Naomi Canning

Naomi Canning
Occupation	Fictional character
Known for	Neighbours

Naomi Canning is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, brought to life by actress Morgana O'Reilly. She was introduced as the daughter of the established character Sheila Canning (Colette Mann), with her role designed to delve deeper into Sheila’s backstory. After competing against five other actresses, O'Reilly secured the role and relocated to Melbourne to begin filming in November 2013. Naomi made her first appearance on 25 March 2014 and exited the series on 2 October 2015 when O'Reilly chose to explore other acting opportunities. She later returned to reprise the character in 2020, remaining until the show concluded on 28 July 2022.

Naomi is portrayed as a spoiled, refined, eccentric, yet compassionate individual. O'Reilly collaborated closely with producers and the wardrobe department to develop Naomi’s bold and "quite sexual" aesthetic. Initial plotlines focused on her attempt to mend the rift with her mother caused by Naomi’s involvement with a married man. Subsequently, she stirs up drama by developing feelings for Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) and capitalizes on existing marital discord. Naomi also engages in a casual romance with her younger neighbor, Josh Willis (Harley Bonner). Later story arcs pair her romantically with Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor) and Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), leading to an engagement with Paul. Critics responded positively to Naomi’s character and narrative, describing her as "the best new character of the last few years" and "a breath of fresh air."

Creation and casting

In October 2013, Colette Mann, who portrays Sheila Canning, disclosed that her character’s daughter would be introduced as a means to further explore Sheila’s personal history. The producers intended to create a character reminiscent of Izzy Hoyland (Natalie Bassingthwaighte)—someone who would provoke strong reactions among both characters within the show and its audience. Mann mentioned that casting was underway and the character would be arriving in the following year. On 30 December 2013, it was revealed that New Zealand actress Morgana O'Reilly had been cast as Naomi.

O'Reilly underwent two rounds of auditions: initially recording a self-tape from Sydney alongside her husband, followed by an in-person audition in Melbourne with Mann and Stefan Dennis (Paul Robinson). After competing with five other actresses, O'Reilly sensed that this role was destined for her, noting that Naomi shares both her grandmother’s name and her own middle name. She expressed admiration for the character’s layered nature and began filming in November 2013, with Naomi’s debut airing on 25 March 2014.

Following her casting, O'Reilly and her husband moved to Melbourne. Although initially offered a three-year contract, she successfully negotiated it down to an 18-month commitment, which was accepted by the producers.

Characterisation

Prior to Naomi’s introduction, O'Reilly described her as "a lot of fun" but harboring secrets she would fiercely guard from her mother. While Naomi possesses a "good heart," her methods can sometimes be "questionable" when chasing after what she wants. O'Reilly likened her to a cat who enjoys "the finer things in life," blending sassiness, resilience, and elegance passed down from Sheila. Despite being spoiled and occasionally self-absorbed, Naomi ultimately shows kindness and warmth. O'Reilly suggested that Naomi might evolve into someone viewers "love to hate."

In shaping Naomi’s distinctive look—bold, sensual yet tasteful—O'Reilly collaborated extensively with producers and stylists to reflect the character’s desire to move beyond a less reputable past. This image is conveyed through choices like towering six-inch heels and revealing tops. Although O'Reilly found Naomi less rational than herself, she relished portraying a personality so distinct from her own. Executive producer Jason Herbison remarked that Naomi embodies a classic troublemaker archetype long absent from Neighbours, concealing deep insecurities beneath a provocative façade.

Initial plotlines

Naomi’s early narrative focuses on her unexpected reappearance in Erinsborough and the attempt to mend ties with her distant mother Sheila (Mann), following a five-year estrangement caused by Naomi’s affair with a married man that Sheila revealed. She also reconnects with her nephew Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan). Sheila approaches Naomi’s sudden comeback with suspicion, especially after discovering a SIM card filled with enigmatic messages, leading her to accuse Naomi of repeating old errors. A heated dispute nearly drives Naomi to leave, but Sheila begrudgingly offers her accommodation.

