Abigail Tanaka
Curtis Perkins | |
|---|---|
| Occupation(s) | Mathematics and physics instructor |
| Years active | 2021–present |
| Known for | Character in Neighbours |
| Notable work | Teaching Auslan courses, vocational project at Erinsborough High |
Curtis Perkins
Curtis Perkins, brought to life by Nathan Borg, made his first appearance on 28 January 2021. Borg’s casting was revealed on 3 December 2020, marking a significant moment as the first Australian television actor with a cochlear implant. Curtis is introduced as a newly certified mathematics and physics instructor at Erinsborough High, a character developed by executive producer Jason Herbison. He is characterized as laid-back yet determined, with his identity not solely defined by his hearing impairment. Initially signed for an eight-week stint, Borg was asked to extend his role following favorable audience response.
Curtis’s narrative arc involves teaching Auslan courses and providing guidance to pupils such as Hendrix Greyson and Brent Colefax, showcasing his dedication to student support and vocational education initiatives. He launches a vocational project alongside Hendrix and Brent, which initially causes friction with fellow educator Jane Harris but ultimately receives endorsement from principal Susan Kennedy. His backstory includes being Vera Punt’s nephew.
The character faces adversity when attacked by Holden Brice, which results in damage to his cochlear implant and hampers his ability to react during an emergency situation. Subsequently, Curtis contributes a statement that assists the ongoing investigation. Professionally, he earns confidence by overseeing Year 13 classes and advising students on rehabilitation options, including encouraging Brent to pursue enlistment in the Australian Defence Force as an alternative to imprisonment.
Curtis is also involved in a romantic storyline with Jesse Porter; however, their relationship ends due to Jesse’s conflicting priorities and dishonesty, presenting emotional difficulties for Curtis. Beyond his teaching duties, Curtis voices concerns regarding student influences and helps facilitate homeschooling transitions, reflecting his wider engagement within the school community.
Jesse Porter
Jesse Porter, portrayed by Cameron Robbie, was first seen on 19 March 2021. Robbie—brother of actress Margot Robbie—secured the role after auditioning in late 2020. Jesse works as a lifeguard who takes on a summer position at Lassiter's Hotel while contemplating his career direction. Coming from an affluent family background, he aims to escape familial expectations. Robbie described Jesse as "fun-loving" with a storyline full of "twists and turns."
Approximately four months after his debut, it was unveiled that Jesse has ties to the Quill family—rivals operating a competing hotel chain—and had been covertly supporting their efforts against Lassiters. Robbie highlighted this gradual revelation as adding complexity and intrigue to Jesse’s character, emphasizing his internal struggles and attempts to please others while concealing personal challenges.
Jesse serves as both bartender and ceremonial lifeguard at The Flamingo Bar near Lassiter's Lake, assisting colleagues such as Roxy Willis and Sheila Canning with promotions and events. He champions Roxy’s candidacy for bar manager and helps coordinate activities including volleyball tournaments and fitness contests that boost customer involvement. Additionally, Jesse mentors Harlow Robinson in environmental initiatives following her acceptance of an executive assistant position.
Balancing work and personal life, Jesse shares a brief flirtation and relationship with Curtis Perkins. He also collaborates with Shay Quill from the Quill Group by providing intelligence on Lassiters’ operations under pressure to deliver results. Despite ethical conflicts, Jesse continues spying but wrestles with divided loyalties.
When Terese Willis uncovers Jesse’s espionage activities, she terminates his employment but later offers guidance after he distances himself from the Quills. Jesse supports staff amid a strike over Harlow’s promotion and aids in easing workplace tensions. His bond with Terese deepens as they share personal revelations about her deceased son Josh Willis, leading Jesse to visit his estranged mother in prison.
The Quill Group’s financial troubles disrupt a significant hotel land sale, affecting business strategies. Paul Robinson warns Jesse against involving Terese in these complications. Following advice from David Tanaka about reconsidering his relationship with Terese, Jesse resigns from Lassiters and moves to Sydney but returns briefly for closure before departing once again.
