McNair joined the cast as eldest sibling Malcolm, brother to Libby ( Kym Valentine ) and Billy ( Jesse Spencer ). Upon winning the role of Malcolm, McNair relocated from Sydney to Melbourne for filming. McNair admitted that while he
11550-556: The Republic of Ireland on 3 August 2022. To mark the ending of the show, RTÉ had made several classic episodes available to viewers in Ireland on the RTÉ Player. Neighbours returned to RTÉ and debuted on Amazon Prime Video on 18 September 2023. In New Zealand, Neighbours was broadcast primarily on the TVNZ network. The show was initially broadcast by TVNZ on 25 July 1988, but by 1996 it
11725-531: The TV Tonight website reported Neighbours was to reduce crew operations in 2011 so production could be upgraded. The changes meant that the location manager and catering team were no longer required, studio shoots would be reduced from three cameras to two, and location shooting would be restricted. Of the changes, FremantleMedia said " Neighbours is undergoing a work flow upgrade to accommodate advances in technology and production techniques to ensure we are at
11900-451: The merger of Viacom and CBS , Channel 5 in the UK and Channel 10 in Australia became owned by the same corporate umbrella. Despite the soap being the 4th most popular in the UK (behind the country's traditional top 3 soaps), the funding arrangements meant that one part of ViacomCBS was cross-subsidising another. On 3 March 2022, it was confirmed that the show would end after 37 years on air, after production company Fremantle could not obtain
12075-713: The 1996 end-of-season cliffhanger, Malcolm's windpipe is crushed during an accident at Chez Chez, where he is doing some repair work with Darren Stark ( Todd MacDonald ). Malcolm trips over a dustsheet and causes a plank holding paint and tools to fall on his neck. Darren and Karl pull the plank off Malcolm's neck and find Malcolm cannot breathe. Karl realises the only way to save Malcolm is to perform an emergency tracheotomy . However, Karl has not practiced medicine since Cheryl Stark 's ( Caroline Gillmer ) death, which he believes he caused. Jason Herbison of Inside Soap said "Karl freezes, and unless he gets his nerve back, he could have more blood on his conscience." Karl manages to perform
12250-515: The 2000s, rival soap opera Home and Away emerged as more popular than Neighbours in Australia. As of 2004, Neighbours was regularly attracting just under a million viewers per episode. In 2007, Home and Away was averaging 1.4 million viewers in Australia to Neighbours ' 700,000. During the revamp of 2007, the episode broadcast on 23 July 2007 saw the introduction of a new family, updated sets, new theme music and graphics. Ratings for that episode averaged 1.05 million viewers in
12425-430: The 20th anniversary of the Kennedys' introduction. Malcolm returned on 2 October 2014. He visits his parents to suggest that they take an early retirement and move to England to be with him and Catherine, who is pregnant. Woodburne explained, "they want Karl and Susan to help them out with the baby they're going to have. Mal and Catherine didn't think they were ever going to have any children, but surprise surprise, Catherine
12600-455: The 6:30 pm. slot. It was the first time the programme's viewing figures had topped 1 million in 2007. By the end of 2007 it was reported that producers had hoped the Neighbours revamp would push the ratings up to between 900,000 to 1 million an episode. It had, however, resulted in a more modest boost, with ratings hovering at about 800,000 a night. The same viewing period had shown an increase in ratings for Home and Away , which
12775-406: The Australian broadcast. All episodes of Neighbours were later removed from Hulu. From 18 September 2023, new episodes along with archive episodes, is now streaming on Amazon Freevee . Neighbours initially aired on Seven Network. It struggled to attract high ratings, leading to its cancellation by the network four months after it premiered. The series was then picked up by Network Ten. After
12950-503: The BBC. From the move to Channel 5, RTÉ sat one episode behind the UK broadcast. In 2007, RTÉ secured a long-term deal with FremantleMedia to continue broadcasting the show in Ireland after it moved from the BBC to Channel 5. While RTÉ had only broadcast Neighbours since 2001, it had already been popular with Irish viewers since it debuted on BBC One in October 1986. The finale was broadcast in Northern Ireland on 29 July 2022 and
13125-459: The Christmas and New Year period. From 2018 until 2020, the show aired all year round, although a three-week Christmas break occurred in 2021–2022. All aired episodes shown during the week are available to watch on Network 10's 10Play app, as part of their catch up TV service. 10 Peach also broadcast the last four aired episodes shown in an omnibus edition each Sunday. When the show began in 1985,
13300-497: The Coffee Shop. In 2011, Yahoo! said that viewers should be excited that Malcolm was returning because everyone loves him. They added "you can tell from the fact that the cast always want him back that he has real chemistry with everyone on set." Cameron Adams of the Herald Sun compared Malcolm to his father when he began his affair with Jade, noting "while Karl has been a pantsman in the past, it seems his DNA has been passed on, with
13475-528: The Global Television studios in Forest Hill , the adjoining suburb in which Pin Oak Court is located. Under the contract for filming to take place on the street, the residents of Pin Oak Court require permission to alter the exterior of their properties; between the series' cancellation and revival in 2022 and 2023, some residents took the opportunity to make renovations without hindrance. Through much of
13650-609: The Seven Network. Repeat episodes of Neighbours episodes from the 1988–1991 period were broadcast between 2000 and 30 June 2003 on Network Ten. These episodes were seen at 3:30 pm, before moving to 11:30 am. During 2008, Ten HD broadcast the previous week's episodes in an omnibus edition each Sunday. These omnibus editions did not return in 2009, as Ten HD was replaced by One HD from March 2009. In August 2010, Sydney's Daily Telegraph reported that Neighbours would be moving to Ten's new digital channel, to make way for
