Elly Conway

Elly Conway
Other names	Brennan
Occupation	Fictional character
Known for	Neighbours

Eleanor "Elly" Conway (also known as Brennan) is a fictional persona from the Australian soap series Neighbours, portrayed by Jodi Gordon. The character first appeared with Kendell Nunn in the role from 13 December 2001 until May 2002. Elly was introduced as the teenage niece of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), establishing important familial ties within the narrative. She was portrayed as headstrong and rebellious, with early plots centered on her distant father Ian Conway and a storyline where she was deceived into thinking Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy was her biological dad.

The character was brought back on 18 July 2016, this time played by Gordon. Elly returned as a bold and unpredictable English teacher who hid her vulnerabilities behind a confident exterior. Her initial story arcs involved clashes with student Piper Willis and Stephanie Scully over flirtations with Steph’s partner Mark Brennan. Subsequent narratives explored a miscarriage caused by a snake bite and a fluctuating romance with Ned Willis. Her housemate, Angus Beaumont-Hannay, developed an obsessive infatuation, leading to events that nearly jeopardized her career and living situation. The arrival of ex-boyfriend Finn Kelly in 2017 further delved into her past.

In January 2020, Gordon revealed she would be leaving the show, filming her final scenes in April; Elly’s concluding episode aired on 10 July 2020. Gordon returned to reprise the role for the series finale in 2022 and made another comeback in November 2023. On 28 December 2023, Gordon departed again following Elly’s marriage to Chloe Brennan.

Casting

On 22 November 2001, Kylie Miller of The Age announced that Kendell Nunn had joined Neighbours as Elly, alongside Blair McDonough who played Stuart Parker. Nunn was discovered by a modeling scout in August 2000, with this role marking her debut on television. She managed filming commitments while completing her final year of secondary school. Producer Peter Dodds described Elly as Susan Kennedy’s "rebellious niece" (Jackie Woodburne). Nunn’s first appearance as Elly aired on 13 December 2001.

Introduction and early storylines

Elly is presented as the teenage daughter of Susan Kennedy’s sister, Liz Conway (Christine Keogh). Producer Peter Dodds noted that Elly’s arrival coincided with her cousin Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) going into labor. Prior to coming to Ramsay Street, Elly had been expelled from school for cannabis use. Nunn characterized Elly as a defiant teenager who initially harbors resentment toward Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) due to his absence as a father figure and feels displaced living in Ramsay Street. The official Neighbours website described her as an intelligent, perceptive, and somewhat rebellious adolescent. She forms friendships with cousin Darcy Tyler (Mark Raffety) and neighbor Michelle Scully (Kate Keltie).

Early plots show Elly staying out late and challenging Karl and Susan’s household rules—a behavior Nunn attributed to her mother’s leniency. Believing her stay to be temporary until her mother returns or retrieves her, Elly resists forming close bonds with her aunt and uncle. This strain leads Karl to insist she either adheres to his rules or leaves, underscoring their ongoing clash rooted in Elly’s lack of male guidance.

Subsequently, Elly searches for her estranged father. Although Karl contacts Ian Conway (Peter Maver) to assist, Elly arranges their meeting herself. Ian informs her he is not her father but claims that Karl is, alleging an affair with Liz resulted in Elly’s birth. Despite initial shock, Elly contemplates this possibility given Karl’s history of infidelity but eventually discovers Ian is indeed her biological father.

Reintroduction

On 28 April 2016, Jonathon Moran from The Daily Telegraph announced that Jodi Anasta would be reprising her role as Elly Conway on Neighbours. Anasta expressed excitement about her return, although she found memorizing the scripts demanding. Due to family commitments, she stayed based in Sydney and initially agreed to a three-year contract. Elly made her comeback appearance on 18 July 2016. According to the character's history, Elly had been living in Bondi and frequently visited her mother in Sweden. She had trained as a schoolteacher and arrived in Erinsborough to work alongside Susan. Anasta described Elly as someone who had experienced the typical rebellious phase of early adulthood.

