Chloe Brennan

Chloe Brennan
Occupation	Fictional character
Known for	Neighbours

Chloe Brennan is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, portrayed by April Rose Pengilly. Pengilly landed this role shortly before her intended relocation to Los Angeles, marking her inaugural regular television appearance. Chloe made her first appearance on 27 March 2018, introduced as the sister of the established characters Mark and Aaron Brennan, who had been mentioned previously on the show. She is depicted as "good-hearted," "easygoing," and "joyful," yet faces difficulties with intimacy, shaped by being raised solely by her mother after her parents separated.

Chloe comes to Erinsborough aiming to reconnect with her brothers following their father’s passing. Initial storylines involve a romantic involvement with her employer, Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano), alongside a significant plot addressing Chloe’s diagnosis with Huntington's disease. This storyline provided Pengilly the opportunity to delve deeper into the character and sought to increase public understanding of the illness. Tension arises when Chloe starts an escort agency focusing on platonic companionship, introducing millionaire entrepreneur Pierce Greyson (Tim Robards), who develops a strong attraction toward her.

In late 2018, Chloe’s bisexuality was explored through an unreciprocated affection for Mark’s partner, Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta), while former partner Melissa Lohan (Jacqui Purvis) was introduced to further expand Chloe’s history. Pengilly earned acclaim for this portrayal, including a longlist nod for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent, a nomination for Best Soap Newcomer at the 2018 Digital Spy Reader Awards, and winning Best Daytime Star at the 2021 Inside Soap Awards.

Chloe remained part of the cast until the series concluded on 28 July 2022 and reprised her role for the revival beginning 13 November 2023. Pengilly exited again on 28 December 2023 after Chloe’s marriage to Elly Conway.

Casting

Chloe Brennan is introduced as the sister to established Brennan siblings—Mark (Scott McGregor), Aaron (Matt Wilson), and Tyler (Travis Burns)—who were brought into the storyline between 2010 and 2015. Although referenced multiple times on-screen, Chloe’s arrival was hinted at in July 2017 as part of broadening the Brennan family dynamic. On 1 March 2018, actress and model April Rose Pengilly was officially announced in the role.

Pengilly auditioned using an unspecified script without character background and had initially planned to move to Los Angeles by September 2017. After submitting her audition tape, she was invited to Melbourne for a screen test alongside actors cast as Chloe’s brothers and romantic interest. She won the role over Bonnie Anderson, who was instead cast as Bea Nilsson. Majella Davis also auditioned for Chloe.

To keep her casting confidential, Pengilly altered her hair color to blonde but shared photos with brunette hair on social media, listing Sydney as her location. Neighbours represents Pengilly’s first ongoing television role, necessitating travel between Sydney and Melbourne. She described Chloe as "one of the most enjoyable and intriguing roles" she has undertaken. Executive producer Jason Herbison commended Pengilly’s enthusiasm and welcomed Chloe as a valuable new addition to the series. Pengilly first appeared as Chloe on 27 March 2018.

Characterisation

Pengilly observed that the character of Chloe closely mirrors aspects of her own personality, with certain attributes heightened for dramatic purposes. She described Chloe as a "well-intentioned individual" who occasionally says or does inappropriate things without any malicious intent, comparing her to a puppy that "accidentally gets into trouble." Chloe is depicted as spirited, playful, and generous-hearted. Pengilly emphasized Chloe’s eagerness for enjoyment and connection, stressing that she is not malevolent but seeks to embrace life to the fullest.

According to the official show website, Chloe is portrayed as witty and creatively vibrant, often concealing her insecurities and fear of emotional pain. Her wardrobe reflects a "casual feminine boho chic" aesthetic, akin to actresses Teresa Palmer and Sienna Miller. Pengilly confirmed that Chloe is romantically involved with both men and women, highlighting her open-minded and carefree nature. Struggling with intimacy issues and unresolved "daddy problems," Chloe tends to avoid close emotional bonds. Pengilly expressed hope that Chloe would meet viewers’ expectations following considerable anticipation.

Introduction

Chloe was brought up by her mother in Adelaide after her parents separated when she was in her early teens, maintaining minimal contact with her father and brothers, which left her feeling like an only child. She chose not to attend university and instead took on various jobs such as waitressing, nannying, and working aboard a minor celebrity’s yacht.

Arriving in Erinsborough after Burns’s exit as Tyler Brennan, Chloe returns from an extended gap year abroad. Facing financial difficulties, she aims to mend strained relationships with her brothers Aaron and Mark; however, Mark remains skeptical about her sudden reappearance and potential departure. Pengilly praised the warm rapport shared with co-stars McGregor and Wilson, particularly enjoying scenes filmed within the Brennan household.

