Neighbours fans have been left devastated by the announcement that the much-loved Australian soap has been axed by Channel 5.
The soap has been at the center of the channel's daytime schedule since taking over from the BBC in 2008.
Neighbours has been on air for more than 36 years, originally starting on BBC1 in the UK in 1986, and has launched some of the most famous names in TV, film, and music, including Kylie Minogue, Liam Hemsworth, Russell Crowe, Jason Donovan, Margot Robbie, and Guy Pearce.
Channel 5 has told What To Watch: "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.
"We’d also of course like to thank the fans for their loyal support of Neighbours across the years. We recognise that there will be disappointment about this decision, however, our current focus is on increasing our investment in original UK drama, which has strong appeal for our viewers."
In recent years Channel 5 has enjoyed huge success with stand-out dramas such as Lie with Me, The Teacher, and a remake of All Creatures Great and Small.
Fans have taken to Twitter to share their upset at the news, with #saveneighbours now trending on the social media site and even Jason Donovan has commented on the news...
@neighbours changed the Australian television landscape. It launched many careers over decades including mine. Engaged and entertained audiences for generations.Hoping that it will find a new home with another U.K. broadcaster and continue to provide opportunity and entertainmentFebruary 6, 2022
I’ve watched Neighbours for my entire life. It’s brought me joy, escapism and comfort when I’ve needed it. It’s introduced me to many amazing people who care so deeply about the show. It’s more than just a TV show for me and many others, it’s a community. #SaveNeighboursFebruary 5, 2022
Honestly, this is such a bad decision. #Neighbours is absolutely brilliant right now - engaging storylines with a fantastic cast and still getting good ratings. It’s on top form and I’d say that it’s even better than our soaps tbh. I’m gutted 😭😭 #SaveNeighboursFebruary 6, 2022
Calling off work sick tomorrow due to a bereavement in the family.#Neighbours #SaveNeighboursFebruary 6, 2022
It has been reported in The Sydney Morning Herald that the soap will now stop filming after the British production company behind the show failed to reach a financial agreement with Channel 5, which has been largely funding the soap since 2008.
Until Neighbours finds a new company to financially back it, production will have to be put on pause for an indefinite period.
According to the Australian website, Fremantle Media executive producer Jason Herbison reportedly emailed the cast and crew earlier today saying: "Our audience remains steady and Australian partner Channel Ten would love the show to continue if we could find another broadcast partner to replace Channel 5.
“These discussions are ongoing, however, there is no new broadcaster at the moment and production must end, effectively resting the show.
"We are so proud of the show, you all, and everything that you’ve achieved. But for now, this chapter is closing and we want to work together to give Neighbours the amazing send-off it deserves.”
Staff have allegedly been asked to attend a meeting on Monday and filming will reportedly continue until Jun. 10.
The show's Australian broadcaster Channel 10 has also released a statement about the news... "As outlined in the email to Neighbours cast and crew, it is our intention to continue our association with Neighbours if another broadcast partner comes forward.
"Channel 10 has an ongoing commitment to the show, the cast, and crew and is hopeful that Fremantle will find a new production partner. We will provide further updates as they become available."
Neighbours airs weekdays at 1.45pm and 5.30pm on Channel 5.