Anasta portrayed Elly as lively, spirited, and unpredictable—a "free spirit" with a caring nature beneath the surface. Elly often conceals her insecurities by projecting a confident exterior and tends to prioritize socializing over her professional responsibilities. Compared to Anasta’s former portrayal of Martha MacKenzie in Home and Away, Elly is depicted as more troublesome, manipulative, and vindictive. Nevertheless, she is an exceptionally talented yet unconventional English teacher.

Elly’s return coincides with the high school formal event, where she immediately clashes with Piper Willis over Tyler Brennan. After Piper discovers that Elly is her new English teacher and responds by throwing a drink at her, their relationship rapidly deteriorates. Additionally, Elly flirts with Mark Brennan, causing friction with Stephanie Scully. Although she enjoys spending time with the Brennan brothers, Elly has no intention of pursuing a deeper relationship with Mark and eventually develops friendships instead.

Elly takes up residence with Karl and Susan on Ramsay Street. Anasta praised the mother-daughter dynamic between Elly and Susan despite Susan’s disapproval of some of Elly’s decisions. The contrast in their teaching approaches adds complexity to their interactions. Anasta also hinted at revealing aspects of Elly’s troubled history and personal challenges as the storyline progresses. She anticipated a transformative summer ahead for Elly, marked by both fractured and strengthened relationships.

Snake bite and miscarriage

Anasta previewed that Elly’s initial major storyline would involve a sudden, impactful tragedy connected to her past, providing audiences with greater insight into her character. Soon after returning, while protecting Nell Rebecchi (Scarlett Anderson) on Ramsay Street, Elly suffers a venomous tiger snake bite. Although she has upset several characters previously, this courageous act highlights her underlying kindness and bravery. Anasta enjoyed the experience of working alongside a real snake during filming.

Elly is rushed to the hospital in critical condition; Karl discovers she is pregnant but warns that the antidote necessary to save her life could endanger the unborn child. Faced with no alternative, Elly receives the antidote but subsequently experiences anaphylactic shock that results in a miscarriage. Once Susan understands what Elly has endured, she offers her support during this difficult time.

Connection with Ned Willis

Anasta hinted at a forthcoming romantic storyline for Elly involving a familiar face. In August, Elly encounters Ned Willis (Ben Hall), and their relationship quickly progresses into dating. At first, Elly adopts a "playing hard to get" approach, which leads Ned to ask someone else out. This prompts Elly to take a more determined stance in pursuing him. When Elly finds a strand of blonde hair in Ned's wallet, she suspects his previous interest Lauren Turner (Kate Kendall).

Hall described their initial connection as fueled by lust and instability but suggested it could develop into something more lasting, though it began with Ned wanting to move past Lauren. He portrayed their romance as intense and passionate, marked by dramatic moments but underpinned by genuine care expressed through their disagreements.

Although they appeared an unlikely pair, Hall felt they balanced each other well. After Ned ends the relationship to shield Elly from danger, she encounters a mysterious individual at The Waterhole, later revealed as Jacka Hills (Brad McMurray), who is involved in a revenge scheme targeting Ned’s ex-partner. Ned steps in before departing town.

While briefly reunited during Hall's third guest appearance, the writers chose to conclude their relationship before his exit. Elly opts for a period of independence and singleness, a decision Ned respects, recognizing their timing was off.

Angus Beaumont-Hannay's infatuation

Upon the September return of teenage character Angus Beaumont-Hannay (Jai Waetford), a new plotline unfolds centered on his crush on Elly. After moving into the Kennedy household, Angus shows clear interest in Elly despite cautionary advice from her cousin Ben Kirk (Felix Mallard). Angus’s pursuit creates friction between Elly and Ned. While Elly senses Angus’s feelings, she underestimates their depth. Anasta commented that while Elly is aware of some attraction, she does not grasp how intense it really is. At a school Halloween dance, Angus’s overt serenading of Elly reveals his infatuation is nearly obsessive.

