Piper Willis

Piper Willis
Occupation	Fictional character
Known for	Neighbours

Piper Willis is a fictional persona featured in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, brought to life by actress Mavournee Hazel. Following a thorough casting procedure that included three auditions held in Melbourne, Hazel relocated from Sydney within a span of three days to commence filming. Piper's character was initially unveiled to viewers through a four-episode web series titled Hey Piper, prior to her official debut on the main program on 16 September 2015. Hazel eventually departed from the role to explore other acting ventures, with her concluding scenes broadcast on 3 April 2019.

As the youngest offspring of Brad and Terese Willis, Piper was first mentioned as residing in Canada on an exchange program. Her on-screen introduction was postponed to allow further development of her parents' narrative following the exit of her siblings. Piper is portrayed as a self-reliant, mature, and technologically adept adolescent, qualities that closely reflect Hazel’s own character, making the role particularly relatable for teenage audiences.

Initial story arcs centered around Piper's family relationships, including her parents' separation and her involvement in a fire at the local high school. She experiences an intermittent romantic relationship with her older neighbor Tyler Brennan, a couple affectionately dubbed "Typer" by fans. The writers introduced complications such as Tyler’s casual involvement with Piper’s half-sister Paige Smith. Additional plotlines involve Piper being subjected to bullying by her English teacher Elly Conway and engaging in a one-night encounter with her friend Angus Beaumont-Hannay.

Casting

Although Piper had been referenced by her on-screen family since May 2013, she did not appear initially and was said to be studying abroad in Canada through an exchange program. Executive producer Jason Herbison postponed Piper's arrival until her parents required "a second chapter," anticipating possible exits of her siblings. The announcement of Piper’s casting and Mavournee Hazel joining the show was made on 18 August 2015. Hazel described securing a permanent role as "an incredible feeling" after years of perseverance and expressed immediate affection for the character upon auditioning.

Hazel traveled from Sydney to Melbourne for several audition rounds spread over months before landing the part. The financial burden of travel posed a significant hurdle for Hazel, then a university student, but she remained optimistic throughout the process. Within three days of casting, she moved to Melbourne to begin wardrobe fittings and filming. Hazel conveyed plans to remain with Neighbours for multiple years before seeking acting opportunities abroad in Los Angeles or the United Kingdom. Her first appearance as Piper aired on 16 September 2015.

Characterisation

During casting, both Hazel and the producers shared a clear vision for Piper, with Hazel appreciating the confidence placed in her to depict the character’s unique traits and storylines. Hazel found it straightforward to embody Piper due to their shared characteristics but took any criticism personally. She admired Piper’s self-assurance and felt she was evolving into a similar persona herself.

In an interview with All About Soap, Hazel described Piper as "a tech enthusiast, independent thinker, and liberated individual," highlighting her maturity, intelligence, and wit. On the official website, Hazel added that Piper is fun-loving with a "laid-back attitude toward life" and unapologetically authentic. While enjoying portraying Piper’s rebellious streak, Hazel noted that despite her maturity, Piper often "speaks without a filter."

Hazel believed that Piper’s ideal career path would be journalism at outlets like BuzzFeed, appreciating the opportunity to express opinions within "a distinctly modern setting." She anticipated that Piper would likely pursue internships rather than completing high school traditionally. In an interview with TV Soap, Hazel remarked that wearing Piper's Doc Martens boots and embracing the acting challenge were among her favorite experiences. Future plots were expected to explore themes of mischief, deception, guilt, and vulnerability.

Piper initially struggled under the shadow cast by her older siblings—Imogen (Ariel Kaplan) excelled academically while Josh (Harley Bonner) thrived in sports—until she established her own identity during her time in Canada. Unlike Imogen’s academic focus, Piper favors learning through experience. Executive producer Herbison described Piper as the "opposite of Imogen," aiming to distinguish herself within the family dynamic. She shares traits such as a temper inherited from the Willis lineage, independence from her mother, and a close relationship with her father. Upon meeting Paige, they bonded over their mutual "fiery and sassy personalities."

