JJ Varga-Murphy

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia, United Kingdom (previously)
Products	Soap opera

Neighbours is an Australian soap opera broadcast on both Amazon Freevee and Network 10 within Australia. The show resumed its 39th season with Episode 8904 airing on 18 September 2023, marking a return after a 14-month break following the exit of UK broadcaster Channel 5. The Varga-Murphy family—consisting of JJ (played by Riley Bryant), Cara (Sara West), Remi (Naomi Rukavina), and Dex (Marley Williams)—joined the series alongside Reece Sinclair (Mischa Barton) and Haz Devkar (Shiv Palekar) in the premiere episode. Two episodes later, Haz’s dog, Trevor (Bodhi), made his first appearance. In October, Eden Shaw (Costa D'Angelo) was introduced, followed by Reece’s half-sister, Krista Sinclair (Majella Davis), arriving in November.

JJ Varga-Murphy

JJ Varga-Murphy, portrayed by Riley Bryant, was introduced on 18 September 2023 as a member of the newly formed Varga-Murphy family. This family unit includes parents Cara (Sara West) and Remi (Naomi Rukavina), as well as JJ’s brother, Dex (Marley Williams). Rukavina remarked on the strong connection shared by the family both on-screen and off, while West emphasized their significance in representing LGBTQIA+ identities. Executive producer Jason Herbison highlighted that the Varga-Murphys would introduce "many new stories to tell."

JJ’s narrative centers around his quest to discover his biological father. According to West, during a family vacation to Ramsay Street, JJ begins to suspect that his real father might live locally rather than being an American sperm donor as Cara had previously stated.

The family moves to Ramsay Street after JJ suggests renting 24 Ramsay Street. Upon arrival, JJ encounters Nell Rebecchi (Ayisha Salem-Towner), Sadie Rodwell (Emerald Chan), and her father, Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will). JJ later reveals to Dex that his recommendation to move to Ramsay Street stems from a belief that Andrew Rodwell could be his biological father.

Cara Varga-Murphy

Cara Varga-Murphy, played by Sara West, made her debut on 18 September 2023. Announced on 22 June 2023, Cara is a key figure within the newly introduced Varga-Murphy family alongside her wife Remi (Naomi Rukavina) and their children JJ (Riley Bryant) and Dex (Marley Williams). West expressed pride in joining the cast and stressed the importance of portraying a lesbian couple to authentically represent the LGBTQIA+ community. She characterized Cara as fiercely devoted to her family with intentions that are always well-meaning. Executive producer Jason Herbison remarked that unveiling a new family was an appropriate development for this fresh phase of Neighbours.

Laura Jane Turner and Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy recognized the Varga-Murphys among the top 16 LGBTQ+ television moments of the year, praising their influence in evolving perceptions of rainbow families and their potential to become beloved Ramsay Street residents.

Remi Varga-Murphy

Remi Varga-Murphy, portrayed by Naomi Rukavina, made her first appearance on 18 September 2023. She was introduced alongside her wife Cara and their children JJ and Dex. Professionally, Remi works as a doctor. Rukavina commended Neighbours for its genuine depiction of diverse family structures without resorting to tokenism and described the filming process as fulfilling, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the family. Executive producer Jason Herbison confirmed that the introduction of a new family was well aligned with the show's relaunch strategy.

Upon settling in Ramsay Street, Remi quickly became involved in the community by helping neighbour Mary Ryan (Carissa McPherson) during a choking emergency and formally introduced herself to Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) as a nurse. Observing Cara’s difficulties in finding work, Remi successfully convinced Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) to employ Cara at Lassiters Hotel.

Dex Varga-Murphy

Dexter "Dex" Varga-Murphy, played by Marley Williams, also debuted on 18 September 2023. His casting, along with the rest of the Varga-Murphy family, was announced on 22 June 2023. This role marked Williams’ first television appearance. Dex is part of the newly introduced Varga-Murphy family unit, which includes parents Cara (Sara West), Remi (Naomi Rukavina), and his brother JJ (Riley Bryant). West emphasized the family’s representation of the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community, while Rukavina highlighted their close familial ties. Executive producer Jason Herbison expressed excitement about the Varga-Murphys, anticipating they would bring "many new stories to explore."