13825-589: The UK after Channel 5 pulled its funding for budget reasons. In an official statement, a channel spokesperson said " Neighbours will no longer air on Channel 5 beyond this summer. It's been a much-loved part of our schedule for more than a decade, and we'd like to thank the cast, Fremantle and all of the production team for their fantastic work on this iconic series." Neighbours concluded on Channel 5 in July 2022. The channel's spokesperson confirmed that 5 wants to increase its investment in original UK dramas. New episodes of Neighbours , along with archive episodes,
14000-482: The UK broadcast, which had fallen behind due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The move caused some viewers to speculate that the soap was on the verge of being cancelled, but April Rose Pengilly (who plays Chloe Brennan ) confirmed that the rumours were not true. On 23 November 2021, a spokesperson from Channel 5 confirmed that Neighbours episodes would continue airing five times a week in 2022, while 10 Peach would be keeping
14175-402: The UK broadcaster as it was no longer commercially viable for Ten to fund it alone. In 2018, after a new deal was secured with Channel 5, the show became the first Australian drama to air all year round. In February 2022, Channel 5 announced that it would be dropping Neighbours from its schedule; the cancellation of the show was confirmed the following month. The show's finale was broadcast as
14350-581: The UK episode airing on the same day as the wedding. The episode, which had already aired in Australia, marked the first time an Australian show recorded extra scenes for a UK broadcaster. On 25 October 2011, it was announced Bower would leave Neighbours in December 2011 to move into a new international role with FremantleMedia. Of her departure, Bower told Colin Vickery of the Herald Sun , "I love Neighbours , it
14525-400: The UK for the show's most recent overseas storyline, which aired in the first few weeks of the show's revival. Neighbours currently airs from Monday to Thursday weekly at 4:00pm on Network 10 and is replayed at 6:30pm on 10 Peach . Until 2018, Neighbours was broadcast from early January to early December for approximately 48–49 weeks each year, going off-air for four to five weeks during
14700-483: The UK launched a search to find a female actress to play the part of Poppy Rogers . The search was similar to the Dolly magazine competition in Australia. August saw Neighbours air its 6,000th episode. Digital Spy revealed that the week-long 6,000th episode celebrations would see the wedding of regular characters, Donna Freedman ( Margot Robbie ) and Ringo Brown ( Sam Clark ). It was later announced that an attempt on
14875-467: The age of 18." Shortly after, the character of Stonefish was created and introduced to the show. Anthony Engelman was cast in the role. He had previously appeared in the serial as a bully a few years prior to re-joining as Stonefish. He told a writer for Inside Soap that his first script said that the character got his nickname because he looked like a stonefish . The actor quipped "They'd written that before they'd even cast me! When I got my script I
15050-581: The air in the world. In 2005, Neighbours celebrated its 20th anniversary and over twenty former cast members returned for a special episode , which saw the characters sitting down to watch a documentary about Ramsay Street and its residents. At the Logie Award ceremony that year, the show was inducted into the Logie Hall of Fame . In 2007, the show underwent a revamp, which included a switch to recording in HDTV ,
15225-569: The airport. Catherine then booked a ticket on the same plane and offered to come with him. Malcolm found it "tough" to forgive Catherine, as he was hurt by her betrayal, but he eventually agreed to her offer and they reunited as they left the country. In February 2002, Tim Randall of the Daily Record reported McNair had reprised his role for six weeks. The actor stated "It's been five years since Mal packed his bags and went to England and that's five full years of doing other things for me. But I learnt
15400-413: The anniversary episodes that revolved around an Erinsborough Festival. Network Ten and Channel 5 aired a documentary special titled Neighbours 30th: The Stars Reunite , which featured interviews with current and former cast members, including Kylie Minogue , Jason Donovan and Guy Pearce , reflecting on their time on the show. Natalie Lynch succeeded Wilson as producer in early 2016. In 2017, there
15575-501: The bin, he holds onto it. Chantelle gives him an ultimatum: her or the marijuana. Stonie chooses her and throws out the marijuana, and they return to Port Keats. After learning that Toadie has been paralysed in an accident, Stonie returns to Erinsborough to visit him. He organises a day of pizza and wrestling, but Karl Kennedy ( Alan Fletcher ) interrupts to invite them to a seminar at the hospital. Toadie's wife Sonya ( Eve Morey ) then tells Stonie that it would be best if Toadie attends
15750-479: The cast, all of whom were informed of the revival when Herbison visited their houses and told them in-person. Fletcher, Woodburne and Moloney all expressed their pleasure of the revival either during interviews or on social media. Other cast members were not informed prior to the announcement of the show's return. It has been revealed that Neighbours will be produced for at least the next two years, with 200 new episodes being released per year. In February 2023,
15925-557: The change on the week it was due to be implemented. "Audience feedback" was cited as the reason for the reversal. Neighbours has been sold to over 60 countries and is one of Australia's most successful media exports. Neighbours has been very successful in the United Kingdom, and has proved to be more popular there than in Australia. It was broadcast on BBC One for over 21 years from October 1986 until February 2008. The series started airing on 27 October 1986, as part of BBC One's revamped daytime schedules. Neighbours went out with
16100-470: The changes were an attempt to return to the show's original concept. In 1994, Network Ten told TV Week that they would be introducing a "younger, livelier look with six regular characters under the age of 18" in a bid to generate interest. It was then that they introduced the characters of Stonefish Rebecchi , played by Anthony Engelman, and Serendipity Gottlieb , played by Raelee Hill . In 1996, Kimberley Davies , who played Annalise Hartman , quit
