Back in 2022 after the axing of Neighbours, this 9,000 episode milestone seemed most unlikely. Fast forward a couple of years and after getting our favourite show back last year, we now have two milestones to celebrate in the space of a week. Firstly, the 9000th Neighbours episode has just been broadcast today (Monday 4th of March) and then this Thursday, we have the 100th episode since its return. A special week for fans of the show.
The show has been so good since Amazon restarted production, and after a period of time to settle back into its storylines, our show is now firing on full cylinders. The 9,000th episode focused on Paul Robinson, with actor Stefan Dennis taking his rightful position as central focus in the episode as the only remaining original character – reminiscing about his past achievements and misdemeanours. An enjoyable episode. And if you have not watched since its return, it can be found to stream on Amazon FreeVee. Lots of storylines ahead for Paul and the cast.
Since the return, we have been introduced to some new characters and many old faces. And a couple of characters having a face transplant! If you have not watched in a while, here is my summary of current characters.
Many of the current storylines indicate changes are afoot, but here is a listing of everyone and where they currently live. Expect change soon!
Penthouse – Paul (and Chelsea currently)
Paul played by Stefan Dennis is the perfect villain and loveable rogue. Currently sharing his penthouse with Chelsea. Paul is the only original character from the 80’s left and is one of the most well known of all soap characters.
Hopefully one day if Stefan Dennis comes back to the UK, I can get a meet if any organised events. As for Chelsea, while a new character, she has lots of potential as Cara’s sister and she is enjoyable to watch. You need pantomime villains and here, you have two together.
Leo did also live here with Abigail. However, has temporarily moved out.
No 22 – Terese/Toadie/NelL and Hugo
Terese played by Rebecca Elmaloglou is another of my favourite characters. A great actress mixing drama and comedy. I am also watching old episodes and she is hilarious while having her fling with Gary Canning.
Toadie is of course another classic character and he is coming to the UK this year for his Toad on the road tour. I’m not sure why the recasting of his children was so controversial and I do like the new Nell. It was a good idea to age and recast.
No 24 – Jane/Mike/Sam/David (RIP)/Arron/Nicolette and Isla
Jane (Annie Jones) was an 80’s character who returned in sound 2018. As to how long Mike will live here remains to be seen as he is rarely seen on screen. Though his next FaceTime was teased at the end of the 9,000th episode.
The new Nicolette was very well cast and is enjoyable to watch. And Aaron Brennan is of course another long term character that joined the shop in 2016.
No 26 – Andrew/Wendy/Sadie and Felix
I really like this newer family who joined in 2022, though Andrew had featured earlier than that in episodes as the local police officer. His wife Wendy is already a classic neighbours character (Yoohoo!) and loving detective Sadie – Sussing out happenings around Erinsborough. And Andrew’s brother is joining the household soon to live with the family.
No 28 – Karl/Susan/Holly and Melanie
More of my favourites with Dr K who is hilarious and his ever patient wife Susan. Great to see Holly back and as a permanent cast after many appearances since being a child. And Mel but I don’t think she will be in the house much longer!
No 30 – Haz/Mac/Byron, Krista and Trevor the dog
Good to see Mac back and Byron. A new dog and owner Haz who also works at the coffee shop as the manager. I’m not sure yet about Haz, he better treat Mac well! Also now home for Krista Sinclair.
No 32 – Cara/Remi/JJ/Dex
Loving this new family. All excellent characters and particularly love Dr Remi. Glad to see that they have been given good storylines to introduce them. Looking forward to seeing more story lines with them and great the way they have been integrated in with all the other characters.
No 34 – Vera and Curtis
Vera Punt is a fantastic guest star making occasional appearances. Pure comedy. While only seen as a guest once since the return, hopefully we will see a lot more. And while Curtis does not live with her, he is her nephew and is a teacher at Erinsborough High.
Occasional current guest stars
In real life, characters always come and go so it makes sense that we have old school character Lucy Robinson coming in and out of the show, each time catching up with her brother Paul. And who knows, maybe we will we see Harold again!
Bring back –
Guest stars – Terese’s mum Estelle and Mick Allsop. Both were excellent and need to come back. And also bring back regular cast member, Imogen Willis/Robinson. Always enjoyed Imogen on screen. Great character.
