Paige Smith
Paige Carpenter-Smith | |
|---|---|
| Born | Paige Carpenter-Smith |
| Other names | Paige Novak |
| Occupation | Fictional character |
| Years active | 2014–2018, 2020, 2022 |
| Known for | Neighbours |
| Notable work | Role of Paige Carpenter-Smith in Neighbours |
Paige Carpenter-Smith (also known as Novak) is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, portrayed by Olympia Valance. Valance secured the role in February 2014 following an extensive audition process, with series producer Jason Herbison describing her as "the ideal choice" for the character. Prior to acting, Valance had a successful modeling career, making Paige her first acting role. She is the half-sister of former cast member Holly Valance. Initially signed on for a three-year period, Valance made her debut on 2 June 2014. She completed filming her final scenes in November 2017, with Paige’s exit broadcast on 30 March 2018. Valance reprised her role for the show’s 35th anniversary episode on 24 February 2020 and returned once more for the concluding episodes in July 2022.
Paige is depicted as "feisty," "resilient," and resourceful, often concealing a gentler nature beneath a "tough exterior." Introduced as the biological daughter of Brad Willis (Kip Gamblin) and Lauren Carpenter (Kate Kendall), her initial story arcs centered on establishing connections with her parents and half-siblings. At first, Paige kept her true identity hidden due to fears of rejection. Subsequently, she entered into a relationship with her housemate Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor) and became entangled in blackmail involving illicit car parts alongside Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns). The character was well-received by critics for her unique presence, and Valance earned a nomination for Most Popular New Talent at the 2015 Logie Awards.
Casting
On 9 March 2014, Colin Vickery of news.com.au announced that Olympia Valance had joined the cast of Neighbours portraying Paige Novak. Before being cast in February, Valance was an accomplished model who won the role after undergoing a demanding audition process that included several callbacks. She expressed excitement at securing the part, noting that working on Neighbours is regarded as one of the premier jobs in Australia. Among the first people she told was her half-sister, Holly Valance, who had previously appeared on the series. Collaborating with cast members familiar with her sister helped Valance feel at ease during filming.
Series producer Jason Herbison confirmed that Valance was "the perfect match for Paige," and she initially signed a three-year contract. Her first appearance as Paige aired on 2 June 2014. In December of that year, Valance revealed plans to leave the show upon completion of her contract to explore opportunities in London. However, in October 2016, she extended her contract by an additional six to eight months, expressing enthusiasm about continuing in the role and appreciation for the producers’ desire to keep her.
Backstory and characterisation
Within her fictional history, Paige endured "a difficult childhood" with her adoptive parents and often felt eclipsed by her brother Ethan. After finishing boarding school, she became independent by taking on various jobs. Valance described Paige as "stylish and alluring," possessing numerous layers that she hoped would engage viewers. She also characterized Paige as "fiery," "unpredictable," "humorous," and "empathetic," emphasizing her ingenuity and a "tough exterior" that masks a more vulnerable side. The official Neighbours website portrayed Paige as "strong-willed" and "volatile," noting her dedication to work alongside a passion for partying and skateboarding. Valance identified with Paige’s complicated family background, being one of eight half-siblings herself.
Family
Paige discovered that her birth parents, Brad Willis (Kip Gamblin) and Lauren Carpenter (Kate Kendall), were actively looking for her after Brad's meeting with Ethan in Adelaide. Relieved yet inquisitive, Paige followed them to Erinsborough, assuming the name Novak and inventing a Tasmanian background. Unaware of their true relation, she flirted with Josh Willis (Harley Bonner), her half-brother, which caused tension with his girlfriend Amber Turner (Jenna Rosenow). Paige found employment as a waitress at Lauren’s café and joined Brad’s gym to get closer to him, growing fond of her father despite skepticism from Brad’s wife Terese (Rebekah Elmaloglou) and half-sister Imogen Willis (Ariel Kaplan). Conversely, she formed a strong connection with her younger half-brother Bailey Turner (Calen Mackenzie). Valance highlighted Paige’s anxiety about being rejected by her biological family.
Paige’s grandmother, Kathy Carpenter (Tina Bursill), uncovered Paige’s true identity after hiring a private investigator. This led to a confrontation resulting in Kathy’s car accident, which Paige helped address. Feeling overwhelmed by the situation, Paige briefly left town but was found by Lauren, culminating in an emotional reunion with Brad. While some siblings, such as Amber, responded unfavorably, others gradually embraced Paige despite lingering tensions related to her past dishonesty revealed through a personal sketchbook.