Upon arriving, Chloe reconnects with Mark at a local café. Mark’s former partner Elly Conway grows suspicious but confronts Chloe when she is caught rifling through Mark’s wallet. The misunderstanding is resolved once Mark clarifies that Chloe is his sister. Additionally, Chloe stirs conflict with Tyler’s ex-girlfriend Piper Willis by questioning Piper’s intentions to move into Tyler’s room; Aaron ultimately offers his own room to Chloe.

Chloe candidly admits to Elly that she experiments in relationships, which surprises Elly. Aaron warmly welcomes his sister’s presence while Mark remains cautious due to her propensity for attracting trouble. After securing a position as an executive assistant at Lassiters Hotel, it is revealed that Chloe fabricated parts of her résumé. To keep the job, she attempts to seduce Brandon Danker but is interrupted by returning character Jane Harris, who disapproves of their conduct.

Relationship with Leo Tanaka

The writers developed a casual relationship storyline between Chloe and her employer Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano). The plot begins when Leo is instructed by Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) to dismiss Chloe for incompetence after she evicts lawyer Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) from his office. However, Leo opts not to terminate her employment after she resolves the issue and subsequently makes a romantic advance. A Neighbours spokesperson explained that Leo "begins to see there might be more depth to feisty Chloe than initially apparent and attempts to seduce her." Initially, Chloe rejects him to safeguard her position but later returns his affection following a "cryptic" email.

A stunt coordinator ensured all safety measures during Chloe's desk crawl scene, which required numerous rehearsals. Kano described the relationship as a typical rebound for Leo following his recent breakup and noted their strong on-screen chemistry. He also mentioned that some scenes may have been edited due to the early evening broadcast slot. Later remarks from Kano suggested that Leo might develop sincere feelings despite their initially casual involvement; however, their affair risked professional repercussions because Lassiters' policy prohibits staff relationships. He remarked on the excitement of potentially being discovered.

Chloe and Leo are caught kissing by Chloe's mother Fay, who disapproves and reveals she must sell her home to settle Chloe's debts. Despite being blackmailed by Brandon, they continue their secret relationship. Their affair is eventually exposed when they arrive late to Aaron and David Tanaka's (Takaya Honda) engagement party and become trapped in the Backpackers' hostel loft as Terese appears. Both Mark and Leo's father Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) confront them; Paul then demotes Leo for unprofessional conduct. Leo proposes continuing their relationship openly, but Chloe declines, stating it was merely enjoyable while kept secret.

Huntington's disease diagnosis

In August 2018, Chloe received a diagnosis of Huntington's disease after participating in genetic testing as part of a compensation claim. She postponed learning the results due to apprehension about receiving unfavorable news. Dr. Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) confirmed that she had inherited the condition, which leads to progressive deterioration of brain cells. The revelation left Chloe shocked and overwhelmed, particularly worried about the implications for her mother and brothers.

April Rose Pengilly, the actress portraying Chloe, was initially unfamiliar with Huntington's disease but appreciated the opportunity to raise awareness through this storyline. She worked closely with the scriptwriters and conducted research to ensure an authentic and respectful depiction. Chloe chose to keep her diagnosis private until after Aaron and David’s wedding, concerned it might detract from their special day. Karl encouraged her to share the news with her family so they could undergo testing, emphasizing the genetic risks involved. Pengilly enjoyed collaborating with Fletcher and exploring a more serious facet of her character, though she also valued Chloe’s lighter, comedic moments.

After learning of her condition, Chloe experienced emotional turmoil, taking a sick day and engaging in heavy drinking with friends, which culminated in her arrest for stealing a street sign. Her brother Mark secured her release and reminded her that she had taken money intended for their mother’s groceries. To make amends, Chloe set up a games room at Lassiters to earn tips. In November 2018, she disclosed her diagnosis to her siblings following Aaron and David’s plans to conceive using Aaron’s sperm. Chloe cautioned that both Mark and Aaron might carry the gene; Mark opted for immediate testing while Aaron declined.

Escort business

In response to her Huntington's diagnosis, Chloe established Cash4Company, a service offering paid companionship to men. Pengilly explained to Inside Soap that Chloe saw this venture as a way to repay her mother while providing platonic company to lonely clients, creating mutual benefits financially and socially. The storyline begins with Chloe accepting a $300 lunch date from affluent widower Orion Ibraheim, recognizing an opportunity to improve her financial situation. Orion’s acquaintance Harrison Keller later requests a date, which causes friction with Mark, who disapproves of Chloe charging men for companionship. Mark investigates Harrison’s background and disrupts the date upon discovering Harrison is married; however, Chloe was already aware and confronts Mark for his interference. Pengilly described Mark as acting like "the disapproving father figure."

