Andrew Robinson (Neighbours)

Andrew Robinson
Occupation	Fictional character
Years active	1991–1992, 2009–2013, 2022
Known for	Neighbours

Andrew Robinson is a fictional persona from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, brought to life by Jordan Patrick Smith between 2009 and 2013, with a brief comeback in 2022. His initial introduction occurred on 13 November 1991, originally portrayed by Shannon Holmes until 1992. The character's history was revised to accommodate Smith’s Scottish accent and to present Andrew as a teenager upon his reappearance. He is the sole offspring of Christina Alessi (Gayle Blakeney) and Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis). Prominent plotlines include his homecoming to Erinsborough, a romantic involvement with Donna Freedman (Margot Robbie), disputes with his stepbrother, and entanglement in a romantic triangle involving Natasha Williams (Valentina Novakovic) and Summer Hoyland (Jordy Lucas). Smith departed from the series in March 2013 but returned for a single episode in 2022.

Creation and casting

Andrew’s birth was depicted onscreen on 13 November 1991, as the child of Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) and Christina Alessi (Gayle Blakeney), with Shannon Holmes portraying him until 1992. After a seventeen-year hiatus, the character was reintroduced in September 2009, this time played by Queensland native Jordan Smith. Smith recounted receiving seventeen missed calls from his agent about the audition shortly after attending a Gold Coast music festival. Although he had little time to prepare, he secured the role two weeks later while recovering from a workplace injury that left his nose swollen and infected—an incident that nearly caused him to turn down the opportunity. His initial scenes were broadcast in December 2009, originally planned as a six-week engagement. In 2011, Smith renewed his contract for an additional two years.

Characterisation

To align with Smith’s Scottish accent, Andrew’s backstory was modified; the character was now depicted as having grown up in Scotland before relocating to Australia during his teenage years. Initially, Andrew and Christina’s history involved moving from Brazil back to Australia, but this was altered to incorporate time spent in Scotland. Smith employs a polished version of his native accent for clarity, with producers supporting this adjustment. Additionally, Andrew’s age was lowered, changing his birthdate from November 1991 to 20 August 1993.

A BBC writer described Andrew as "a delightful little baby" who experienced an unstable early childhood. Upon returning, Andrew’s persona shifted to being cunning and manipulative. Smith described him as self-centered but occasionally revealing a gentler nature. He also pointed out parallels between Andrew and his on-screen father, especially their shared drive for wealth and status, often at others’ expense. Network Ten portrayed Andrew as charismatic and self-assured, possessing the ability to make people feel uniquely appreciated. The character craves his father’s approval and strives to establish himself as a successful businessman. Holy Soap labeled him "a bit of a chip off the old block," consistently eager to secure quick financial gains.

Donna Freedman

Andrew's initial storyline centered around a one-night encounter with Donna Freedman (Margot Robbie) during schoolies week. Donna was experiencing difficulties in her relationship with Ringo Brown (Sam Clark), and following a disagreement at a dance event, Andrew, who works as a club promoter, approaches her. Robbie mentioned that Andrew’s charisma and attractive appearance immediately drew Donna in. After sharing a kiss, Donna ends up spending the night at Andrew’s residence.

Several weeks later, Andrew returns to Erinsborough to visit his father, catching Donna off guard as she worries he might disclose their past liaison. His arrival stirs up tensions on Ramsay Street, particularly affecting Donna’s relationship with Ringo. Andrew pushes Donna to acknowledge their mutual attraction, resulting in another kiss. Robbie described Andrew as a "player" who takes pleasure in the influence he wields over Donna. When Ringo chooses university orientation over supporting Donna’s fashion venture, Andrew seizes the opportunity to reassert his position.

Robbie pointed out that Andrew's involvement in the fashion industry and his entrepreneurial goals align well with Donna’s ambitions. One of their intimate moments is secretly recorded by Andrew onto a disc. This recording is later leaked by school bully Scott Griffin (Eamonn George), publicly revealing their affair and causing embarrassment for Donna. Subsequently, Donna and Ringo become engaged with plans for a swift wedding and relocation to the United States. Andrew predicts the marriage will not last due to possible unfaithfulness. After catching him destroying her travel documents, Donna reacts by slapping Andrew. He then ensures that Ringo witnesses him kissing Donna, further heightening the conflict.

Despite Andrew’s disruptive behavior, Donna suspects he has underlying motives and feels she understands him better than most. She recognizes that his actions stem from a fear of losing her friendship. Ringo responds aggressively by punching Andrew in reaction to his interference.

Natasha Williams

In 2010, Andrew begins a relationship with Natasha Williams (Valentina Novakovic). A few months into their relationship, Natasha questions whether their connection is primarily physical and urges Andrew to improve communication and address each other’s emotional needs. John Burfitt of TV Soap observed that Natasha is heartbroken as "Andrew doesn’t handle this sudden shift very well at all." While Andrew cares for her, he is less committed to the relationship. They briefly separate before reconciling, with Lyn Cameron of The Advertiser describing Natasha as "entirely obsessed" with Andrew.