Sheila Canning
Sheila Canning, played by Shareena Clanton, made her first appearance on 7 April 2021. Clanton's casting was revealed on 29 March 2021, with filming taking place between October 2020 and March 2021. The character shares her name with an established regular, portrayed by Colette Mann, leading to a storyline centered around mistaken identity. Clanton had previously acted in Wentworth, creating a connection to Mann’s earlier role in Prisoner. David Knox from TV Tonight referred to this as a "cheeky casting" choice. Sheila visits The Hive, an arts co-working space, and becomes entangled in a mail confusion involving Mann’s Sheila. Before the character's debut, Clanton publicly criticized the Neighbours production for racism and misogyny, stating she would not return. A reviewer from the Evening Express described her short stint as notably memorable.
Upon arriving in Erinsborough, Sheila pays a compliment to Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) and heads to The Hive, where she helps Ned Willis (Ben Hall) while gaining insight into the venue’s operations. Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) introduces Sheila as a prospective buyer; however, after finding irregularities in The Hive’s finances via a USB left behind at her hotel, she withdraws from the purchase. Later, moved by Ned’s artistic enthusiasm, Sheila reconsiders acquiring The Hive at a discounted rate and requests painting lessons from him. She also conducts background checks on Ned through her assistant, planning to convert The Hive into an accessible art space managed by Ned.
Sheila joins Bea Nilsson (Bonnie Anderson) and Levi Canning (Richie Morris) for lunch, offering to teach them her Aboriginal language after consulting with an elder. When Bea discovers a folder about Ned in Sheila’s rental car, tension arises but is eased when Ned expresses his confidence in Sheila. Following Sheila’s online review, Bea loses her garage job. During emotional painting sessions with Ned, Sheila reveals her grief over her grandmother’s death and the border restrictions that prevent her from returning home.
After Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) uncovers Ned’s involvement in leaking The Hive’s financial information, Sheila agrees to purchase the business at full value to shield Paul. Ned unveils a new gallery name and logo; their relationship deepens but becomes strained when Ned resigns from the gallery. This leads Sheila to plan a trip to Perth for closure regarding her grandmother’s passing.
Before departing, Sheila advises Bea about her relationship with Levi, encouraging honesty that results in their breakup. She offers to buy Levi’s car so Bea can embark on a road trip and urges Ned to confess his feelings to Yashvi Rebecchi (Olivia Junkeer). After abandoning plans for The Hive gallery, Sheila confronts Mann’s Sheila about Bea and Levi’s split and the recording of private conversations at The Hive. Prior to leaving Erinsborough, Sheila apologizes for earlier accusations and expresses gratitude to Kyle Canning for their friendship. She then exits town accompanied by Bea.
Abigail Tanaka
Abigail Tanaka, brought to life by Nikita Kato since 2023, is the daughter of Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano) and Britney Barnes (Montana Cox). Her debut occurred on 10 August 2021, originally portrayed by infant actors Mary Finn, Axelle Austin, and Juliet Basaraba. Abigail's storyline began with a baby swap involving the surrogate Nicolette Stone (Charlotte Chimes), who absconded with the unborn child of David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson). Although Nicolette was not initially intended to be the surrogate character, the plot had been in development since December 2019. She handed over Abigail under the false pretense that the baby was David and Aaron’s daughter, Isla Tanaka-Brennan (Axelle Austin), when in fact, Abigail was Leo and Britney’s child. Introducing Abigail was pivotal in maintaining Leo’s ongoing role in Erinsborough. Initially credited as "Isla Tanaka-Brennan," her name was corrected to "Abigail Tanaka" once the truth surfaced. After Abigail left Erinsborough, Finn continued portraying Isla, with Austin returning as Abigail before Basaraba took over the role in 2022.
Nicolette entrusted Abigail to Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), claiming she was his granddaughter named Isla. Paul then passed her to David and Aaron, who believed she was their biological daughter. Following an anemia diagnosis at the hospital, Abigail met several family members including Leo Tanaka, Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly), and others. During a film festival, Britney kidnapped Abigail but later she was safely recovered. Britney disclosed Abigail’s true identity and her connection to Leo in New York City; Leo had left prior to learning about the pregnancy. Britney suffered from post-natal depression and allowed Nicolette to hand over Abigail to Paul. Once the truth was revealed, custody reverted to Britney and Leo, who subsequently relocated to Wollongong, taking Abigail along to bid farewell to David, Aaron, Paul, and Harlow.