Reece Sinclair

Reece Sinclair, portrayed by Mischa Barton, appeared for the first time on 18 September 2023. Barton’s casting was revealed on 17 April 2023 as the initial new character following the series’ revival. Reece is an American whose arrival in Erinsborough is shrouded in mystery. Barton shared her enthusiasm about joining this iconic show and tackling such a dynamic role. Executive producer Jason Herbison described Reece as "dynamic and unpredictable," confident she would appeal to audiences worldwide. Although Barton had not previously watched the series, she knew of it through Kylie Minogue and felt this part suited her well. Reece’s initial guest stint lasted ten weeks, concluding on 23 November, with social media hints pointing to a possible return.

Haz Devkar

Hari "Haz" Devkar, played by Shiv Palekar, debuted on 18 September 2023. His casting was announced on 7 June 2023 via official show social media channels. Haz was introduced as the new manager of Harold's Café and is accompanied by his dog named Trevor (Bodie). Residing at Number 32 Ramsay Street, Haz shares his home with established characters Mackenzie Hargreaves (Georgie Stone) and Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux). The trio have been housemates for three months after Haz moved from Geelong. Palekar mentioned that Haz sought a shared living arrangement, although how they originally met remains unclear. Molyneux pointed out their contrasting professional lives, while Stone remarked on their positive dynamic.

The writers positioned Haz as a potential romantic interest for Mackenzie, who is widowed following her husband Hendrix Greyson's passing two years prior. Stone described their developing relationship as thrilling and cited working with Palekar as one of her favorite experiences. In Ramsay Street Revelations, Stone characterized Mackenzie’s romantic journey as a significant milestone, portraying their early interactions as a "will they? won’t they?" scenario. She praised Haz for his kindness, authenticity, humor, playfulness, and grounded personality—traits that resonate with Mackenzie given her past experiences. Palekar commented that Haz holds "ultimate respect and admiration" for Mackenzie, valuing honesty, fairness, and doing good deeds—qualities he deeply appreciates even at personal cost.

The storyline explores relationship complexities; Mackenzie forms a bond with Eden Shaw (Costa D'Angelo), while Haz’s focus on his dog Trevor creates friction with Billie Alessio (Georgia Walters).

Trevor

Trevor, brought to life by Bodhi, made his first appearance on 20 September 2023 as the pet dog of Haz Devkar (played by Shiv Palekar). The character was announced on 3 August 2023 through the official Neighbours X account, continuing the series' longstanding inclusion of canine companions. Bodhi is a Groodle—a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle—provided by the animal talent agency "Paws on Film" and trained by Luke Hura, who has also worked with other notable on-screen animals such as Bouncer. Lauren Sellwood contributed as the animal wrangler during scenes involving Trevor. Haz describes Trevor as an "adorable" yet unruly presence who consistently "steals every scene."

In 2024, the storyline expanded to introduce Trevor’s original owner, Alyssa Gavalas (portrayed by Imogen Sage). While Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux) is walking Trevor, Alyssa recognizes him and reveals his initial name was Bodie. She attempts to reconnect with her lost dog, which causes Haz to worry about losing Trevor and seek legal counsel.

Trevor’s narrative centers on his role as Haz’s rescue dog, frequently causing disruptions at Harold's Café despite health regulations. His anxiety manifests in destructive conduct that complicates Haz’s personal life, including breakups with Billie Alessio (Georgia Walters) and Holly Hoyland (Lucinda Armstrong Hall). When Alyssa requests contact information to reclaim Trevor, Haz is hesitant but consents after meeting her son. Although Trevor briefly returns to Alyssa, he ultimately comes back to Haz due to signs of homesickness, leading the Gavalas family to decide on permanently relinquishing him.