Initially, Terese and Matt Turner were reluctant to accept Paige as part of the family; Matt even arrested her after she vandalized Harold’s Store out of frustration over concealing her identity. Despite this difficult beginning, relationships improved over time, with Terese eventually welcoming Paige into the family fold and possibly mentoring her in the future.
Relationship with Mark Brennan
Paige became the new housemate of Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor) on Ramsay Street, setting the stage for a romantic storyline in 2014. Their bond deepened beyond mere friendship as Paige expressed clear attraction toward Mark. Their relationship started with playful rivalry but faced obstacles due to Mark’s unresolved grief over his late fiancée, Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer).
Mark initially found it hard to move forward and distanced himself from Paige after their first date, causing strain before they finally consummated their relationship. Their initial official date ended abruptly when Paige wore Kate’s dress, provoking an angry response from Mark. Misunderstandings intensified when Mark witnessed Paige kissing another man; McGregor commented on their differing maturity levels and life stages as potential barriers.
Paige was hurt upon seeing Mark kiss Dakota Davies (Sheree Murphy), but Mark clarified he was undercover investigating Dakota. Their communication breakdown led to a breakup. Later, Mark rejected Paige’s confession of love—her first profound romantic experience—even as he began dating Naomi Canning (Morgana O'Reilly), while Paige remained hopeful.
In 2015, Mark acknowledged lingering feelings for Paige but held back because she was involved with his brother Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns). After Tyler and Paige parted ways, she attempted to kiss Mark, who pulled away. Valance supported their reunion, emphasizing their strong chemistry and fan appeal. They ultimately reunited following a stalking incident that sparked an emotional moment culminating in a kiss.
Mark and Paige became engaged after Paige proposed spontaneously. Valance described the engagement as unexpected; though initially unsure about marriage, Paige grew enthusiastic during the wedding preparations, enjoying choosing her dress and styling.
However, before the wedding, Paige was framed for multiple robberies and feared Mark would uncover her secret. On their wedding day, Mark publicly arrested her after discovering the truth about the stolen goods, ending their relationship due to broken trust.
Tyler Brennan and Employment under Michelle Kim
Tyler, Mark's younger sibling, shifted his romantic interest to Paige after realizing Imogen did not share his feelings. At first, Paige was reluctant to be considered a fallback option but eventually consented. Tyler suspected Paige might be using him as a means to retaliate against Mark; however, she reassured him of her sincere intentions. They shared a kiss, though Paige inadvertently uttered Mark’s name, revealing unresolved emotions. They chose to stay friends, yet their mutual attraction intensified, resulting in another kiss. Valance commented that Tyler and Paige were "very similar" but complemented each other positively.
When Bailey stole a vehicle from the garage's vicinity, Paige reported the incident and informed Tyler. Michelle Kim overheard their conversation and demanded they either pay her $8,000 or commit another theft. Paige uncovered that Tyler was employed by businessman Dennis Dimato, dismantling stolen cars for parts. Michelle coerced Paige using footage of Bailey’s theft, forcing her into selling stolen components at the garage. To conceal their illegal dealings, Paige and Tyler pretended to be in a relationship and raised funds through a bikini car wash event. Tyler made a romantic gesture which Paige initially declined but later reconsidered—only to discover that Tyler had moved on with a customer. Valance suggested that Paige was better matched with Mark, needing someone more mature.
Paige and Tyler attempted to legitimize the garage business but remained involved with Dimato’s criminal operations when his nephew Joey left them money and Michelle instructed a drop-off. They concealed the cash in an old well during a nearby fundraiser but became trapped together, leading to an emotional exchange where they confessed their feelings yet agreed to stay friends. Subsequently, $6,000 went missing from the money bag and Tyler was assaulted. Nate Kinski offered financial assistance, which frustrated Paige due to the growing web of deception and poor communication.
By the end of the year, Michelle approached Mark for help, claiming she could guide authorities to Dimato. Paige was doubtful because of past betrayals but felt sympathy when Michelle disclosed her troubled history and recent conversion to faith. Despite Mark’s cautions about Michelle’s manipulative nature, Paige met with her and was soon kidnapped and locked inside a car boot. Valance described this experience as terrifying for Paige; she managed to escape by incapacitating her captor but was then struck by a speeding vehicle and left unconscious.