The character was written as bisexual, referencing previous same-sex relationships on-screen. In 2017, Hazel acknowledged positive fan reactions despite no immediate plans for further exploration of this aspect.

Piper develops a strong friendship with neighbor Xanthe Canning (Lilly Van der Meer). Although initially unexpected by Hazel, Xanthe brings out Piper’s more feminine side while receiving support in return. Off-screen friendship between Hazel and Van der Meer contributes to their natural chemistry on screen. When questioned about potentially dating Xanthe’s boyfriend Ben if they parted ways, Hazel confirmed that Piper and Ben have always maintained a platonic relationship.

Webisodes and introduction

Prior to her appearance on the main series, the character was featured in a webisode collection titled Hey Piper, which showcased video conversations with her relatives. The premiere episode presented Piper meeting her half-sister Paige Smith (Olympia Valance) shortly after the Erinsborough tornado. Their encounter was described as "very awkward" due to Piper's limited knowledge of recent family events. In later episodes, Piper reconnects with her grandfather Doug Willis (Terence Donovan) and learns from her father, Brad Willis (Kip Gamblin), about his separation from her mother and his new relationship with Lauren Carpenter (Kate Kendall). Brad also provides comfort to a distressed Piper.

Piper returns home amidst a heated dispute between her parents, which Hazel likened to "something from Jerry Springer!" After being informed by her siblings about ongoing family tensions, she travels back from Canada. Her goal is to act as "the glue that holds them all together," refraining from taking sides in the separation while finding her role within the family amid conflicts involving Brad and Terese (Rebekah Elmaloglou). While filming vlogs, Piper encounters Brad's new partner Lauren without initially realizing who she is, and finds her pleasant. Upon Paige’s introduction, Piper feels conflicted, having intended to resent Lauren for disrupting her family.

Piper disapproves of Terese's handling of the marital issues, believing it obstructs potential reconciliation. However, spending more time with her mother leads to increased empathy. During filming around Erinsborough, Piper develops a friendship with Ben Kirk (Felix Mallard), sharing casual lunches and musical interests. Together, they unintentionally cause minor trouble at a local garage. Hazel remarked that while their friendship is strong, it is not always beneficial. Meanwhile, Piper receives messages from former boyfriend Brodie "Chas" Chaswick (Matt Testro), whom she had broken up with before returning to Australia. Chas believes their relationship can withstand the distance, so they maintain contact.

Erinsborough High fire

One early plotline involves Piper in a fire incident at the local high school. During a charity sleepout event, Piper persuades her friend Ben to ignite a piece of paper, which activates the sprinkler system but inadvertently causes a "devastating fire" that injures her mother Terese. Both feel overwhelmed by guilt, and Piper urges Ben to keep the incident secret. Nonetheless, Ben confesses to his grandparents and the police, leading to charges of reckless conduct. Piper wrestles with guilt as her mother endures injuries. Eventually, Piper admits partial responsibility to Lauren, who encourages transparency; however, Piper proposes fleeing with Ben. They escape to Glenrowan, taking up fruit-picking jobs until Ben collapses due to earlier injuries.

Upon returning to school, Piper feels anxious and confides in neighbour Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns), who reassures her that some may view her as a hero. Responses are divided; some praise her involvement while others remain cautious. Piper withdraws home and uses a lighter to intimidate obstructive students—an act overheard by Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne).

Relationship with Tyler Brennan

Piper finds herself developing romantic emotions towards Tyler. Burns highlighted their common interests and lively personalities. Initially, Tyler is unaware of Piper’s feelings and gently rejects her advances. Hoping to catch his attention, Piper encourages him to attend a singles' event and later surprises him by initiating a kiss, which catches Tyler off guard due to their age gap and family ties. Piper openly admits her affection, and although Tyler reciprocates some feelings, he cautions against pursuing a relationship to avoid complications. Piper feels heartbroken after seeing Tyler share a kiss with Courtney Grixti (Emma Lane).