Chloe’s enterprise also strains relations with neighbor Dipi Rebecchi after Dipi finds out her husband Shane has used Chloe’s services. Pengilly clarified that Shane’s intention was to gather information about a client for professional reasons, but when Dipi confronts them both, misunderstandings escalate. Both Pengilly and Johal objected to the original script which depicted a "cat fight" where Dipi slut-shames Chloe; they revised the dialogue to place responsibility on Shane instead. Pengilly later criticized this scene for unfairly singling out Chloe while excusing Shane’s behavior.

The revelation of Cash4Company alarms Paul, who worries about potential damage to Lassiters’ reputation and advocates for Chloe’s termination. However, Chloe uncovers that Leo and Terese are secretly involved romantically and uses this knowledge to blackmail them into supporting her continued employment. Pengilly observed that Chloe’s frustration stems from Terese’s earlier criticism of her business alongside perceived double standards regarding their own clandestine relationship. Additionally, Chloe faces an uncomfortable proposition when a mother offers payment for her to take her son’s virginity on his 21st birthday.

Pierce Greyson

The producers brought in the affluent entrepreneur Pierce Greyson (Tim Robards) as a new character intersecting with Chloe’s narrative, portraying him as a charismatic businessman finalizing a deal with the Lassiters group. Upon discovering Chloe’s enterprise, Pierce becomes one of her clients, initially concealing his identity. Their working relationship gradually deepens into a personal connection, complicated by Chloe’s hesitation due to her Huntington’s diagnosis and apprehensions about a lasting relationship.

During the organization of a wine tasting event for Pierce, the two share a private moment that leads to ambiguity when Pierce later sends gifts, implying he viewed their encounter as more transactional than romantic. Chloe opts to prioritize her brother Tyler’s upcoming release rather than advancing their relationship. Pengilly highlighted that Chloe was firm about avoiding serious involvement, with Pierce initially agreeing.

Pierce also becomes entangled in Terese’s bid to wrest control of Lassiters from Paul, siding with her while secretly maintaining his focus on Chloe. His gesture of giving Chloe a ring heightens her feelings of being overwhelmed. Robards explained that Pierce sees Chloe’s business as both a challenge and an opportunity to explore his genuine affection for her. Although Chloe wishes to terminate their relationship, she fears that doing so might cause Pierce to withdraw from the takeover attempt, which he ultimately confirms.

Their storyline reaches its conclusion during a business trip at a ski resort where Pierce avoids discussing the Lassiters acquisition, leaving Chloe feeling cornered. After revealing her Huntington’s condition in an effort to push him away, Pierce pledges his support, prompting Chloe to flee their cabin. She contemplates leaving the country but is convinced by Elly to remain and concentrate on mending family relationships.

Crush on Elly Conway

In late 2018, the writers delved into Chloe’s bisexuality through an ongoing narrative of unreciprocated affection as she develops feelings for Elly, her friend and Mark's partner. Following Elly’s loss of her teaching position, she confides in Chloe about her difficulties. To lift Elly’s spirits, Chloe organizes a casual afternoon together where they exchange emotions, culminating in Chloe kissing Elly. Anasta described the kiss as "unexpected" and "awkward," considering Elly’s relationship with Mark. She supported Elly’s choice not to disclose the kiss to Mark, aiming to protect both Chloe and their family dynamics.

Pengilly observed that the kiss was consistent with Chloe's impulsive tendencies and noted that while her bisexuality had been subtly suggested earlier, it had not been fully explored. The storyline was carefully designed so that Chloe’s sexuality would neither define her character nor be exploited. After the kiss, Elly wishes to address it openly, but Chloe prefers to move past it even as her feelings intensify. Soon after, Elly and Mark become engaged, leaving Chloe feeling "heartbroken." At their engagement celebration, a drunken Chloe reveals her Huntington’s diagnosis during a toast and openly declares her love for Elly.

Chloe later sends Elly a Christmas card expressing her emotions. Although Elly is "moved," she remains devoted to Mark. Their connection grows stronger following a siege at a local café, leading Aaron to encourage Chloe to be honest about her feelings; she admits she is in love with Elly. Pengilly described this moment as bittersweet—close yet emotionally distant—and revealed she had originally proposed an Elly-Chloe pairing upon joining the show, though it was initially rejected.

The introduction of Chloe's former girlfriend Melissa "Mel" Lohan (Jacqui Purvis) provided further insight into her past. Aaron invites Mel to Erinsborough to offer support for Chloe but soon regrets this decision after their mother Fay warns that Mel's presence might destabilize Chloe. Aaron also causes frustration by attempting to monitor Chloe’s interactions with Elly. Conflict arises between Chloe and Mel when Mel abandons Chloe in a "dangerous situation," though Mel apologizes and is forgiven. In an effort to suppress her feelings for Elly, Chloe kisses Mel during Elly's hen night; upon returning home early, Elly discovers them together. Despite attempts by Chloe and Mel to rekindle their relationship, Pengilly confirmed this reunion is "too good to be true," as Mel ultimately betrays Chloe once more.