Weeks afterward, Michelle requested Paige’s assistance, alleging abuse by Dimato. Valance described Michelle as "a persuasive victim," which led Paige to help by organizing a SIM card and flat lease under her name despite Mark’s warnings. Paige’s empathy impaired her judgment; when she discovered stolen items in the flat during an argument, Michelle confessed she sought revenge for her imprisonment. Paul Robinson advised Paige to quickly dispose of the goods; she attempted this but nearly got caught by Mark. Upon trying to retrieve them later, she found they had disappeared. Mark and Detective Ellen Crabb found Paige’s fingerprints on the stolen items along with incriminating messages on a second phone, prompting plans for further questioning.
Departure
In early 2017, Valance shared with Holly Byrnes of the Herald Sun that although she was eager to explore acting roles in London or Los Angeles, departing from Neighbours was a challenging decision. She expressed, "Many do not receive such an opportunity, so I consider myself very fortunate and grateful. Letting go for an uncertain future ... will be tough because I have cherished the cast and crew." Valance requested that her character not be written off permanently, enabling potential future guest spots. On 1 December 2017, it was announced she had completed filming her final scenes and was leaving to seek new international roles. Her stepfather Ross Wilson, who made a cameo that same week, confirmed her plans to relocate to Los Angeles in January 2018. Paige’s departure storyline aired in March 2018.
Returns
On 24 November 2019, it was revealed that Valance would reprise her role for the show's 35th anniversary festivities. Executive producer Jason Herbison invited her back, and she agreed once she learned McGregor would also return. Paige re-entered the series on 24 February 2020 alongside Jack, with plots focusing on their tumultuous relationship and eventual separation. She later reconciled with Mark, culminating in their wedding—one of five nuptials featured during the anniversary. Valance described this event as "the happy ending we always envisioned for Paige and Mark" and expressed excitement about the storyline.
On 4 May 2022, Zoe Thomaidou of Neos Kosmos reported that Valance would once again return as Paige for the final episodes of the show. Reflecting on her experience, Valance stated: "Neighbours has always felt like home. It was my first acting role and taught me so much. There’s a reason why it’s regarded as the premier training ground globally." Herbison welcomed her comeback, noting that Paige’s assertiveness would "disrupt the status quo." The character reappeared during episodes aired on 20 July in the UK and 25 July in Australia, returning alongside Chloe Brennan to assist with selling Number 24.
Storylines
After uncovering her birth parents—Lauren Turner and Brad Willis—Paige follows them to Erinsborough, taking a job as a waitress at Lauren’s café while residing with Mark Brennan. Initially concealing her true identity to build relationships, suspicion grows among Lauren and Brad’s partners, Matt and Terese. Paige experiences conflict with her half-sisters Amber and Imogen but forms bonds with half-brothers Josh and Bailey. Feeling alienated by Lauren, Paige vandalizes Harold’s Store. Encouraged by Ethan, she reveals who she is after discovering that Lauren’s mother Kathy arranged her adoption. Kathy suffers a heart attack upon learning Paige’s identity but is saved by Paige. Lauren ultimately accepts Paige as her daughter, which causes mixed feelings among her half-siblings. Terese withdraws charges related to Paige’s vandalism.
Paige and Brennan develop mutual affection but break up due to his secretive involvement with Dakota Davies. Moving in with the Turners, Paige begins an online relationship with Bryson Jennings, who becomes a suspect in a theft case but is later exonerated. Bailey confesses to stealing the money involved. Paige nearly becomes intimate with Brennan’s brother Tyler but ends it because of lingering feelings for Brennan; they agree to maintain friendship despite occasional friction.
Paige uncovers Tyler’s role in a hit-and-run accident that kills Matt but later learns Danni Ferguson was responsible. She calls Lauren “mum” for the first time while supporting her family through difficulties. After discovering an illegal car operation linked to Bailey and Tyler, Paige is coerced into managing the garage under blackmail. She attempts to legitimize the business while navigating complex emotions involving Brennan and Tyler. When Tyler is attacked, Paige steals prescription painkillers for him.
Nate Kinski assists in resolving debts owed by Paige and Tyler after they disclose their predicament. Paige counters blackmail attempts from Jayden Warley through strategic measures. Brennan confesses his feelings for Paige but restrains himself out of respect for Tyler. Paige plans to reunite Lauren and Brad but encounters resistance from Terese.
At her twenty-first birthday party, Paige reconciles with her adoptive mother Mary Smith after addressing past neglect issues. When Tyler disappears, she admits involvement in the stolen car ring; Dimato’s gang is arrested except for Joey, who later takes Paige hostage before being apprehended herself. She rekindles a romantic relationship with Mark Brennan.