Although there is mutual attraction, Tyler wants to secure parental consent before moving forward with dating. To keep the relationship going, Piper falsely claims that her parents approve. They start a secret relationship and plan to take their connection further at the school formal. Hazel described Piper as romantic despite her feminist beliefs and distinctive style. Fans responded positively to their chemistry, affectionately naming the couple "Typer."

At the formal event, Piper’s parents discover her intention to lose her virginity to Tyler and forbid them from attending together. An ultimatum from Piper backfires, leaving her without plans for the evening. She admits to lying about parental approval, which prompts Tyler to reluctantly end their relationship. Later, Tyler persuades Terese to reconsider their stance on his relationship with Piper. Jealousy causes Piper to throw a drink at Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta), who is revealed as Susan Kennedy’s niece and Piper’s new English teacher.

The formal triggers tension between Piper and Elly, whose flirtatious demeanor conflicts with Piper’s principles. Elly retaliates by unfairly grading Piper’s work and insulting her; Susan intervenes and compels Elly to apologize. Hazel observed that while Piper hopes to mend things with Tyler, she has somewhat "lost herself" within the relationship.

Upon discovering Tyler’s casual involvement with Paige, Piper retaliates by playing footage of them having sex during Brad and Terese's divorce party. Hazel explained this impulsive act stemmed from feelings of humiliation. The aftermath leaves Piper isolated amid her parents’ disappointment. Hazel confirmed that repairing the friendship foundation is crucial before any potential romantic reunion with Tyler can occur.

One-night stand

In October 2016, promotional material hinted at Piper growing closer to neighbour Angus Beaumont-Hannay (Jai Waetford), leading to speculation about a sexual encounter between them. It was later revealed that after being rejected by Tyler, Piper would lose her virginity to Angus. The storyline depicts Tyler supporting Piper through challenging moments, including her father’s hospitalisation. When Piper attempts to kiss Tyler again, he pulls away, leaving her feeling hurt. Subsequently, she shares "a night of reckless teenage fun" with Angus, where they bond over their respective heartbreaks. Impressed by Angus’s maturity, Piper kisses him and they engage in sex inside her car. The following morning, they are caught by Tyler’s brother Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson), causing embarrassment for both. Hazel noted that although Piper shows some remorse afterward, she tries to project confidence and convinces herself she has moved on from Tyler. Aaron informs Tyler about the incident, devastating him as he had been prepared to commit fully to Piper.

Departure

On 22 February 2019, Jess Lee from Digital Spy suggested that Hazel might be exiting Neighbours, highlighting her absence from social media posts related to the set. Remarks made by co-stars Elmaloglou and Takaya Honda implied the actress had left the show. Hazel’s management updated her online resume, signaling the conclusion of her filming commitments. In an interview with the Herald Sun, Hazel explained her decision was motivated by a desire to progress her acting career and embrace fresh challenges: "This marks the end of an era for me... I’ve gained so much experience as an actor and had to mature quickly... I was eager to expand my skills and push myself further." Spoilers released for the week commencing 1 April 2019 confirmed Piper’s departure on 3 April; following a conflict with her sister Imogen, she leaves town to reunite with Tyler in Adelaide.

Storylines

Piper arrives back from Canada amid family discord. She encounters her half-sister Paige and meets her father’s new partner, Lauren Turner. While recording her vlog, Piper forms a friendship with Ben Kirk. Feeling disconnected from her family, Piper faces a fire at Erinsborough High where her mother sustains serious burns. Ben admits responsibility for starting the fire, and Piper reveals she had encouraged him to activate the sprinklers as a prank. They flee together and take up fruit picking work before returning home after Ben becomes unwell.

Seeking guidance on returning to school, Piper consults neighbor Tyler Brennan but encounters bullying. She develops romantic feelings for Tyler while assisting with bookkeeping at his garage. Piper builds a friendship with Xanthe Canning and secretly rekindles a relationship with her ex-boyfriend Brodie "Chas" Chaswick. After an explosion results in the deaths of Josh and Piper’s grandfather, she suspects Brodie, though he provides an alibi. Piper and Tyler date in secret due to Terese’s disapproval of their age gap but eventually consummate their relationship despite parental objections.