Abigail and Britney returned to Erinsborough for Christmas; tragically, Britney died shielding Abigail from a falling telegraph pole. Leo became a single father but faced challenges after Abigail was hospitalized due to a fall. He asked David and Aaron to care for her but ultimately retained custody following encouragement from Chloe not to give up. Leo continued his parental duties, including bringing Abigail to a Ramsay Street gathering in July 2022.
Evelyn Farlow
Evelyn Farlow, played by Paula Arundell, made her first appearance on 24 August 2021. Announced on 12 August 2021, Evelyn remained on screen for approximately two weeks as the mother of regular character Levi Canning (Richie Morris). Her traditional values caused Levi to conceal his polyamorous relationship with Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton), who is also involved with Ned Willis (Ben Hall), throughout her visit.
Evelyn arrives in Erinsborough unexpectedly to visit Levi during a break between work assignments. She presents him with a belated birthday gift from her family and reconnects with his relatives including cousin Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan) and grandmother Sheila Canning (Colette Mann). Kyle reveals that Evelyn’s conservative parents prevented her from raising Levi due to his conception from an extramarital affair. Evelyn and Sheila discuss past conflicts, with Evelyn feeling alienated from family gatherings partly because Levi’s stepmother Jackie turned relatives against her.
At The Waterhole, Evelyn watches Amy and Ned’s relationship unfold and voices doubts about their age gap. After attempts at reconciliation with Sheila, Evelyn contemplates extending her stay to spend additional time with Levi. However, upon learning about Levi’s relationship with Amy, Evelyn confronts him but struggles to accept his polyamorous lifestyle. Amy encourages Evelyn to prioritize Levi’s happiness despite their differing perspectives.
Although initial tensions arose, Evelyn dines with Levi and Amy before departing the following day. She admits discomfort with Levi’s choices but resolves to respect his independence moving forward.
Britney Barnes
Britney Barnes, played by Montana Cox, made her first appearance on 9 September 2021. Cox, whose casting was announced via the show's Instagram and confirmed by Digital Spy, took on this role as her acting debut. She started filming immediately and described the experience as an honor, despite feeling nervous due to her lack of prior acting experience. Britney's narrative revolves around her niece, Abigail Tanaka, who David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson) initially mistake for their daughter Isla. Deeply attached to Abigail, Britney briefly kidnaps her, believing it to be her only option. It is later disclosed that Britney is actually Abigail’s biological mother, with David’s brother, Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano), being the father.
After departing at the end of September, Britney and Abigail returned for the Christmas episodes. Following a reunion with Leo, Britney tragically dies during a storm in Erinsborough, leaving Leo to raise their child alone.
Britney is first seen at Harold's Café watching David, Aaron, and Harlow Robinson care for Isla Tanaka-Brennan. She follows them around Lassiter's complex and eventually breaks into 32 Ramsay Street clutching one of Isla’s toys. Taking advantage of a distraction caused by fireworks, Britney abducts Isla. Constable Levi Canning later discovers Britney with the baby at the Community Centre, where she reveals that the child is hers.
Nicolette Stone brings back the real Isla and explains that Britney became pregnant with Leo Tanaka’s child after their time together in New York City. Britney had planned to tell Leo but fled upon seeing him with Chloe Brennan. She gave birth in Canberra with Nicolette’s assistance but struggled with post-natal depression and allowed Nicolette to place the baby with Paul Robinson, who mistakenly believed the child was Nicolette’s.
At the hospital, Britney meets David and Aaron after they uncover the truth; she names her daughter Abigail. Although Aaron is hesitant, Leo meets Abigail and discusses future plans with Britney, who confesses that giving up Abigail was her greatest regret. Terese Willis invites Britney and Abigail to live at 22 Ramsay Street. Britney and Leo try to reconcile for their daughter’s sake but face difficulties due to differing priorities. Terese offers to babysit Abigail but must leave suddenly, leaving David and Aaron struggling to connect with their biological child. Later, Britney voices her frustration and admits she finds it hard to bond with Abigail in Erinsborough. Leo suggests moving closer to her family in New South Wales; they relocate to Wollongong after farewells.
