Introduction
“Neighbours,” one of Australia’s longest-running and most beloved soap operas, has been officially cancelled—again. The show first aired in 1985 and quickly became an international sensation, especially in the UK. Despite being revived by Amazon Freevee in 2023, the streaming platform has now decided to end its financial support, leading to the show’s second cancellation. In this article, we’ll explore the history of “Neighbours,” why it has been cancelled, and whether it could return once more.
The History of “Neighbours”
Early Days and Rise to Fame
“Neighbours” premiered on March 18, 1985, on Australia’s Seven Network but was initially cancelled due to low ratings. However, it found a new home on Network Ten in 1986, where it gained popularity. The show focused on the lives of residents in the fictional Ramsay Street, a quiet Melbourne suburb, showcasing their relationships, careers, and daily dramas.
International Success
The show became a massive hit in the UK, where it aired on BBC One and later Channel 5. It introduced the world to actors like Kylie Minogue, Margot Robbie, Guy Pearce, and Chris Hemsworth, who all launched their careers through “Neighbours.”
Why Was “Neighbours” Cancelled?
First Cancellation (2022)
In 2022, “Neighbours” was cancelled after Channel 5, its major UK broadcaster, pulled its funding. The show’s producers, Fremantle Media, were unable to secure a new funding partner, leading to the show’s abrupt end. However, due to overwhelming fan demand, Amazon Freevee stepped in to save the series in 2023.
Second Cancellation (2025)
In February 2025, Amazon Freevee announced that it would no longer support “Neighbours,” leading to its second cancellation. The reasons behind this decision include:
- Low Viewership: Despite its revival, the show struggled to attract enough streaming audiences on Freevee.
- Amazon Freevee’s Restructuring: Amazon is integrating Freevee into Prime Video, leading to budget cuts and strategic changes.
- High Production Costs: Producing a daily soap opera requires significant investment, and without enough financial returns, Freevee decided to pull the plug.
Will “Neighbours” Return Again?
Although the show is set to conclude in December 2025, Fremantle Media is exploring new options, including:
- Finding Another Streaming Partner: There is speculation that a platform like Netflix or Disney+ could pick up the series.
- A Possible Limited Series Revival: The show might return in a shorter, limited-run format.
- Fan-Led Campaigns: Much like the 2023 revival, a passionate fan base could influence another comeback.
Conclusion
“Neighbours” has been a staple in Australian and UK television for nearly four decades. Its second cancellation marks the end of an era, but given its history of comebacks, another revival isn’t entirely off the table. Fans will have to wait and see if Ramsay Street finds a new home once again.