16275-456: The channel said "Now our viewers can join in on the good, the bad and the endlessly entertaining lives of our Aussie neighbours." The episodes started from the Scully family's arrival in 1999 and were aired for a six-week trial basis. The show was broadcast in the afternoon with two episodes being shown back to back at 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm. After a couple of weeks, and only 65 episodes aired,
16450-408: The characters Rick Alessi ( Dan Falzon ) and Debbie Martin ( Marnie Reece-Wilmore ) visit London to attend a Michael Jackson concert. However, producers could not film at the concert after negotiations with Jackson's tour management failed. The second London-based storyline was broadcast in late March 2007. Susan Kennedy ( Jackie Woodburne ) and Karl Kennedy ( Alan Fletcher ) are shown taking
16625-444: The coffee shop and Cuppa Diem. He suggests that Harold joins the franchise or he will regret it. Malcolm says it with a smile, but Harold is aware that he is being threatened. Toadie attempts to question Malcolm about what he saw, but they are interrupted by a phone call that reveals his true agenda to his parents. McNair revealed "Mal gets this phone call, and from the tone of his voice, it's clear he's under pressure from London to close
16800-579: The coffee shop deal. It's the first Karl or Susan have heard of it, and they can't believe their son is money-driven. We get the impression that this is an issue that's really going to test the family." McNair added that he had great fun catching up with his on-screen family, as they had always been very close. At the end of his guest stint in May, Doug Anderson of The Sydney Morning Herald wished Malcolm good luck. McNair returned again in 2004 and 2005, where he joined many former cast members reprising their roles for
16975-789: The company and that he had bought Number 32. Two years later, when Karl does not join a Kennedy family holiday in Adelaide, Malcolm comes to Erinsborough to see why. Malcolm suspects Karl is having an affair with Izzy Hoyland and he confronts Izzy, who denies this. He then decides to leave, but Karl pleads with him to stay and he reveals that nothing is going on between him and Izzy, but he and Susan are having marital problems. Malcolm tries to get his parents together to talk, but Karl resists. Malcolm runs over Libby's dog, Audrey , and this brings Karl and Susan together. Malcolm decides to sell Number 32 and he tells Max Hoyland ( Stephen Lovatt ) that it will be put up for auction. Malcolm then returns to London and he
17150-502: The drugs, a gunshot is fired through the window of Number 30 and Cody is shot. A week later, Cody dies in hospital and Stonie is devastated. He then puts on a tribute for her at her memorial service. Catherine returns and Stonie is elated but is soon disappointed when he finds she doesn't want to be with him any more. Stonie decides to go up North with Angie to rejoin his father Big Kev (Don Bridges). Stonie returns to Erinsborough to serve as best man at Toadie's wedding to Dione Bliss. During
17325-464: The emphasis on family relations and suburban reality. Executive producer Ric Pellizzeri said new writers, actors and sets would bring the soap back to its glory days. He added "We moved too far into event-driven stories rather than the character-driven stories that made Neighbours what it is". The relaunch failed to attract more viewers in Australia. Pellizzeri left the series at the end of 2007 and former Neighbours scriptwriter, Susan Bower , became
17500-851: The end it came down to being what it is, a story around neighbours." Reporters from the Herald Sun said that Watson took his idea to the Nine Network in 1982, but it was rejected. Former Nine executive Ian Johnson described the rejection as "one of the biggest 'missed opportunities'" during his time at the network. The show was then offered to the Seven Network , who commissioned the show in September 1984. The serial went into production that November with an $ 8 million budget. The show's initial premise focused on three households, made up of 12 core characters, living in Ramsay Street, dealing with everyday life with humour and drama. The first episode
17675-509: The end of each year, usually averaging around 700,000. On 17 July 2009, during the aftermath of the Parker family's car accident and the dramatic death of Bridget Parker ( Eloise Mignon ), Neighbours achieved higher ratings than Home and Away . Neighbours achieved 998,000 viewers and placed 6th for the night, while Home And Away placed 7th. In January 2010, Neighbours returned to Australian screens to an audience of 563,000. On 20 January,
17850-516: The episode broadcast on 3 October 1994, as he arrives on Ramsay Street with his parents and siblings. An early storyline for Malcolm was a romance with Danni Stark ( Eliza Szonert ), to whom he lost his virginity. Other storylines explored a friendship with Stonefish Rebecchi (Anthony Engleman), a career as a handyman and later, coffee chain salesman, and marriage to Catherine O'Brien ( Radha Mitchell ). The character's departure aired on 11 March 1997. McNair made two brief returns in 2002 and 2004, and
18025-402: The episodes at four, putting the UK ahead of Australia. On 28 July 2022, Neighbours aired the 90-minute Series Finale on Thursday at 7:30 pm on Network 10 and simulcast on 10 Peach . When Neighbours returned on 18 September 2023, episodes airs on Network 10 every Monday to Thursday at 4:00 pm with a second airing on the same day in the former 6:30 pm timeslot on 10 Peach . and repeated
18200-449: The fires and a charity event Sheila is organising. Channel 5 directed its viewers to a dedicated information page on their website at the end of the episode. Neighbours suspended production for two days amid the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, after a crew member came into contact with someone who had the virus. Production shut down early for the scheduled Easter break before resuming after four weeks on 27 April 2020, making Neighbours