Britney and Abigail return for Christmas; Britney apologizes for past actions and decides to stay longer, hinting at rekindled feelings for Leo. She encourages Leo to host a ladies' lunch at his winery aimed at attracting investors, although the event encounters obstacles from guest Vera Punt. Nicolette supports Britney’s renewed relationship with Leo, who grows closer to her through their shared connection with Abigail and invites her to Roxy and Kyle Canning’s wedding. At the wedding, after Nicolette inadvertently reveals Britney’s feelings, Leo kisses her. When a pylon collapses on The Flamingo Bar, Britney protects Abigail but suffers fatal injuries that lead to her death.
Felicity Higgins
Felicity Higgins, brought to life by Isabella Giovinazzo, made her first appearance on 6 October 2021. Announced on 8 July 2021, Giovinazzo joined the series in a guest capacity, injecting "edgy and intense drama" into Ramsay Street. Felicity acts as a romantic interest for established character Levi Canning (Richie Morris), who is engaged in a polyamorous relationship with Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton) and Ned Willis (Ben Hall). Giovinazzo described Felicity as "community-oriented," "kind," and "straightforward," with a bold career as a firefighter. She highlighted that Felicity differs from her previous roles by being more "grounded" and stressed the character's preference for a conventional monogamous relationship, which complicates her dynamic with Levi.
Their initial encounter occurs at The Waterhole, where they connect over their shared public service professions—Levi as a police officer and Felicity as a firefighter. Their bond strengthens through multiple dates, though Levi conceals his polyamorous involvement with Amy and Ned. Felicity uncovers Levi's relationship with Amy during a visit to Harold's Café, prompting their breakup. Despite Ned’s attempts to mend the situation by organizing another date and even securing a hotel room for Felicity and Levi, tensions rise. A confrontation initiated by Amy and Felicity’s admission leads Levi to end the relationship, citing breaches of trust. Felicity issues an apology, concluding her storyline.
Wendy Rodwell
Wendy Rodwell, portrayed by Candice Leask, first appeared on 2 December 2021. Introduced as the spouse of Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) during the Erinsborough Police Ball, Wendy and Andrew subsequently acquire 26 Ramsay Street and are featured in the opening credits alongside their daughter Sadie Rodwell (Emerald Chan). Script producer Shane Isheev revealed that the Rodwells were envisioned as the show's "major new family," although plans for additional children were halted due to the series' cancellation. Wendy was characterized as the local gossip, inspired by Leask’s portrayal at the police ball event. She remained through the intended 2022 finale and reprised her role in the Neighbours reboot.
Others
16–30 June 25 October Juliana Ayres Chelsea Gibb Lawyer assisting David Tanaka and Aaron Brennan in custody proceedings concerning Isla Tanaka-Brennan. 25 October 2021, 8 March 2022 Pia Nash Sarah Melody Hallam Legal professional collaborating with Juliana Ayres during custody negotiations. 1 November Betty De Silva Priscilla Castel Photographer hired for family portraits amid interpersonal tensions involving key characters. 10 November Seth Okaine Noah Janssen Customer disputing drink contents at The Flamingo Bar; files complaint. 17 November Will Attles Charlie Mycroft Facilitator of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings attended by Glen Donnelly and Terese Willis. 18 November Tilda Natalie Lynch (voice) Lassiter's employee reporting on missing wedding ring incident. 30 November 2021, 6 January 2022, 23 February 2022 Scott Triffett Steven Oktaras Delivery person managing packages for Ramsay Street residents. 1 December Const. Robert Dolby Brett Pearce Police officer commenting on Levi Canning’s polyamorous relationship dynamics. 2 December Const. Reuben Elliot Lee Jankowski Police officer attending Erinsborough Police Ball; creates tension regarding polyamorous relationship awareness.| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Role Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–11 January | Tally Rennick | Karrin Kose | Participates in illicit blackjack games on Ramsay Street; involved in a gambling-related subplot with Hendrix Greyson. |
