Alan Fletcher's Passionate Defense
Alan Fletcher, the 66-year-old actor renowned for his portrayal of Dr. Karl Kennedy on the long-running Australian soap 'Neighbours' since 1994, is convinced that the show's recent resurgence is nothing short of remarkable. Following its cancellation in 2022, Amazon's decision to revive the series brought joy not only to the cast and crew but also to its devoted fanbase.
In an exclusive interview with BANG Showbiz, Alan shared his insights into the show's enduring popularity: "Last year, when 'Neighbours' aired its final episode, an astonishing 5.5 million Brits tuned in to bid farewell to Erinsborough and its residents. The affection for 'Neighbours' has always been unwavering; it has consistently been a beloved show."
Alan went on to explain that the show's cancellation in the previous year was primarily due to a funding issue. The announcement of its impending end left fans devastated, as evidenced by the overwhelming support shown during the final episode's broadcast. "When the news broke that we were concluding the series, a multitude of viewers rallied to watch the farewell episode. Amazon took note of this tremendous response, along with the numerous social media posts, petitions pleading for its return, and the outpouring of grief that followed its discontinuation."
He continued, "It became abundantly clear that 'Neighbours' had a vibrant future, and its resurrection was met with an outpouring of pure elation."
Elaborating on his theory regarding the enduring appeal of 'Neighbours,' the show that launched the careers of stars like Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Margot Robbie, and Natalie Imbruglia, Alan emphasized its role in providing solace during challenging times: "For 37 years, 'Neighbours' has been an accidental hit, and I firmly believe it will continue to be for many more. In a world marked by the trials of Covid, job insecurities, and health concerns, 'Neighbours' offers viewers a precious half-hour of respite each day."