18375-428: The first mainstream scripted show to resume production during the pandemic. In order to adhere to government guidelines and social-distancing, Neighbours created separate areas to spread out the cast and crew. They removed intimate scenes between characters and editing allows producers to give the illusion of large crowds and groups. Daily temperature checks for cast and crew will also be carried out. Herbison said that
18550-568: The first season was broadcast on the Seven Network , at 5:30 pm in Sydney, at 6:00 pm in Melbourne and Adelaide and at 7:00 pm in Brisbane . The show's transmission in other areas was varied and many regional channels declined to purchase the series. When the show debuted on Network Ten in 1986 it screened at 7:00 pm. On 9 March 1992 the show moved to 6:30 pm to avoid direct competition from rival soap opera Home and Away on
18725-413: The forefront of professionalism and efficiency." They added that the show's production model had been in place since 1985 and that it was time to evolve it. On 14 March 2011, The Australian reported that Neighbours has become the first television show available to watch on a free iPhone application. Viewers are able to watch whole episodes within three hours of them airing on Eleven. Nick Spooner,
18900-425: The full year for the first time in its history, including over December and January. Herbison stated, "We value our global audiences and are delighted to stay on this journey together. Come the end of 2018 we will also make history by becoming the first Australian drama series to screen all year round." Following the departure of Sonya Rebecchi in 2019, actor Eve Morey stated that the killing off of her character
19075-425: The head of Ten digital media said "This is part of what we call our 'three-screen approach' – broadcast, online and mobile – and it is intended to build viewer engagement with a show and our brand. This is a way for us to stay in touch with our audience and to keep them coming back." To celebrate the wedding of Prince William of Wales and Kate Middleton , Neighbours filmed a specially commissioned scene for
19250-411: The hospital when Jim collapses and he tells her not to forget about Karl. Jim dies and Malcolm comforts Susan. When she leaves for Anglesea to arrange Jim's funeral, Malcolm talks Karl out of following her and he decides to go instead. Malcolm returns alone and he unsuccessfully tries to stop Karl from joining Susan. When Susan returns, she tells Malcolm that she and Karl have decided to separate. Malcolm
19425-409: The idea of making a show that would focus on more realistic stories and portray teens and adults who talk openly to each other and solve their problems together. He also wanted the show to appeal to both Australian and British audiences. Several titles were discussed, including People Like Us , One Way Street , No Through Road and Living Together , before Neighbours was chosen. Watson said "In
19600-419: The introduction of a new family, the departure of several existing characters and a new version of the show's theme song and opening titles. In addition, episode titles were abandoned, having been in use for the previous three years. Daniel Bennett, the new head of drama at Network Ten, announced that the crux of the Ramsay Street story would go "back to basics" and follow a less sensational path than of late with
19775-464: The life of long term regular, Paul Robinson ( Stefan Dennis ) would be the focus of the actual 6,000th episode. Bower said "Last week I saw episode 6,000. This marks Australian television history. The 6,000th episode falls on a Friday so the whole week is a special one. As Stefan Dennis – Paul Robinson – was in the first episode 25 years ago, it was decided that his character play a most important role in this very special event". In late 2010,
19950-474: The low ratings. And Ten needs the show to score the Australian content and drama points required for it to hold on to a broadcasting licence". On 29 October 2010, Neighbours' ratings dropped to a low figure of 386,000 viewers. Viewing numbers for Network Ten that night were down across all programmes. The show's highest figure of the week was 590,000 on 25 October 2010. Stonefish Rebecchi Kevin Rebecchi (commonly known as "Stonefish" or "Stonie" )
20125-424: The lunchtime debut and the teatime repeat. Towards the late 2000s, Neighbours was normally attracting an average of 3 million viewers for its lunchtime showing and 2.6 million viewers for its early-evening repeat. It was frequently the highest-rating daytime program in the UK, outside of news bulletins. In 2008, the UK broadcast moved to rival channel Channel 5 following the BBC's decision not to keep
20300-574: The magazine, "The reason she goes to Malcolm is purely to gain some sort of control back in her life because everything's spiralling out of control due to these feelings she has for Kyle. Her default position is to go back to what she knows - which is to hook up with men who won't want anything serious, like taken men or people who are up for a one-night stand. He's like a safety harness really." Malcolm and Jade begin an affair, but they are forced to end it when Karl finds out about it and warns his son off. A source told Hill "Mal has been risking his marriage for
20475-501: The main TV network of VRT , the Flemish public broadcaster. On 14 June 2021, after more than 30 years on Eén, commercial broadcaster VTM 2 began broadcasting the series. On 1 February 2024, VTM 2 will broadcast episode 8903 of Neighbours , which was the last episode when the program was stopped in the summer of 2022. From 5 February 2024, Neighbours will move to Play 5 and GoPlay will continue
20650-606: The new executive producer. In 2008, Neighbours was branded "too white" by black and Asian viewers in Britain and in Australia there was talk of a " White Australia policy " when it came to casting actors for soaps. In response to the criticism, Bower made a decision to add more ethnically diverse extras, small walk-on roles and speaking parts, as well as introducing the character of Sunny Lee (played by Hany Lee), an exchange student from South Korea. On 18 March 2010, Neighbours celebrated its 25th anniversary. In April, Channel 5 in