Paige supports Tyler in recovering stolen items from the garage; they share a kiss despite her love for Mark. Mark proposes marriage but tension arises due to differing opinions about having children. A fire traps both Paige and Tyler; he declares his love for her, yet she remains devoted to Mark. They become engaged.
Following Dimato’s release from custody, Michelle Kim manipulates Paige into assisting his escape; Paige is mistakenly abducted but manages to escape with minor injuries. Michelle attempts to frame Paige for theft; Paul Robinson intervenes to have Dimato removed from town. However, when stolen goods are found leading to Paige's arrest on her wedding day, Mark calls off their wedding over trust concerns.
After this heartbreak, Paige enrolls in fine arts studies at Eden Hill University and declines Mark’s attempts at reconciliation. She briefly dates university lecturer Noel Creighton before meeting John Doe (Jack Callahan), who has amnesia. Helping Jack recover his memories leads to falling in love; Jack reveals he is a priest conflicted between his faith and their relationship. After Jack chooses his religious path, Paige begins a casual relationship with Tyler but ends it to reconnect with Jack.
Paige pursues professional boxing under Tyler’s coaching and Aaron Brennan’s management. She wins a challenging match against Angelina Jackson but feels guilt when Angelina suffers unrelated health complications afterward. Volunteering at Blaze Outreach continues alongside ongoing tensions with Jack over church-related issues.
Pregnant with Jack's child, Paige initially hides his paternity and accepts David Tanaka's offer to temporarily pose as the father before confirming Jack as the biological parent. Following a car accident during pregnancy, she relocates to Queensland with family support but remains after Jack insists on being involved in their child’s life.
After birth complications arise, their son Gabriel is named; family supports Paige during recovery. Mark visits Queensland causing complications within relationships; an incident involving a threat to the baby generates tension among household members.
Publicly expressing enduring feelings for Mark causes friction with Elly (Mark's partner) before reconciliation leads Elly to facilitate their reunion again. Jack grows jealous of Mark's involvement in Gabe's life amid legal troubles related to Sonya's crimes.
Gabriel is kidnapped by Louise McLeod demanding ransom; following Louise's arrest Gabe is returned anonymously, renewing closeness between Paige and Jack despite conflicts involving Mark and Steph Scully (Jack's girlfriend). Eventually, Jack and Paige move near her family in Queensland.
Two years later, Paige returns alone suspecting Jack of infidelity which results in an amicable breakup as he returns to priesthood duties. She rekindles romance with Mark; they become engaged and marry after he returns for work while she prepares to relocate to Adelaide. They have another son named Freddie.
Later returning as a real estate agent assisting Chloe Brennan in selling property, Paige notices changes among Ramsay Street residents including Terese dating Paul Robinson's half-brother Glen Donnelly. She helps reconcile Terese and Paul while continuing professional real estate activities.
Paige attends Toadie Rebecchi’s wedding reception before briefly returning to Queensland for personal matters.
Reception
In 2015, Valance earned a nomination for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent due to her role as Paige, alongside a nod for Best Daytime Star at the Inside Soap Awards. The character of Paige and her narratives attracted predominantly favourable reviews. The Daily Record observed that Paige's introduction "stirred up some tensions," while the Daily Express remarked she created "considerable excitement" on Ramsay Street. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy commended Valance as a "remarkable presence" with an "immediate and unique on-screen charisma." The Age described Paige as "enigmatic and irritable," though certain critics at TV Week found her dishonesty troubling and questioned her trustworthiness.
A columnist from Soap World praised Neighbours' expertise in delivering major story arcs, highlighting Paige's revelation as a prime example. Claire Crick of All About Soap lauded the romantic pairing of Paige and Brennan, labeling them one of Ramsay Street’s most attractive couples. Kilkelly reflected on the profound influence Paige had following her 2014 debut. In 2015, Kerry Barrett from All About Soap included Paige among the publication’s top 30 favourite characters, emphasizing her compelling presence and pivotal moments such as unveiling her true identity to Lauren. On the other hand, Melinda Houston of the Sydney Morning Herald criticized Paige for being unreliable.
By the end of 2015, Ethan Sills from The Spin Off considered Paige "arguably the show’s finest character," anticipating Valance’s potential transition to Hollywood. Early in 2016, Alana Wulff of the Herald Sun highlighted Paige’s complex storylines involving romantic entanglements and personal crises. Crick commented on Mark and Paige’s ill-fated wedding ceremony, calling it a landmark event for unfortunate reasons but affirming their undeniable chemistry. The Herald Sun also listed Lauren’s discovery of Paige as one of the 30 most unforgettable moments in Neighbours.