| 5 January | Mary Barnett | Emily Goddard | Toadfish Rebecchi’s initial Tinder date; owns a chocolate shop; disappears after unmatching him. |
| 6 January | Hugh Davis | Adam Waycott | Council member and judge for Erinsborough's Best Dish contest; interacts with Dipi Rebecchi. |
| 8–26 January | Jacinta Hay | Maurian Spearim | Councillor and competition judge; hospitalized following an incident; discusses staff representation and Indigenous matters with Terese Willis. |
| 1–5 February | Mira Dhaliwal | Ashleyrose Gilham | Food safety official who temporarily closes The 82 due to a poisoning concern; misreads Roxy Willis’ intentions. |
| 12 February | Rai Yan | Kevin Duong | Student at Erinsborough High who alerts Hendrix Greyson about leaked personal information. |
| 11 March | Khari Breen | Kulan Farah | University student who approaches Roxy Willis with limited knowledge about an assault. |
| 17 March | Linda Donaldson | Amelia Best | Emmett Donaldson’s caretaker aunt; debates his living situation amid family challenges. |
| 17 March–7 May 2021, 13 July 2022 | Holden Brice | Toby Derrick | Gang member connected to Brent Colefax’s criminal activities; involved in thefts and assaults; manipulated by Paul Robinson. |
| 17 March–29 June | Prue | (voice, uncredited) | Pigeon adopted by Sheila Canning, causing minor disturbances around Ramsay Street. |
| 29 March | Rudy Johnson | Isaac Crawley | Accidentally hired as a penis puppeteer for party entertainment mix-up. |
| 4 June, 30 August | Prafulla Sahu | Ravi Chand | HR manager at Lassiter's Hotel involved in staff disputes and concerns over nepotism related to Harlow Robinson's promotion. |
| 'Mitch Foster' | 'Kevin Hofbauer' | 'Gang member from Levi Canning’s past; participates in intimidation and crime; eventually arrested.' | |
| 'Nelson Ryker' | 'Rhys Mitchell' | 'Partner of Mitch Foster in gang-related conflicts.' | |
| '18 June–19 July' | 'Maya Velasco' | 'Christina O'Neill' | 'Pregnant attendee of antenatal classes alongside key characters; plans single parenthood.' |
| '18 June' | 'Dara Kay' | 'Alexander Capper' | 'Host of antenatal sessions attended by main characters.' |
| '28 June' | 'Fifi Devenue' | 'Carly Daniels' | 'Friend of Jesse Porter; briefly dates Ned Willis, causing jealousy.' |
| '30 June 2021, 16 March 2022, 27 March–14 November 2024' | 'Travis Kellog' | 'Liam McCarthy' | 'Paramedic attending multiple emergencies involving main characters over several years.' |
| '29 July–3 August' | 'Dr. Anna Buke' | 'Fiona Macleod' | 'Physician involved in storyline concerning past affairs and restraining orders affecting Melanie Pearson.' |
| '4 August' | 'Nora Ahmadi' | 'Jessica Lu' | 'University intern at law firm expressing concerns about workplace misconduct.' |
| '10 August–' | 'Isla Tanaka-Brennan' | 'Axelle Austin / Mary Finn / Hana Abe-Tucker' | 'Infant daughter of Nicolette Stone, David Tanaka, and Aaron Brennan; central figure in custody disputes.' |
| '25 August' | 'Lorant Mathieson' | 'Ronn Kurtz' | 'Head of Shorts and Briefs Film Festival; congratulates Amy Greenwood on event organization.' |
| '6 September' | 'Justin Buke' | 'Mick O'Malley' | 'Anna Buke’s husband with complicated ties to Melanie Pearson.' |
| '9 September 2021, 5 January 2022, 30 May 2022' | 'Rebecca Wright' | 'Wallis Murphy-Munn' | 'Lassiter's Hotel staff leader involved in strikes and workplace tensions.' |
| '13 September' | 'Kevin Irving' | 'Wally Elnour' | 'Bartender serving Harlow Robinson at The Flamingo Bar.' |
| '16 September–11 November' | 'Dr Cye Alavi' | 'Amir Rahimzadeh' | 'Physician managing Hendrix Greyson’s testicular health issues and Kyle Canning’s cancer diagnosis.' |
| '27 September' | 'Dion Rivera' | 'PJ Van Gyen' | 'Bouncer at The Pavilion party involved in altercation with Hendrix Greyson.' |
| '5 October' | 'Greg Cantor' | 'Tony Barea' | "Owner of Lanzini's restaurant providing work experience to Hendrix Greyson." |
External links
- Cast and characters on the official Neighbours site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database