20825-465: The next day at 9:30 am on 10 and catch up on the weekly episodes on 10 Peach on Saturday mornings between 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Episodes were then available to stream Amazon Prime Video on a week delay from 10's broadcast from 25 September 2023. Network 10 scheduled a reduction in episodes per week to three between October and December 2024, which would have caused the Australian broadcast to fall behind international releases of new episodes, but reversed
21000-411: The owner of the lease to sell and he makes an offer, which is hard to turn down. Karl is disgusted with Malcolm and Malcolm moves into a hotel. Cuppa Diem remove Malcolm from the Coffee Shop takeover job because it was taking too long to secure the deal. Malcolm realises that he has been cruel to Harold and he apologises and quits Cuppa Diem. Before Malcolm leaves, he tells his parents that he will be suing
21175-399: The pandemic would not be included in storylines. He stated, "We are currently plotting episodes that won't air until much later in the year, so anything we write now might feel very outdated. Further to this, there's a creative question: will our viewers want to switch on Neighbours and relive it again, or is our job to provide escapism? I tend to feel it's the latter." In February 2022, it
21350-502: The papers, she had second thoughts about cheating. Stonefish eventually grew up and became a "reformed bully". He and his family – mother Angie ( Lesley Baker ), father Kevin (Don Bridges), brothers Shane (Greg O'Meara) and Toadfish Rebecchi ( Ryan Moloney ) – moved into Number 32 Ramsay Street. An Inside Soap columnist called the Rebecchi family "dodgy" and said the residents should nail down their valuables and lock up their daughters. The character left in 1996. Stonefish made
21525-448: The police station. Ahead of the 25th anniversary the Erinsborough village set underwent a makeover. The café and bar remained the same, but the centre of the complex was upgraded. Lassiter's Hotel was given a new logo and gained a second floor with outdoor seating area. The hospital and police station received new facades, a used car lot was created near the garage and a new university set was created. Pin Oak Court, in Vermont South ,
21700-458: The power of streaming, we're able to offer a catalogue of thousands of Neighbours episodes for new audiences to discover this legendary series and current fans to relive their favourite moments. We look forward to immersing the audience in new Ramsay Street experiences when we relaunch the show next year for Amazon Freevee and Prime Video customers." Herbison will continue as executive producer, with Dennis, Fletcher, Woodburne and Moloney returning to
21875-506: The procedure and saves Malcolm's life. McNair later called the storyline "awesome" and revealed it was his favourite. McNair departed Neighbours in 1997. Malcolm decided to go travelling, shortly after he discovered his girlfriend Catherine O'Brien ( Radha Mitchell ) was having an affair with Darren. When he discovered the affair, Malcolm punched Darren and then announced his intentions to leave Erinsborough. Catherine tried to get him to change his mind, but Malcolm packed his bags and headed to
22050-458: The production to shoot external scenes in their yards. The interior scenes are filmed at the FremantleMedia studios in Forest Hill . Until 2022, Neighbours was screened in Australia as a 22-minute episode on weeknights, in an early-evening slot. It moved to Ten's digital channel, Eleven (later rebranded 10 Peach ) on 11 January 2011, and was broadcast each weeknight at 6:30 pm. The show
22225-428: The ratings fell to a low of 426,000, making it one of the program's lowest ever ratings in Australia. A July 2010 report showed figures had dropped 20%, from having 1.2 million viewers in 1991 to a low of 618,000 in 2010. A Network Ten spokesperson commented "Most of the show's budget is covered by its UK deal with Channel 5 and the 50-odd other countries it is seen in, so it's not a financial problem for Ten despite
22400-409: The returns of Rebekah Elmaloglou , Jones, Tim Kano and Stone as series regulars were announced; Melissa Bell , April Rose Pengilly and Ian Smith were also announced to returning in guest capacities. Regular production recommenced on 17 April, though scenes featuring Annie Jones and Guy Pearce were filmed in the UK earlier in the year. Neighbours' focus is the fictional Ramsay Street ,
22575-511: The right time – and he proves to be exactly the tonic his brother needs." Lesley Baker (Angie) was pleased to be reunited with Engelman, saying that she wished they could have spent more time together, as he and Moloney are fun to work with. Engelman also said that if he were to return again, he wanted more focus on getting to know his family, as he believed it would be fun getting the whole clan back together. The character returned again on 4 May 2016, and appeared in December, where he shows Toadie
22750-457: The rival network obtaining them. Ten began screening the series with episode 171 on 20 January 1986. In 1986, the series was bought by the BBC as part of their new daytime schedule in the United Kingdom. Neighbours made its debut on BBC1 on 27 October 1986 starting with the pilot episode. It soon gained a loyal audience and the show became particularly popular with younger viewers, and before long
22925-500: The role once again in 2023, following the show's return. His return was incorporated into a week of flashback episodes designed to showcase to viewers stories that occurred whilst Neighbours had ceased broadcasting. Malcolm and his siblings are shocked when their father, Karl, suddenly moves the family to Ramsay Street. Malcolm and Libby are particularly against Karl's decision and do not express any enthusiasm when they arrive. Malcolm instantly clashes with Danni Stark and she believes he
23100-412: The same day as Australia. Channel 5's commissioning editor Greg Barnett explained that closing the transmission gap would reduce spoilers and the number of viewers watching the show illegally online. From mid-2016, the show also began airing every week-night on Nickelodeon as part of their Nick at Nite programming block, broadcasting the same episode that was seen earlier on Channel 5. In March 2017, it
