The beloved Australian soap opera Neighbours is coming to an end once again, just two years after being revived by Amazon MGM Studios.
Amazon has confirmed that the long-running series will conclude at the end of 2025, marking four decades and over 9,000 episodes since its debut. However, no specific reason for the cancellation was given.
A Second Farewell for Ramsay Street
Originally axed by Channel 5 in 2022, Neighbours made a surprise return just months later, following a star-studded farewell episode that captivated millions of viewers. The show, which helped launch the careers of stars like Kylie Minogue, Guy Pearce, and Margot Robbie, has remained a staple for audiences in both Australia and the UK. It even earned its first Emmy nomination last year.
A statement shared on the show’s social media suggested that this might not be a permanent goodbye.
“Audiences around the world have loved and embraced Neighbours for four decades, and we are very proud of the huge success over the last two years,” said executive producer Jason Herbison.
He also hinted that the team may seek new backing in the future, saying, “We value how much fans love Neighbours, and we believe there are still more stories of Ramsay Street to tell.”
Until its final episodes air in late 2025, new installments will continue to be released four times a week on Amazon Prime Video and Australia’s Channel Ten.
Amazon Reflects on Neighbours’ Legacy
In a statement, Amazon MGM Studios expressed its appreciation for being part of the show’s history.
“Forty years is an incredible milestone,” a spokesperson said. “We are proud to have played a small part in its legacy.”
Filmed and set in Melbourne, Neighbours first aired in Australia in 1985 before making its way to UK audiences on BBC One the following year. In recent years, the series has embraced more diverse characters and storylines, including Australian television’s first same-sex marriage.
Controversy and Challenges
Despite its popularity, Neighbours has faced challenges. Several actors have spoken out about racism on set, prompting production company Fremantle Media to pledge a review of its practices.
The latest cancellation also comes after the departure of Ian Smith, who played beloved character Harold Bishop. The veteran actor announced last year that he was leaving the show after revealing his terminal cancer diagnosis.
While Neighbours is once again coming to an end, fans may still hold out hope that Ramsay Street will return in the future.