Soon after, Naomi sells a valuable painting to Paul Robinson (Dennis) as a means to settle outstanding debts. The piece was originally a gift from Charles Tranner (David Whiteley), the married man involved in Naomi’s affair. Polly (Michelle O'Grady), Charles’s wife, claims ownership since the artwork was purchased using family funds. This disagreement escalates into a physical confrontation between Polly and Naomi, which is interrupted by police who seize the painting. Unable to repay Paul, Naomi is propositioned to spend the night with him to clear the debt—a suggestion she finds unamusing yet somewhat admires for its audacity.

Toadfish Rebecchi

Prior to Naomi’s introduction, Daniel Kilkelly of Digital Spy revealed that her character would challenge an established relationship by pursuing a married man. Ryan Moloney, portraying Toadfish Rebecchi, hinted that his character might be tempted by another woman, later confirmed as Naomi developing feelings for Toadie. The storyline unfolds when Toadie hires Naomi as his personal assistant at his legal practice. Despite Naomi efficiently managing the office, Toadie’s wife, Sonya (Eve Morey), remains wary even though Naomi assists with a business matter. Naomi persuades Toadie that Sonya would be a hindrance during an important client meeting and ensures Sonya is otherwise engaged at that time. Observing her daughter’s "close" interactions with Toadie, Sheila accuses Naomi of attempting to seduce a married man. In response, Naomi organizes a romantic evening for Toadie and Sonya while dining with Paul to mislead Sheila.

Naomi employs an internet dating platform to create distance between Sonya and Toadie. She arranges a date for Sonya with a compatible match and invites both Sonya and Toadie for support. The date culminates in an argument with Sonya, leading Toadie to comfort Naomi. When Sonya is away, Naomi takes advantage of the situation by inviting herself to Toadie’s home where they watch DVDs. Moloney described this as beginning innocently but escalating when they start wrestling; Naomi pins and kisses Toadie. Embarrassed, Toadie realizes he lacks genuine feelings for Naomi. After Sheila exposes Naomi’s seduction attempts, Toadie feels "deceived" and "completely betrayed."

Sonya returns enraged at Naomi for threatening her marriage. During their confrontation, Naomi provokes Sonya by blaming her marital issues on her actions, prompting Sonya to impulsively slap Naomi. Morey admitted feeling uneasy filming the scene but found Sonya’s later apology and warning to keep away from her family "gratifying." O'Reilly acknowledged ongoing tension between the two women but expressed hope for future friendship and more shared screen time. She also concurred that Sonya was justified in trusting Toadie despite the difficult experience for Naomi.

When Toadie takes on a demanding case, Naomi realizes she still harbors feelings for him. After Sheila denounces his character, Naomi confesses her love but resigns from the firm and temporarily leaves Erinsborough on her mother’s advice to distract herself. This hiatus accommodated O'Reilly’s two-month break to perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Upon returning, Georgia Brooks (Saskia Hampele) discovers that Naomi was in Melbourne rather than Hawaii; meanwhile, Toadie accuses her of sending malicious letters to Sonya, which Naomi denies.

Casual relationship with Josh Willis

Naomi engages in a casual romance with her younger neighbour, Josh Willis (Harley Bonner). Alison Gardner from What's on TV observed that both characters were recovering from past relationships—Naomi moving on from her feelings for Toadie, and Josh healing after breaking up with Amber Turner (Jenna Rosenow). O'Reilly viewed this dynamic as beneficial for both, explaining that Naomi enjoys the attention, albeit superficially. She told Mark James Lowe of All About Soap that the relationship developed spontaneously and likened Naomi’s life to "a really trashy novel." After noticing Josh’s interest, Naomi decides to "take the bull by the horns and go for it!"