23275-480: The same day as the Australian broadcast and were also available for streaming. From 18 September 2023, new episodes along with archive episodes, is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video . In the United States, Neighbours premiered on KCOP-TV in Los Angeles on 3 June 1991 at 5:30 pm weekdays. KCOP planned to cancel the show by the end of the month due to low ratings, but brought it back due to viewer demand at
23450-412: The scenes were inappropriate for the early evening timeslot. The Daily Mirror said that "things were looking up" for Malcolm when he started dating Shona (Bryony Price) and branded him as "the heartthrob handyman." Caroline Milburn of The Age called Malcolm a " larrikin ." Michael Cregana of Inside Soap called Malcolm "the prodigal son" and said he was a "rotter" when he tried to get his hands on
23625-434: The school. He ends the relationship after realising that they want different things. Malcolm then starts seeing Catherine. She rushes to his hospital bedside after Karl is forced to perform an emergency tracheotomy on him following an accident at Chez Chez. Malcolm is heartbroken when Catherine has an affair with Darren. Malcolm decides to go travelling, but he realises that he and Catherine are meant to be together and she books
23800-420: The seminar and Stonie encourages his brother to go. Toadie later meets up with Stonie and tells him the seminar was a cover for a benefit in his honour. Stonie explains that the community just want to show that they care and they attend the benefit together. Sonya thanks Stonie for getting Toadie back. Stonie announces that he has to return home to Chantelle and says his goodbyes. Months later, Stonefish stops by on
23975-536: The series from episode 8904. Because the broadcasts will continue immediately, there will only be a 5-month delay compared to Australia instead of 1.5 years as was previously the case. In Kenya, Neighbours is broadcast on the KTN network Monday to Friday at 12:30 pm with an omnibus on Sunday mornings. In Barbados, Neighbours is broadcast on the CBC8 channel at 1:00 pm Monday to Friday. In South Africa, Neighbours
24150-439: The series' history, the show's classification became PG , due to the series' increasingly adult subject matter. On 15 July 2021, David Knox of TV Tonight confirmed that from 26 July Neighbours would begin airing four times a week. This marked the first time in the show's history that it had not aired five episodes per week. Knox said the new schedule was likely an attempt at getting the Australian episodes to synchronise with
24325-411: The series. Then Caroline Gillmer fell ill and her character Cheryl Stark was temporarily recast with former Prisoner actress Colette Mann . This made producers nervous that viewing figures might decrease, so they implemented a series of plots to keep viewers interested. These included a cameo from Clive James and an explosion, which destroyed the doctor's surgery in the Lassiter's complex. In
24500-468: The show after being asked to pay £300m over eight years by FremantleMedia (three times the show's usual fee). Both Channel 5 and FremantleMedia were owned at that time by the German RTL Group . The last Neighbours episode to be shown on BBC One aired on 8 February 2008. The first episode to be shown on Channel 5 was watched by 2.4 million viewers on 11 February 2008 (an audience share of 14.2%),
24675-400: The show after watching the Neighbours 30th: The Stars Reunite documentary. A few days later, his agent contacted him to say that Neighbours wanted him back as Stonie for a short stint. Stonie returned to Erinsborough on 9 September. He came to visit Toadie, who had recently suffered a fall that left him paralysed and confined to a wheelchair. Ellis observed, "Stonie's arrival comes just as
24850-504: The show in a star -focused campaign recalling that of the Hollywood star system where stars were packaged to feed into a fan culture. This paid off, and by the end of 1987, ratings had improved for the show. The episode featuring Scott and Charlene's wedding achieved the highest ever ratings for Neighbours , and it became one of the highest rating soap episodes ever in Australia. The same episode attracted 19.6 million viewers when it
25025-466: The show upon learning that Stonie would be going through a "rocky time" in his life. He was pleased to play out such an interesting storyline for his character, saying "In some ways, I felt drama was missing from Stonie's storylines in the past. He was always just chasing girls or trying to get rich quick." In August 2015, it was confirmed that Engelman had reprised his role. The actor told Sarah Ellis of Inside Soap that he had thought about returning to
25200-460: The show was moved to a late-night time slot and it eventually left the air. On 7 July 2014, Todd Spangler from Variety reported that FremantleMedia International had signed a deal with U.S. subscription service Hulu giving it exclusive rights to the most recent season of Neighbours . The soap began airing from 14 July, with new episodes airing daily from Monday through to Friday, on Hulu and Hulu Plus services. The episodes were four weeks behind
25375-482: The show's 20th anniversary episode, " Friends for Twenty Years ". On 9 May 2011, it was announced that McNair would be returning to Neighbours for a four-month guest stint. The actor begin filming his first scenes the following week and Malcolm began appearing from 18 July. Malcolm returns to Ramsay Street to help repair his parents' marriage, after Susan becomes emotionally involved with another man. Of his return, McNair said "It's great to be back. While there have been
25550-485: The show's run, it was not stated in which Australian city Erinsborough was located. The rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne meant that scripts did not mention that Erinsborough was a suburb of the latter city until 1994. Since 2016, the show has begun filming more scenes in and around the city. Other Australian locations mentioned and sometimes seen in the series include the fictitious suburbs of West Waratah , Eden Hills , and Ansons Corner . Real-life Australian towns in
25725-487: The soap on Twitter . Neighbours actor Jackie Woodburne said in an interview with The Project that the cast were "in shock" upon hearing the news, while Alan Fletcher said the soap needs "a hero" to save it and Cowden explained that "the idea of no longer playing Mel is devastating." Numerous current and former cast members, such as Annie Jones , Natalie Bassingthwaighte and Geoff Paine , expressed their sadness online, specifically Rob Mills , who called on