Storylines

Chloe returns to Erinsborough aiming to rebuild connections with her brothers, Aaron and Mark, after spending several years overseas. Facing financial difficulties, she is determined to mend their strained family ties. Initial conflicts emerge when Mark’s former partner, Elly Conway, suspects Chloe of theft but soon discovers she is actually Mark’s sister. Chloe also experiences friction with Piper Willis regarding living arrangements, whereas Aaron warmly welcomes her back.

Several months on, Chloe receives a diagnosis of Huntington's disease following genetic testing conducted in the United States. She discloses her condition to her family when Aaron and David plan to conceive a child using Aaron’s sperm. Mark tests positive for the gene mutation; however, Aaron opts not to undergo testing. In response to these developments, Chloe launches Cash4Company, a paid dating service that generates tension with neighbors and Lassiters management. After uncovering Leo and Terese’s relationship, she blackmails them to secure her employment.

Pierce becomes one of Chloe’s clients, and their professional interaction gradually transforms into a romantic involvement despite initial reservations. Due to Chloe’s health concerns, they swiftly become engaged and marry at Pierce’s vineyard, followed by a family celebration in Adelaide. The couple debates parenthood; after unsuccessful fostering attempts, Chloe discovers she is expecting. Prenatal screening indicates a low risk for Huntington's disease, encouraging them to continue with the pregnancy.

Nicolette moves in as Faye’s live-in nurse, triggering jealousy and tension between her and Pierce, who subsequently engages in an affair with Dipi Rebecchi. Once the affair comes to light, Chloe separates from Pierce and moves in with Aaron and David. Although initially upset by Nicolette planting evidence of the affair against Pierce, Chloe reconciles with her and begins dating Nicolette, despite concerns expressed by family members given Chloe’s pregnancy.

Pierce cautions Chloe about Nicolette’s motives and the rapid pace of their relationship. Leo re-enters the scene by offering Chloe work at a vineyard to keep an eye on her circumstances. Nicolette proposes near the lake; despite some hesitation, Chloe accepts. At their engagement party, Chloe becomes overwhelmed by Nicolette’s discussions about having children. Following a misunderstanding involving Leo that causes Nicolette to flee while pregnant, Chloe takes a leave from work and encounters workplace challenges upon returning.

Chloe supports her friend Kyle through fears related to cancer and invites Mckenzie, Freya, and Kiri to stay with her. She briefly dates Kiri but ends the relationship due to lack of chemistry. Deciding to move closer to family members, Chloe plans to sell her house and relocate to Adelaide. A reunion with Elly results in an invitation to Sydney for a new position at Lassiters Sydney.

Two years later, Chloe returns to Erinsborough to assist with managing Lassiters amid changes in leadership. Her Huntington's symptoms worsen; Elly joins her offering support while proposing marriage. They marry at the pavilion before departing on a honeymoon financed by Paul Robinson.

Reception

Pengilly’s inclusion on the longlist for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent sparked debate because she had appeared in only four episodes before voting closed. TV Week remarked that networks submit candidates they believe are deserving. Subsequently, Pengilly was nominated for Best Soap Newcomer at the 2018 Digital Spy Reader Awards, finishing sixth with 5.9% of votes cast. She was also longlisted for Best Daytime Star at the 2019 Inside Soap Awards and ultimately won this award in 2021.

Inside Soap's Sarah Ellis characterized Chloe as a "wild child" who quickly stirred up drama on Ramsay Street. Claire Crick from Soaplife emphasized the disruptive influence Chloe would have on Mark and Aaron’s lives due to her tendency to "rub people up the wrong way." Pengilly acknowledged strong audience support and expressed gratitude for their acceptance.

A Tenplay article questioned whether Chloe was "A Bit Wild, Or Psycho?" highlighting her bohemian appearance and unpredictable behavior. Huntington's Victoria commended Neighbours for raising awareness about Huntington's disease through Chloe’s storyline.

At the close of 2018, Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy named Pengilly among "soap's rising stars," praising Chloe as both entertaining and vulnerable—particularly following her Huntington's diagnosis—and anticipated more engaging plots ahead.

Regarding the relationship between Chloe and Elly, Katie Baillie of Metro noted their compelling on-screen chemistry with fans coining the portmanteau "Chelly." This couple gained popularity across social media platforms. In 2021, Chloe ranked sixth in a fan poll listing top Neighbours characters on "Back To The Bay." In 2022, critic Sheena McGinley from the Irish Independent named Chloe as the second most iconic character, applauding her bisexual representation and terminal illness storyline as significant challenges undertaken by Pengilly. McGinley also praised Chloe’s complete character arc—from escort to entrepreneur—calling her "the full package."

External links

• Chloe Brennan on Tenplay