Following Brad’s assault on Tyler, Piper and Tyler run away but later return to Erinsborough facing financial difficulties. They reside at Leo Tanaka’s backpackers’ hostel; Piper considers emancipation to obtain social security benefits but abandons this plan once Tyler secures employment. Piper becomes involved in producing and distributing fake IDs until caught by teacher Elly Conway. After suffering fractures to her leg and pelvis in an accident, she moves back home for recovery.

Piper opposes acting principal Finn Kelly’s school reforms by organizing a student strike but withdraws after receiving suspension threats. She posts vlogs addressing misogyny which attract online harassment and doxxing when private content is leaked. Prior to her VCE English exam, fabricated texts lead to a breakup with Tyler; however, they reconcile after Piper is saved from being trapped on a boat by Hamish’s ex-girlfriend.

When Tyler faces murder charges, Piper encourages Ben not to lie to police despite external pressure. The night before Tyler’s trial, they attempt to escape but are apprehended following a rooftop pursuit. Tyler receives a 20-year sentence with a minimum non-parole period of ten years and severs ties with Piper. After Terese reveals she reported Piper and Tyler to authorities, Piper experiences emotional distress and begins seeing a psychiatrist.

Piper starts dating Cassius Grady, discovering he rescued her from the beach and is Tyler’s half-brother who killed Hamish. Cassius is imprisoned and assaulted; Piper contemplates pregnancy but tests negative. She motivates Cassius to contest his conviction before bidding him farewell. Later, Piper is rendered unconscious during a staged break-in orchestrated by Alice Wells.

Piper supports Terese’s relationship with Leo but reacts angrily when Leo ends it for Delaney Renshaw. After Terese is shot by Delaney’s uncle Ivan Renshaw, Piper holds Leo responsible and limits his contact with Terese. Despite ongoing tension, Piper and Leo initiate a casual sexual relationship but face family pressure when Imogen insists they inform Terese.

Upon learning Imogen represents attempted mass murderer Finn Kelly legally, Piper confronts her resulting in family conflict. At Josh and Doug’s memorial service, Piper announces her intention to leave Erinsborough, ending her relationship with Leo. She departs for Adelaide to reunite with Tyler.

Reception

Hazel received a nomination for Best Daytime Star at the 2018 Inside Soap Awards for her portrayal of Piper, and she ranked eighth in the "Best Soap Actor (Female)" category at the 2018 Digital Spy Reader Awards, securing 5.2% of the votes.

Carena Crawford from All About Soap observed that Piper rapidly made a significant impact in Erinsborough. An Inside Soap journalist highlighted her UK introduction as one of the standout soap moments, emphasizing the difficult situations she faced. Another columnist from Inside Soap characterized the character as "quirky," while Channel 5 referred to her as "elusive," noting her prior absence from her family. Tess Lamacraft of What's on TV described Piper as "headstrong" and a "feisty, free-spirit." Conversely, an Inside Soap writer criticized Piper’s act of spying on Tyler and Imogen’s date, calling it "not cool."

In June 2016, Daniel Kilkelly of Digital Spy included Piper among ten emerging soap stars, commending Hazel’s fresh portrayal and emotional intensity, particularly in scenes following Josh's death. He expressed anticipation for storylines that would explore aspects beyond romantic plots.

A reporter from TV Soap referred to Piper and Tyler as a "controversial couple." Following their breakup, actor Travis Burns launched a fan petition that amassed over 1,700 signatures advocating for their reunion, illustrating strong viewer investment. When Piper departed in 2019, Maddison Hockey of TV Week described her as "smart, witty and unafraid to stand out," highlighting her most notable storyline involving a tumultuous relationship with Tyler Brennan.

External links

• Piper Willis at the Official Neighbours website