Neighbours great Alan Fletcher has revealed he appeared on show as an extra for week before landing the iconic Karl Kennedy role as he got emotional about the show's finale.
The soap star appeared on This Morning to discuss the end of the programme, with the curtain about to come down this summer after almost four decades. Filming has already ended - and it provoked plenty of emotion.
The actor is best known for portraying Dr Karl since 1994, but he'd actually made his debut in Erinsborough seven years earlier.
He had the job of guiding Charlene Robinson, played by superstar Kylie Minogue, at a local garage.
Host Dermot O'Leary asked him about his first steps on Ramsay Street, saying not many people know Karl isn't his only role on the show.
Alison Hammond said: "I didn't know that either!"
Alan then told them: "Greg is a mechanic with a deep, dark secret - there's always a deep dark secret!
"They had a three-week gap for an apprentice mechanic. I was the supervisor! It was just a wonderful fun show. I knew Stefan Dennis and Alan Dale.
"Everyone talks about what a family atmosphere it is, and it really was like that in 1987 - as it has always been.
"I went away and it didn't occur to me that I would go back. They then asked if I would like to do another year.
"A year of work for an actor? That's gold!"
The 65-year-old spoke earlier this year about his battle with alopecia. He addressed his hair loss after fans shared concern over his health.
In a video uploaded to Neighbours' official Twitter, he removed his hat to show his new look.
He wrote on Instagram : "There's been concern expressed on the web that I am unwell. I can assure you I am fit and well and very busy filming the last episodes of Neighbours EVER!
"I have a disorder called alopecia areata that causes patchy hair loss. I have recorded a video explaining the condition which you can view on my website and on the Neighbours Facebook page.
"Thank you for your concern and support. Fletch."