Early in 2011, a romantic triangle unfolds involving Natasha, Andrew, and Summer Hoyland (Jordy Lucas). Andrew starts developing feelings for Summer but is cautioned against pursuing her by her grandmother, Lyn Scully (Janet Andrewartha). When Summer collapses at a party, Andrew expresses concern—something Natasha notices. She later asks if he loves her but receives no reply. A writer from the official Neighbours website remarked, "Getting involved with Natasha might have been the single most foolish decision he’s made so far, and that’s saying something."

Summer Hoyland

Lucas expressed support for the Summer and Andrew relationship, hoping their romance would develop further. In December 2010, Summer and Andrew finally acknowledge their feelings for each other, just before becoming trapped inside a burning house. The plotline began with Andrew growing envious of Summer’s involvement with his business associate, Tomas Bersky (Tim Munley). Smith explained that Andrew initially believed Summer was out of his league, but Tomas’ presence served as a catalyst for Andrew to act. Andrew deceives Natasha about attending a business meeting to meet Summer; they admit their emotions and share a kiss. Andrew vows to end things with Natasha, and they become intimate just as a fire erupts with both inside. Smith described filming the fire sequences as "great fun," comparing it to shooting an action film. When asked who Andrew should be with, Smith leaned toward Natasha due to their shared traits, suggesting Summer might lose interest once she truly understands Andrew.

When Andrew attempts to break up with Natasha, she reveals she is pregnant—an unexpected announcement that motivates Andrew, who grew up without a father figure, to commit to supporting both her and the child. Smith pointed out that Andrew remains unaware of Natasha’s potential deceit, focusing instead on doing what he believes is right. Later, Summer uncovers Natasha’s falsehood, leaving Andrew emotionally devastated since he had embraced impending fatherhood. Smith remarked this emotional blow deeply affected Andrew and postponed any chance of reconciliation with Summer, who desires change from him while he battles inner turmoil. He expressed hope that the storyline would reach closure so all involved could move on.

Summer eventually tells Andrew they cannot pursue a relationship, feeling the situation would not have arisen if he had not been unfaithful to Natasha. Lucas described the circumstances as complicated, emphasizing that Andrew must address his personal challenges first. Natasha attempts to act as a mediator between them, but conflicts escalate; Andrew accuses Summer of being judgmental. He then kisses Lisa Devine (Sophie Tilson) in front of Summer, leaving her heartbroken. Lucas believed the tension added depth to their storyline.

When Lyn plans to move the family to Bendigo, Summer is heartbroken at the prospect of leaving Andrew behind. As Lyn departs, Andrew professes his love for Summer; she chooses to remain in Erinsborough and they embark on a serious relationship. In January 2012, it was announced they would separate later that year due to increasing pressures and diverging life goals. Lucas anticipated the split being definitive but acknowledged possible future reunions given their strong emotional bond.

After Summer tries to settle a debt owed by Andrew to Paul, he accuses her of "smothering" him. Following discussions about their difficulties, they decide to take some time apart. An Inside Soap columnist speculated it was unlikely Summer wished to rekindle their romance. At Natasha’s party, Andrew meets Belinda Ferry (Rachel Jessica Tan), sparking jealousy in Summer who leaves but returns only to witness Andrew kissing Belinda.

Several months later, Andrew and Summer briefly reconnect for a one-night encounter. Lucas explained that Summer often acts on impulse without weighing consequences and noted that since Andrew was her first true love, he will always hold a significant place in her heart.

Dance event

Following the revelation of Natasha's false pregnancy claim, Andrew redirects his attention to his dance party enterprise. He had previously organized a similar event in 2009, which left him in debt and facing security personnel due to unpaid charges. History threatens to repeat itself when Andrew collaborates with partner Tomas to plan another dance party. Upon uncovering Tomas's engagement in dubious activities at the venue, Andrew encounters an ethical conflict. Although he initially chooses to overlook these concerns, Natasha begins to grow wary. The tension escalates when Summer attends the gathering. Natasha steps in but ultimately contacts her father, who reaches out to Detective Mark Brennan. Confronted with mounting pressure, Andrew acknowledges the gravity of the situation and opts for honesty, informing both law enforcement and his father about Tomas's misconduct.

Accident and epilepsy diagnosis

In August 2012, Andrew becomes involved in a major car accident triggered by a dispute with Natasha over an app he sold without her permission. The collision causes a significant head trauma accompanied by neurological symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and fainting spells. Determined not to show weakness, Andrew initially conceals his condition but seeks medical attention after experiencing a seizure at home. Following examinations by Karl Kennedy, he is diagnosed with epilepsy, which significantly affects his lifestyle. Despite medical recommendations to be open about his diagnosis, Andrew tries to handle it privately, resulting in behavioral shifts and strained interpersonal dynamics. The actor portraying Andrew undertook extensive research on epilepsy to portray the storyline authentically and stressed the importance of seeking professional help.