O'Reilly mentioned that filming their intimate hotel elevator scene was enjoyable because of Bonner’s comedic nature. Naomi attempts to keep the fling hidden from her mother to safeguard their relationship while she rebuilds her life. The relationship concludes when Josh's mother, Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou), discovers them together and confronts Naomi. O'Reilly believed Naomi and Josh shared "similar energies," but felt he was too young for her. She expressed a desire for Naomi to pursue someone "completely different," such as a "rough-and-tumble guy" or a more dangerous type.

Brother and career change

In November 2014, Naomi reconnects with her older brother, Gary Canning (Damien Richardson), who extends his stay in Erinsborough to mend fences with Sheila and Kyle. Naomi challenges Gary about his past actions and his abandonment of their family. When Kyle’s tools go missing, Naomi suspects Gary, and after Sheila uncovers Gary’s violent background, she suffers a heart attack. Naomi rushes her mother to the hospital and discloses Gary’s criminal history to Kyle.

Seeking new employment, Naomi starts her own event planning business, beginning with organizing the local Christmas carols at Lassiter's Complex. She encounters obstacles when the "Santa Union" refuses to provide performers, leading her to enlist assistance from her mother and neighbour, Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne). The event faces further jeopardy due to insurance concerns raised by a council official but ultimately goes ahead successfully. Following this, Naomi sets her sights on coordinating the Erinsborough Festival.

Local entrepreneur Dennis Dimato (David Serafin) offers sponsorship; however, after Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor) warns of Dimato’s dubious background, Naomi and Paul decline the offer. Dimato later attempts to bribe Naomi; despite Brennan's advice to report him, she returns the money instead. Brennan confronts Dimato, who then threatens Naomi for speaking out. Confident in handling matters herself, Naomi resists Brennan’s attempts to intervene.

Later, Matt Turner (Josef Brown) enlists Naomi’s help in building a police case against Dimato. Although ongoing threats target both her and Sheila, Naomi initially withdraws her statement under pressure but eventually resubmits it following Sheila’s insistence.

Mark Brennan and Paul Robinson

Naomi's friendship with Mark Brennan evolves into romance as they grow closer during the Dimato ordeal. Initially unaware of Brennan's feelings, Naomi approached the relationship cautiously, unsure about commitment. During a yoga class, they flirted and shared a kiss. Wanting to proceed carefully due to fear of emotional pain, Naomi soon became officially involved with Brennan despite lingering insecurities. Her anxiety grows when she witnesses Brennan interacting with his ex-girlfriend Paige Smith and questions his intentions.

As their relationship develops, Naomi is appointed as executive assistant to Paul Robinson and learns confidentially about his leukemia diagnosis. She supports Paul through his illness while maintaining a professional yet sometimes tense working rapport. While caring for Paul at home, her mother worries this might strain Naomi’s relationship with Brennan; Paul defends their connection.

When chemotherapy proves ineffective, Paul becomes emotionally vulnerable with Naomi, culminating in a tender kiss. Recognizing her true feelings for Paul, Naomi ends things with Brennan.

Naomi and Paul begin dating but encounter early difficulties when she contacts his estranged daughter Amy Williams without informing him first. Despite public disputes, Naomi refuses to apologize and threatens to resign from both job and relationship; Paul later apologizes after bonding with Amy. Their relationship is further tested by Paul's involvement in crimes related to Naomi’s brother and doubts about her feelings for Toadie following an accident.

Naomi admires Toadie as a good man compared to Paul, who promises self-improvement and eventually proposes marriage. The proposal surprises Naomi due to their brief courtship; she feels "duty bound" to accept but immediately harbors reservations. When Paul wishes to publicize their engagement for political gain as mayoral candidate, Naomi asks him to keep it private.

Their relationship ends after Naomi has a one-night stand with Josh. Although Paul suggests reconciliation, Naomi declines; he responds by telling her she will never amount to anything.

Departure

In 2015, when O'Reilly became pregnant, the production cleverly concealed her pregnancy on screen using carefully placed props. After parting ways with Paul, Naomi landed a coveted position in the United States and left Erinsborough following heartfelt farewells with family and friends. The day after her final episode aired, it was announced that O'Reilly had permanently exited Neighbours to explore new professional avenues following motherhood. Executive Herbison remarked that the series kept the possibility open for Naomi’s return, underscoring the character’s strong appeal among viewers.