Feeling uneasy about his attention, Elly falls asleep after returning home early and dreams about kissing Mark Brennan. When Angus kisses her, she initially mistakes him for Mark and reciprocates before realizing the truth, leaving her feeling "violated." She keeps the incident secret from Susan but confides in her friend Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano), who confronts Angus, leaving him "mortified."

Weeks later, Elly warns Angus about associating with a negative crowd. After rescuing a heavily intoxicated Angus from a city bar, she conceals the event from Karl and Susan to protect him. Anasta described this as "Elly’s biggest mistake," suggesting that being honest might have prevented further complications and safeguarded both her job and living situation.

The introduction of Elly’s ex-boyfriend Derek Meeps (Scott Tweedie) ignites jealousy in Angus. Despite his efforts, Elly reconnects with Derek but is left "deeply upset" following his abrupt departure. Angus offers support and kisses Elly again but is caught by Susan. Doubting his motives, Susan reports the matter to the education board and insists that Elly leave the house.

The arc concludes with Angus leaving after police question him about his behavior toward Elly. She decides not to press charges once he admits fault and promises to reform.

Conflict with Finn Kelly

In March 2017, producers brought back Elly’s ex-boyfriend, Finn Kelly (Rob Mills). Prior to his arrival, it was disclosed that Elly had once attempted to run him down with her car. Anasta revealed that following their breakup, Elly deliberately drove toward Finn without applying the brakes. Unbeknownst to Elly, Finn had been married throughout their relationship. Anasta characterized him as "the ultimate charmer and heartbreaker," and his return to Erinsborough High provided deeper insight into Elly’s history and the manipulation she suffered.

Elly tries to compel Finn to resign from his teaching position, but Susan counsels her to maintain professionalism. Realizing no one will believe her claims about Finn’s darker nature, Elly confronts him publicly at the Back Lane Bar when she refuses to forgive him, causing a scene. Subsequently, Finn assumes Elly’s tutoring responsibilities and disrupts Ben’s career ambitions. After an incident at the bar is shared online, Elly suspects Finn is attempting to isolate her. During a heated confrontation witnessed by Xanthe, Elly pushes Finn down a flight of stairs.

The former couple briefly patch things up when Finn uses his charm on Elly; however, he exploits the relationship to undermine Susan’s role as principal and aims to take over her position. Mills explained that while Finn desires Elly’s trust, he is delusional and incapable of honesty. Despite genuinely loving Elly, his brain aneurysm warps his perception of reality and morality.

Finn's narrative intensifies as he tampers with Susan's multiple sclerosis medication, resulting in her hospitalization and his appointment as acting principal. He coerces Xanthe into silence but flees the country with her once exposed. After his aneurysm bursts, Finn's decline continues as he falsely accuses Elly of attempting to smother him.

Exit and subsequent returns

In May 2018, Anasta renewed her contract for another year, expressing confidence in balancing her role alongside commuting between Melbourne and Sydney where her daughter resides. She noted that Elly’s storylines were growing more compelling.

On 21 January 2020, Anasta announced she would be leaving Neighbours to return to Sydney for family commitments and new professional ventures. She felt Elly’s arc had naturally concluded after exploring its full depth. Filming for her departure commenced soon after, with Anasta expressing gratitude for her four years on the series and enthusiasm for Elly’s impactful exit storyline.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced an early Easter hiatus in March 2020, affecting the emotional delivery of Elly’s farewell scenes. Anasta returned to Melbourne in April to finalize filming with script adjustments ensuring a fitting send-off. Elly’s departure aired on 10 July 2020 as she relocated to Switzerland seeking a fresh start.

On 7 May 2022, it was revealed that Anasta would reprise her role for Neighbours' concluding episodes following the show’s cancellation. Selected among the “most memorable characters” from each decade, Elly returned in July 2022 delivering an unexpected proposal and reconnecting with key figures. In May 2023, it was confirmed that Anasta would return once more alongside April Rose Pengilly for the series revival.

