End of an era as Australia marks Neighbours' final episode with public screening

Neighbours fans gathered in Melbourne for a special screening of the final ever episode of the popular soap, as it comes to an end after 37 years.

Fans of all ages united at Federation Square in Melbourne on Thursday (July 28) to say goodbye to Ramsay Street forever, as the highly-anticipated finale aired down under.

Quotes from audience members, describing what Neighbours meant to them, appeared on screens, while some in attendance had cardboard cutouts of characters such as Paul Robinson and Karl Kennedy.

No, you’re crying.

It was confirmed earlier this year that Neighbours would end after 37 years, as Channel 5 controversially decided to drop it from their schedules in favour of ‘original UK drama’, which the broadcaster claims has a ‘strong appeal’ for audiences.

Production company Fremantle had hoped to obtain another UK broadcasting partner to replace Channel 5, but they were ultimately forced to admit defeat soon afterwards.


The final episode, which will air in the UK on Friday (July 29) is expected to celebrate everything Neighbours is, was and still could’ve been.

When asked if the series finale was a celebration of the show’s overall legacy, Alan Fletcher – who plays Karl Kennedy – told Metro.co.uk: ‘That’s exactly what the storyliners and the executive producer were aiming for.


‘There will be some nice little twists and turns in there to intrigue the audience. It wouldn’t be Neighbours without that!

‘But there is also going to be a celebratory mood around the show. There will be a few tears in a few living rooms when it airs on July 29!’

Charlotte Chimes, who plays Nicolette Stone, added that she was really sad when she learned the show was ending.

‘It comes in waves,’ she told us. ‘I’m sad – really sad. But then at the same time, I’m excited for the next adventure. 

‘I’m really sad for all the fans, and for the Australian industry. We’re losing an absolute training ground for crew and cast. I go through phases of being really sad: “I’m going to really miss this”, and I’m sure there will be a grieving period.’

A number of famous stars who rose to fame on Neighbours, including Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan and Margot Robbie, are all set to reprise their roles in the last ever episode.

Delta Goodrem (Nina Tucker), Kym Valentine (Libby Kennedy), Carla Bonner (Steph Scully) and Jesse Spencer (Billy Kennedy) will also make appearances, and reports suggest we may even see Holly Valance and Natalie Imbruglia pop up as well!

Talk about going out with a bang!

Neighbours: The Finale airs Friday July 29 at 9pm on Channel 5

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