After shock speculation on Saturday night that its days were numbered, Channel 5 has officially confirmed that Neighbours will be scrapped in the UK, with the news seeing petitions launched to try and save the long-running show.
The Australian soap launched back in 1985 and quickly became a huge hit with British audiences, pulling in big audiences on BBC1 for both its early afternoon episode and teatime repeat as viewers tuned in to see the latest goings on from families like the Ramseys and Robinsons.
Iconic Neighbours moments over the years include Scott and Charlene’s wedding, when Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue’s characters tied the knot; Harold going missing only return again years later thinking he was a different person and the highly bizarre Bouncer’s dream episode.
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On Saturday night, The Sun broke the news that Neighbours faced an uncertain future after talks between Channel 5, who air it in the UK and Aussie producers Fremantle had failed to strike a deal.
And now Channel 5 have confirmed the long running soap will be axed in the UK from the summer.
A spokesperson said: "Neighbours will no longer air on Channel 5 beyond this summer.
"It has 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."
Channel 5's statement prompted an outpouring of upset and support from fans, some of whom have launched Save Neighbours campaigns and petitions.
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