Storylines

2001–2002

Elly arrives in Ramsay Street under police escort after her mother Liz Conway asks sister Susan to care for her during a six-month trip to Sweden. She quickly bonds with cousin Darcy Tyler but struggles with Susan's husband Karl. Initially believing her stay will be brief, Elly is devastated upon learning otherwise. Instead of a flight ticket to Stockholm, she receives a credit card and attempts to leave but is stopped by Susan. Despite a rocky start involving Michelle Scully's boyfriend Zack Shaw, Elly befriends Michelle by standing up for her, which strains relations with Karl and Susan.

Though planning to move out at sixteen, Elly changes course after hearing Lyn Scully speak about family importance. She saves Darcy during a cardiac episode and gains work experience at the surgery. Following a brief romance with Tad Reeves, Karl and Susan investigate Elly's paternity; Ian Conway initially claims he might be the father but Liz later admits Ian is indeed Elly's father after previously lying. When Liz returns pregnant yet neglectful—forgetting Elly's birthday—she invites Elly to Sweden; choosing to give her mother another chance, Elly leaves with her.

2016–2023

After fourteen years away, Elly returns as an English teacher during the high school formal event. She flirts with Mark and Tyler Brennan inciting jealousy from Piper Willis who throws a drink on her and later files a complaint after being insulted by Elly. Susan places Elly on probation after discovering unfair grading against Piper; Elly undergoes counseling and issues an apology.

Elly dates Ned Willis but their relationship faces challenges due to issues involving his ex Regan Davis. Angus Beamont-Hannay develops feelings for Elly and kisses her while she sleeps; she keeps this secret but clarifies no relationship can develop. A complicated encounter with ex-boyfriend Derek Meeps ends badly when he reveals engagement plans elsewhere. After another kiss from Angus is discovered by Susan—leading to a report filed against Elly—Angus apologizes before leaving town.

With Ned returning for his father’s wedding they reconcile briefly but Ned is arrested for arson. During this period, Elly admits deliberately driving at a man during a confrontation. Finn Kelly joins Erinsborough High as a teacher; initially asking him to leave, Elly briefly reconciles with him before his crimes are unveiled. She then acknowledges feelings for Mark and begins dating him but ends things upon learning friend Paige Smith also loves him. Their friendship suffers further when Paige reunites with Mark; after Paige departs, Mark kisses Elly but she declines being used as a rebound.

Elly dates Liam Barnett but ends it to protect friendship with Amy Williams. She reconnects with younger sister Bea Nilsson encouraging her job application at the local garage and defending Bea against Mark’s accusations regarding invoice errors. When Bea’s car is stolen and involved in a hit-and-run incident leading to Elly’s arrest—though she denies driving—Finn Kelly reveals himself as responsible; he traps them in a shipping container before being pushed off a cliff by Susan.

Chloe Brennan confides in Elly about dating businessman Pierce Greyson and Huntington's disease diagnosis. Jane Harris becomes acting principal clashing quickly with Elly who is eventually fired due to low enrolment numbers. Chloe offers comfort leading them to share a kiss; during Mark’s test results wait, Elly proposes which he accepts. At their engagement party Chloe confesses love for Elly but later retracts; after surviving a hostage situation together Chloe moves closer while Mel Lohan arrives causing tension.

Following Sonya Rebecchi’s cancer diagnosis and passing, Mark withdraws from Elly cancelling their wedding via text message. Chloe supports Elly; they kiss and become intimate before Mark returns apologetic proposing again. They marry but during the reception Elly admits infidelity with Chloe prompting Mark to seek annulment. A false positive pregnancy test causes strain; after a one-night stand with Shaun Watkins results in pregnancy Mark apologizes and they resume intimacy.

Shaun Watkins blackmails Elly over baby paternity; she faces challenges including student Dean Mahoney’s blackmail and Finn Kelly’s parole violations leading to suspension from teaching duties. After placental abruption caused by assault at school she reveals Shaun is father moving back in with Kennedys. Despite reconciliation efforts Mark files annulment papers; Shaun departs ending their relationship.