Exit and comeback

On 26 November 2012, Erin Miller from TV Week revealed that Smith would be departing Neighbours alongside two other cast members. Miller indicated that Smith was keen to explore other acting opportunities. He completed filming his final scenes in December. Kilkelly remarked that the show's writers crafted "heartbreak and triumphs" for the departing characters' story arcs. Executive producer Richard Jasek noted that these exits would leave a lasting impact on Ramsay Street, reflecting the series' evolving community dynamic. Andrew's last appearance aired on 29 March 2013.

On 7 May 2022, Dan Seddon of Digital Spy announced Smith’s return to reprise his role for Neighbours' concluding episodes. He was among twenty-three cast members making a comeback, representing "the most memorable characters" from each decade of the show’s history. Executive producer Jason Herbison emphasized that this approach ensured "something for everyone" as the series drew to a close.

Storylines

Andrew is the sole son of Paul Robinson and Christina Alessi. After initial disagreements regarding his name, they ultimately agreed on Andrew. His early years were marked by family upheaval: Paul's mental breakdown, financial difficulties, and a custody dispute following Paul's affair with Christina’s sister. The family moved multiple times, including stints in Hawaii and Brazil before settling in Sydney.

Andrew organizes a club event during schoolies week where he meets Donna Freedman and begins an affair behind her boyfriend Ringo Brown’s back. He competes with cousin Harry Ramsay for the attention of neighbor Summer Hoyland and clashes with Declan Napier, leading to tension at Lassiter's Hotel. After mistakenly emailing clients that Lassiter's no longer wants their business, Paul threatens to send him back to his mother.

A party goes awry after Andrew posts its details on Facebook, escalating tensions with Summer’s stepmother Stephanie Scully; Rebecca Napier contacts Christina, who refuses to take Andrew back. Attempting to undermine Paul and Rebecca’s relationship, Andrew involves Kyle Canning and leaks financial secrets through Declan.

While working on an advertising campaign for PirateNet, Andrew dates Natasha Williams but ends their relationship following a conflict involving Donna and Ringo. His friend Chris Pappas reveals his feelings for Andrew; they later reconcile.

Andrew uncovers a scheme against Paul at Lassiter's but is overlooked for recognition. After being pushed from the mezzanine level, he becomes a suspect but is eventually cleared. He rekindles his relationship with Natasha despite feelings for Summer; after being trapped together during a fire, their relationships become complicated.

When Natasha falsely claims pregnancy to prevent Andrew from being with Summer, he supports her until the truth is revealed; heartbroken, he turns his focus toward launching a new business venture with Tomas but becomes troubled by Tomas’s drug-related plans at a police-raided party.

Andrew dates Lisa Devine to provoke jealousy in Summer; when Summer plans to move away, he confesses his love for her, prompting her decision to stay. To raise funds during Summer’s absence, he converts their house into a backpacker hostel.

He revives Robinson Entertainment by managing local bands such as Red Cotton and The Right Prescription, securing gigs and residencies to elevate their profiles. Disputes arise with Summer over debts and relationships; Andrew drops Red Cotton after discovering lead singer Griffin’s infidelities.

Andrew develops a mobile odds calculator app with Ed Lee but sells it by forging Natasha’s signature, leading to a crash that injures him and results in an epilepsy diagnosis. Initially secretive about his condition, he eventually informs family and friends while facing challenges balancing work and personal life.

He resumes dating Natasha as they navigate his epilepsy together. Andrew assists Paul with apartment sales at Lassiter's but confronts issues regarding council approval and Sheila Canning’s deposit. When Natasha plans European travel, Andrew joins her despite Paul’s initial disapproval; they depart together.

Nine years later, Andrew and his siblings video call Paul amid business difficulties, confirming that he and Natasha live happily in New York. He suggests Paul along with brothers David and Leo relocate there to reunite the Robinson family.

Reception

Holmes’ portrayal of Andrew was noted by a BBC writer, who humorously remarked that his most significant moment was simply "Being born." Following Andrew's reappearance on Neighbours in 2009, a Holy Soap contributor pointed out a standout scene where he shared an intimate moment with the attractive Donna, despite her relationship with Ringo at the time—an event that ultimately caused Donna and Ringo to part ways. In relation to this plot, Cameron Adams from the Herald Sun commented on Andrew's unique speech pattern, describing it as a blend of Scottish and Australian (ocker) accents.

Andrew became especially popular among female fans, with Smith mentioning that he even received proposals of marriage. A reviewer from The Sun-Herald remarked that Andrew often brings turmoil wherever he goes, labeling him a "Ramsay Street rebel" due to his involvement in affairs, theft, and taking credit for others' achievements. The critic further noted that Andrew’s presence frequently instigates disputes, solidifying his image as a provocateur within the storyline.

External links

• Andrew Robinson on the official Australian Neighbours website
• Andrew Robinson on the official UK Neighbours site
• Andrew Robinson at BBC Online