Eden Shaw

Eden Shaw, enacted by Costa D'Angelo, was introduced on 16 October 2023 as a potential romantic partner for Mackenzie Hargreaves (Georgie Stone). First appearing at The Waterhole under the name "Ed," Eden quickly forms a romantic connection with Mackenzie. His true identity is later disclosed as Eden, the troubled former boyfriend of Holly Hoyland (Lucinda Armstrong Hall), whose difficult breakup had been mentioned previously. D'Angelo characterized Eden as a "troubled figure" bringing intense drama, while Armstrong Hall noted that Eden treated Holly poorly.

OK! Magazine described Eden as a "bad boy," emphasizing his pivotal role during the show's flashback week, which explores events occurring during the series' hiatus. Armstrong Hall explained that Eden and Holly met in the UK and traveled together to Australia with plans to meet her parents Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) and Izzy Hoyland (Natalie Bassingthwaighte). However, due to family conflicts, they postponed this introduction and instead went backpacking with Krista Sinclair (Majella Davis). Over more than a year, Eden, Holly, and Krista developed a close friendship that ended painfully when Holly discovered Eden had been intimate with Krista.

After forming a bond with Mackenzie and gaining employment at Yorokobi Winery, Eden becomes involved in conflict by stealing rings and bags from Mackenzie and her friends. When confronted by Holly and Haz Devkar (Shiv Palekar), Eden reacts aggressively—locking Holly inside a shed, assaulting Haz, and fleeing the scene. Subsequently, he knocks out Nell Rebecchi (Ayisha Salem-Towner) at Melanie Pearson's (Lucinda Cowden) residence, leading to a police investigation. Holly is shocked to discover Eden was responsible for Nell’s injury.

Further backstory reveals Eden cheated on Holly with Krista. After Melanie pushed Krista into a pool causing injury, Eden coerced Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) into concealing the incident. Krista survived but remained under Eden’s control until Holly and friends located her at an abandoned estate; this led to Eden’s arrest.

Following his release from prison, Eden confronts Krista and her partner Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano), revealing knowledge of her pregnancy. A violent altercation ensues involving Leo and David Tanaka (Takaya Honda), resulting in David suffering a fatal fall while attempting to save Eden. Though Eden survives surgery, he refuses to disclose how he found Krista. Paul later admits he informed Eden about Krista's pregnancy and intentions, indirectly contributing to David's death. Weakened from surgery, Eden escapes from hospital custody and takes Melanie hostage with a scalpel, triggering a police standoff. Toadie Rebecchi intervenes by subduing Eden, rescuing Melanie, after which Eden is re-arrested.

Krista Sinclair

Krista Sinclair, played by Majella Davis, made her first appearance on 13 November 2023 as the half-sibling of Reece Sinclair (Mischa Barton). Her arrival was tied to a mystery plotline, with Barton revealing that Reece had come to Erinsborough in search of Krista. After an apparent on-screen death on 21 November, it was officially confirmed that Davis would continue portraying Krista under a one-year contract. From 27 November 2023, Davis was included in the show's opening credits. Prior to securing this role, she had auditioned unsuccessfully for characters such as Chloe Brennan and Nicolette Stone. For her portrayal of Krista, Davis earned a longlist nomination for "Best Daytime Star" at the 2024 Inside Soap Awards.

Krista maintains friendships with Holly Hoyland (Lucinda Armstrong Hall) and Eden Shaw (Costa D'Angelo), with their dynamics explored during a special flashback week designed to reveal narratives from the period when Neighbours was off the air. Armstrong Hall described their friendship as a youthful adventure involving a road trip. Over the course of a year, Krista and Holly develop a strong connection, while Krista’s romantic involvement with Eden introduces a major betrayal storyline. On 12 November 2023, Amazon Freevee released a trailer featuring Reece’s quest to find Krista, confirming their relationship through a shared photograph.