25900-551: The state of Victoria such as Colac , Frankston and Shepparton are sometimes referred to. Oakey in Queensland is also mentioned and sometimes seen. On 27 August 2010, Neighbours filmed scenes in Sydney's Darling Harbour and on board a cruise ship. The episodes marked only the third time that the show has filmed scenes outside of Victoria. In October 2011, Neighbours filmed scenes in Port Douglas , Queensland and around
26075-541: The success of Watson's earlier soap Sons and Daughters . Although successful in Melbourne , Neighbours underperformed in the Sydney market and was cancelled by Seven four months after it began airing. It was immediately commissioned by rival Network Ten for a second production season, which began screening on 20 January 1986. Neighbours became the longest-running drama series in Australian television history. In 2005, it
26250-401: The truth to Stonie who turns his anger on Brett. Instead of hitting Brett, Stonie decides to teach him a lesson by swapping roles with Brett as the candidate and Stonie as the campaign manager. Brett loses out to Keiran Wallace and both boys put school politics behind them. Stonie later falls for Cody, who is still involved with Rick. After Cody ends things with Rick, they become a couple but it
26425-472: The usual break in broadcast over the summer non-ratings period, the series made its debut on Ten in 1986. Ten revamped the show, adding several new, younger cast members including Jason Donovan as Scott Robinson and Kylie Minogue as Charlene Mitchell . When the show began on Ten it initially attracted low ratings, so the Network worked hard to publicise the series. Ten's publicity drive was designed to promote
26600-405: The very-non-single Malcolm showing some player tendencies since he's returned to Ramsay St." The character received a nomination for Best Comeback at the 2012 All About Soap Awards. Neighbours Neighbours is an Australian television soap opera that has aired since 18 March 1985. It was created by television executive Reg Watson . The Seven Network commissioned the show following
26775-404: The visit, Stonie admits that he is jealous of his younger brother for graduating university, becoming a lawyer and preparing to settle down, whereas he has spent the past several years working in their parents Roadhouse. On the day of the wedding, Toadie and Dee's car veers off the road and into the sea. Stonie and Toadie's housemate Stuart Parker ( Blair McDonough ) pull Toadie to safety but there
26950-452: The way back from Newcastle , where he has been looking for someone at Toadie's request. He tells Toadie that he could not find the person at the address he had and urges Toadie to talk to Sonya. After staying for a cup of tea with Sonya, Stonie leaves for Port Keats. After a visit to Colac , Stonie sends Toadie a photograph of a woman he believes to be Toadie's former wife Dee. Toadie asks him to come to Erinsborough and Stonie explains that he
27125-470: Was "unfortunately named". Of the character's 2007 return, a reporter for the Evening Chronicle said "Stonefish was always a rogue when he was originally a Ramsay Street resident and things aren't much better now he's back." The reporter added Stonefish was a bad influence on his younger brother, Toadie. A reporter for Channel 5 branded him a " larrikin ". A reporter from What's on TV criticised
27300-451: Was 17 upon his introduction, four years younger than McNair, who found the age gap made a big difference. He explained to Woman ' s Erica Goatly: "I've been through the teenage years and have sorted myself out, while Mal's still going through it." McNair also thought he was very different to his character. Malcolm is an athlete, who enjoys being in charge. Following his arrival, Malcolm quickly gets involved in Ramsay Street "shenanigans". In
27475-471: Was a measure to reduce production costs for the program as part of its new negotiations. When the cast and crew returned from their annual production break on 13 January 2020, they filmed a scene addressing the Australian bushfires for the episode airing on 15 January. The scene features the characters Sheila Canning ( Colette Mann ), David Tanaka ( Takaya Honda ) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson) discussing
27650-519: Was aired in the United Kingdom - more than the entire population of Australia at the time. By the early 1990s, Australian audiences had decreased, although viewing figures had recovered slightly by the end of the decade. In 1992, due to the decline in ratings, producers began to overhaul the show to win back viewers. They brought in more "fresh-faced teens", moved out older characters and gave some of their parent characters "un-neighborly [ sic ] subplots". Executive producer Ian Bradley said
27825-399: Was announced Fremantle and Amazon Freevee had reached a deal that would allow Neighbours production to restart in 2023. New episodes will be free to stream from the UK and US from the second half of 2023, and Network 10 will retain the rights to broadcast the serial first in Australia. Archive episodes will also be released prior to the relaunch. Lauren Anderson of Amazon Studios said, "With
28000-631: Was announced that Amazon Freevee and Fremantle had agreed to a deal that would restart the series. The series also returned to Network 10 on a permanent basis, after 11 years on 10 Peach. Regular production resumed on 17 April 2023, and the show returned on 18 September 2023. Neighbours was created by Australian TV executive Reg Watson . Watson got the idea for Neighbours during his time working on Crossroads and watching fellow soap Coronation Street in Britain. He had already created successful Australian made soap operas The Young Doctors , Prisoner and Sons and Daughters . Watson proposed
28175-631: Was announced that Channel 5 would be dropping the serial from its schedule later that year, and that production would cease if an alternative British broadcaster was not secured. In response to the threat to the series' future, a fan-run petition on Change.org asking Channel 5 to reconsider its decision was launched, which was signed by over 50,000 people, including cast member Lucinda Cowden . The petition reached 50,000 signatures after one week. This also sparked #saveneighbours to trend on social media. Former star Jason Donovan and Home and Away actor Shane Withington also expressed their support for