O'Reilly expressed appreciation for the audience's support and reflected on Naomi as a spirited character with a layered history who connected well with fans. She regarded Naomi’s departure as a positive redemption storyline, emphasizing the character’s development in establishing authentic friendships and career autonomy. Naomi’s new job symbolizes her achieving independence, stepping into a leadership role rather than remaining an assistant. O'Reilly also commended her fellow cast members Mann, Milligan, McGregor, Bonner, Dennis, Morey, and Moloney, describing her experience on the show as "rewarding," and noting that the fast-paced environment sharpened her professional abilities and preparedness for screen work.

Returns

It was confirmed on 27 April 2020 that O'Reilly would return to portray Naomi once again, with her character making a comeback on 7 May to support her mother following Gary’s passing. O'Reilly explained that Naomi, struggling with difficulties in Los Angeles, interprets Kyle’s concern for Sheila as a reason to come back to Erinsborough. Her goal is to reconnect with family while confronting past issues and demonstrating personal growth.

At first, Sheila is thrilled by Naomi’s arrival but soon understands that Naomi is there to help her move forward. Naomi also senses friction between Sheila and Susan and instigates a reconciliation by locking them together in the Willis household to encourage dialogue. It was revealed that Naomi shares a "tumultuous history" with series regular Pierce Greyson, with unresolved feelings lingering between them.

O'Reilly made a brief appearance as Naomi in the show’s finale on 28 July 2022 through a video message congratulating Toadie on his marriage to Melanie Pearson.

Reception

Naomi garnered largely favorable reviews from critics. Prior to her debut, Rebecca Lake of TV Week described her as a "sexy character" and an intriguing "new vixen," while Kilkelly anticipated she would "cause disruption." Some commentators pointed out imperfections; Ben Pobjie from The Sydney Morning Herald criticized Naomi for behaving "foolishly" during one plotline, and What's on TV labeled her "Naughty Naomi," referencing an infamous slap from Sonya after Naomi kissed Toadie. Co-star Eve Morey characterized Naomi as a "femme fatale," emphasizing her opportunistic traits.

Bridget Jones from New Idea portrayed Naomi as "kind-hearted beneath it all," while Michael Cregan of Inside Soap admired her flirtatious nature and found her storyline with Josh particularly "spicy." Stephen Downie of TV Week recognized the temporary nature of the Josh-Naomi relationship but enjoyed it nonetheless. Claire Crick from All About Soap praised their chemistry despite their contrasting personalities. O'Reilly admitted she initially worried about how audiences would receive Naomi but was ultimately pleased by the positive responses.

Ethan Sills of The Spin Off hailed Naomi as "one of the finest characters introduced in recent years," commending O'Reilly’s portrayal and regretting her departure in 2015. Kerry Barrett from All About Soap ranked Naomi 29th among favorite characters, noting how quickly she made an impact with memorable moments like "getting intimate with Josh in a lift." A journalist from The New Zealand Herald described Naomi as "business-minded, commanding attention, assertive," always confident about what she wanted. Laura Denby of Radio Times called Naomi’s cameo in the 2022 finale "a treat" due to her enduring popularity.

A columnist from Soap World identified Naomi as potentially the best new character introduced recently, highlighting her controversial cougar/cub relationship with Josh as sparking lively fan debate. The conflict with her mother was praised for its dramatic intensity; however, the columnist found Naomi’s pursuit of Toadie less compelling for someone portrayed as a "husband-stealing minx." Kilkelly applauded O'Reilly’s addition for pushing boundaries more boldly than many other characters on the show.

Following her short return in 2022, Denby reaffirmed Naomi’s status as a fan favorite and welcomed her brief reappearance.

External links

• Naomi Canning on the Official AU Neighbours site
• Naomi Canning on the Official UK Neighbours platform