Elly rekindles friendship with Chloe dating briefly before Chloe ends it citing health concerns from Huntington's progression. After falling while pregnant but confirming baby safety she attends birthing classes accompanied by Aaron Brennan and David Tanaka friends. Shaun supports through hospitalizations legal challenges over custody documents sharing romantic moments before Mark leaves Erinsborough.

Shaun disappears presumed dead in avalanche; Finn Kelly emotionally supports Elly leading to closeness despite family warnings. During hostage crisis Finn helps deliver baby Aster Conway; Susan confronts their bond causing tension as Finn's past unfolds further.

On her 35th birthday at Pierce’s island Finn deceives about Bea's location before kidnapping Aster pushing Elly into mineshaft amid escalating violence culminating in Finn drowning during attempted murder cover-up by Elly who faces voluntary manslaughter charges aggravated by Claudia Watkins' blackmail resulting in three-year sentence aimed at gaining Aster custody.

While incarcerated, Elly befriends Andrea Somers who later betrays her; surviving riots fights orchestrated by Andrea she is released when Claudia's blackmail is exposed reuniting with Aster Shaun recently rescued struggling socially post-release beginning relationship with Shaun who proposes relocating Switzerland seeking fresh start away from Erinsborough.

Two years later after breaking up Shaun in Sydney Elly returns seeking reconciliation Chloe who remains hesitant about future together attending Toadfish Rebecchi wedding alongside Bea Chloe kisses confirming renewed relationship before moving Sydney together.

Later Chloe temporarily returns managing Lassiters revealing Huntington symptoms worsening fearing burdening Elly or Aster offering exit which rejected proposing marriage instead accepted proceeding wedding plans amid family tensions involving Liz neglecting Aster Susan providing childcare support as couple marry surrounded family departing honeymoon.

Reception

Prior to debuting, Kylie Miller of The Age described Elly as "likeable delinquent," while Cameron Adams from the Herald Sun labeled her "a precocious teenage upstart." Michael Idato of The Sydney Morning Herald critiqued Nunn's debut performance on Neighbours as "underwhelming," noting it overshadowed McDonough's introduction in the same episode and described the character as "a hybrid of brazen-hussy-troublemaker and dumped-by-a-disinterested-mum" typical soap archetypes. A Liverpool Echo journalist warned readers "Stand well back – Elly is about to fly off the handle," whereas Roz Laws of the Sunday Mercury called her "a troublesome teen." The BBC highlighted one of her earliest notable moments as "asking Karl if he was her real father."

Upon reintroduction, a critic from The Advertiser referred to Elly as a classic Neighbours vixen making an impact especially involving the Brennan brothers. Clare Rigden of the Herald Sun praised Anasta's debut episode portraying Erinsborough High's new English teacher who immediately stirred drama. When bitten by a snake Phillip Portman of the Daily Star remarked "Only on Neighbours can someone arrive in Ramsay Street then fight for their life within a week," also dubbing her "promiscuous." A contributor from TV Week observed that introducing Elly onto Ramsay Street "hasn't been smooth." Another critic from The Advertiser noted fans enjoyed Jodi Anasta's transformation from Summer Bay golden girl into Ramsay Street vixen. Kate MacCarthy of the Radio Times wondered if Elly and Ned could be "the cutest new couple in Ramsay Street," while Sarah Ellis of Inside Soap emphasized their shared mischievous traits. The school Halloween dance was described as "aptly horrific for Elly" by a Liverpool Echo reporter.

When departing in 2020 Joe Julians of the Radio Times summarized her return marked by ongoing dramatic plots noting she was no longer permitted teaching yet joked she might not have suited it anyway listing seven memorable moments: snake bite arrival letting Angus get too close key interactions with Finn Kelly romances with Mark Chloe giving birth while held hostage plus brief prison term.

External links

• Official profile: Elly Conway at Neighbours website