In the digital series Ramsay Street Revelations, Davis characterized Krista as lively, fun-loving, and quirky, embodying a party-centric personality. She only became aware of her familial link to Barton's character after noticing their common surname. Reluctant to engage in the "family business," Krista relocates to Ramsay Street to avoid these responsibilities. Davis suggested that Krista’s narrative arc would involve significant trials and opportunities for redemption.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Details
21 September	Mary Ryan	Carissa McPherson	Assisted by Remi Varga-Murphy and Karl Kennedy after choking incident at The Waterhole.
2 October 2023–12 March 2024	Billie Alessio	Georgia Walters	Begins dating Haz Devkar after connecting through a dating app; relationship ends due to issues involving dog loyalty. Later disqualified from Lassiters Lie-In contest for spiking Haz's food with laxatives.
12 October 2023–3 January 2024	Noah Dawes	Zane Ciarma	Acts as a school bully targeting Dex Varga-Murphy; receives suspension for harassment. Present at New Year's Eve party where principal Jane Harris addresses underage drinking.
12 October	Pete Dawes	Gabriel Egan	Father of Noah; disputes school suspension and threatens to limit attendance.
	Monique Fallon	Lily Mooney	Spotted by Reece Sinclair from afar.
18 October	Sandy Phillips	Juliana Begue	Lassiters Hotel housekeeper responsible for managing lost property alongside Katrina Marshall.
23 October	Garrett Wilkins	Scott Reid	Participates in tour of Erinsborough High School.
	Antonia Hammond	Katie Weston	Also attends Erinsborough High School tour.
	James Douglas	Andy Steuart	Architect inspecting Erinsborough High School as potential development site.
23 October 2023–12 December 2024	Tess Carmichael	Anica Calida	Oversees Sinclair group, principal investors in Lassiters; monitors Reece Sinclair’s activities and pressures her regarding family connections; later conspires with Heath Royce in defrauding Krista Sinclair and Lassiters. Following exposure of the scheme, Tess is arrested and assumes responsibility for the fraud.
25 October	Tina Marin	Paris Valentino	Employee at Lassiters Dayspa who provides guest details to Reece Sinclair; initially dismissed but rehired due to political influence exerted by her father Anthony Marin.
25 October 2023-27 March 2024	Penny Shrewster	Jessica Husband	Lassiters staff member who creates disturbances, is terminated, attempts theft, and may have endangered Krista Sinclair via sabotage.
1-15 November 2023, 21 November 2024-	Hudson Greene	Nikita Chronis	Mechanic at Fitzgerald Motors; sells vehicle previously owned by Krista Sinclair; retained as manager following business acquisition; mentors apprentice Max Ramsay.
1 November	Theo Kaloudis	Lawrence Hawkins	Student at Erinsborough High who sells Reece Sinclair a car once belonging to her missing sister Krista.
9 November	Ted Munce	David Simes	Receptionist at backpackers' hostel who fails to recognize photo of Krista Sinclair.
16 November 2023, 30 September-4 December 2024	Senior Sergeant Tony Thompson	Damien Aylward	Police officer involved in investigating Krista Sinclair’s presumed death; oversees armed siege at The Waterhole; disciplines Andrew Rodwell; assists Krista in locating a friend.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Details

|- ! scope="row" rowspan="2"| 20 November |- | Gillian Byrne | Sally Cheng | Councillor attending proposal for merging school with aged care facility. | |- | Anthony Marin | Gregory Caine | Conservative councillor bribed by Paul Robinson to back council proposal in exchange for reinstatement of his daughter Tina's employment. | |- ! scope="row"| | Neil Martello | Steven Oktaras | Security personnel hired by Terese Willis for Erinsborough High; involved in removing protesters; accidentally injures Melanie Pearson. | |- ! scope="row"| | Tamara Daine | Jodie Dry | Former client of Byron Stone’s escort service; attempts to re-engage him but is discouraged due to his recent breakup. | |- |}

External links

• Official Neighbours site: Characters and cast