28350-428: Was announced that Jasek would be leaving Neighbours and Jason Herbison would replace him, initially with the title of series producer. FremantleMedia's head of drama Jo Porter became executive producer, while Laurence Wilson became the associate producer. The show celebrated its 7,000th episode on 24 October 2014. In March 2015, Neighbours celebrated its 30th anniversary and twelve former cast members returned for
28525-475: Was broadcast on 18 March 1985 and reviews for the show were favourable. However, the Melbourne-produced program underperformed in the Sydney market and Seven announced on 12 July 1985 that it was cancelling the show. Neighbours was immediately bought by Seven's rival Network Ten . The new network had to build replica sets when it took over production after Seven destroyed the original sets to prevent
28700-490: Was contacted by a producer who told her it was true. Fans reported significant upset at the announcement of the end of the series. The final episode was initially intended to be aired on 1 August 2022 in both the UK and Australia, after 10 Peach decided to close the broadcasting gap between the two countries by airing double episodes from 13 June. It was later announced that the finale would air on 28 July at 7:30 pm on Network 10 and 10 Peach simultaneously in Australia as
28875-508: Was inducted into the Logie Hall of Fame . The storylines concern the lives of the people who live and work in Erinsborough , a fictional suburb of Melbourne, Victoria . The series centres on the residents of Ramsay Street , a dead end street , and its neighbouring area, the Lassiters complex, which includes a bar, hotel, café, police station, lawyers' office and park. Neighbours began with
29050-417: Was like 'What the hell does a stonefish look like anyway?!'" Engelman believed he would be in the show for around "a month or two doing a couple of episodes", however, he became part of the regular cast. He said "It's just grown from there and I'm really very lucky. The producers have given me a little bit more to do, a bit more room to move and that's given me more confidence. Now I have more challenges, which
29225-415: Was now averaging 1.4 million viewers every night. In February 2008, new executive producer Susan Bower announced that she would be implementing further changes to the program. Bower promised to retain the return to traditional Neighbours values, but with an injection of drama that remains recognisable and relevant. Ratings rose to almost 900,000 in mid-2008, but generally ratings begin to fall towards
29400-412: Was pleased to get the role, he was not so keen on moving, saying "it was a real shock leaving my family and friends to move into an apartment on my own, then having to turn up at work not knowing anybody in the cast." McNair said the older cast members helped him out, making him feel more comfortable, and after a year in the role, McNair was happier about staying on. Malcolm is the eldest Kennedy child. He
29575-454: Was produced by Fremantle Australia and has been sold to over sixty countries around the world, making it one of Australia's most successful media exports. Neighbours had been especially successful in the United Kingdom, where it was first screened on 27 October 1986 on BBC One , and achieved huge popularity among British audiences in the late 1980s and 1990s. In 2008, it moved in the UK to Channel 5 ; since 2008 it had been largely paid for by
29750-401: Was removed from the schedule. TV4 (now Bravo) picked the show up and began broadcasting it from 1997. They dropped it in 2000 and it returned to TVNZ in 2002. Repeats of the previous day's episode of Neighbours were formerly shown at 2:30 pm weekdays, and later on TVNZ 2 at around 4:30 am Tuesdays to Fridays. The show moved to 5:25 pm weeknights on TV One in early 2007. After
29925-462: Was reported that negotiations to continue Neighbours on Channel 5 had become "very fraught", and it was possible that the show could stop airing in Britain. In late 2021, Channel 5 moved Neighbours to a 6 pm timeslot, as it extended its news coverage to a one-hour-long broadcast from 5 pm. The 1:45 pm showing was unchanged. On 5 February 2022, a report from The Sun , later confirmed by Digital Spy , stated that Neighbours had been cancelled in
30100-457: Was speculation that Neighbours would cease production following the breakdown of its deals in the United Kingdom, and Network Ten entering voluntary administration. On 9 October 2017, Stewart Clarke of Variety reported that Channel 5 and FremantleMedia had agreed a new deal that would see the yearly episode count increased from 240 to 258, as well as plans for new primetime specials. The deal meant that from 2018, Neighbours would run across
30275-452: Was taking photographs with a new camera and saw the picture when he got home. Sue Malins of the Daily Mirror thought Stonefish was "one of the show's most unattractive males." During Stonie's affair with Annalise, Tony Purnell dubbed him "the romeo with a ring in his ear". Jon Peake for Inside Soap called Stonefish "irritating". While Larissa Dubecki from The Age commented that he
30450-442: Was usually easy going, but he became really jealous. However, when Sassy moved out of the picture, Stonefish and Brett become great friends. When Stonefish fell behind with his studies, Cody Willis ( Peta Brady ) helped him out, making Stonefish think she was romantically interested in him. Engelman said, "He's really got the hots for her, but when he makes a pass at her at a party it all goes horribly wrong." The actor said he had
30625-549: Was watched by up to 16 million viewers – more than the entire population of Australia at the time. In 1988, Neighbours became the only television show to have its entire cast flown over to the UK to make an appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in front of the Queen . Neighbours has since become the longest running drama series in Australian television and the seventh longest running serial drama still on
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