Xanthe Canning
Xanthe Canning | |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Fictional character |
| Years active | 2016–2019 |
| Known for | Australian television soap Neighbours |
Xanthe Canning is a fictional persona from the Australian television soap Neighbours, brought to life by actress Lilly Van der Meer. Her arrival was hinted at in October 2015, with Van der Meer’s casting confirmed the next month. She secured the role through a remote audition and subsequently moved from Queensland to Melbourne for filming purposes. Xanthe, who is Sheila Canning’s granddaughter and Kyle Canning’s half-sister (Chris Milligan), made her first appearance on 22 January 2016. In late 2018, Van der Meer relocated to Los Angeles, which resulted in Xanthe’s departure from the show on 8 January 2019.
Xanthe is portrayed as an upbeat and self-assured young woman. She relocates to Erinsborough to reside with her father, Gary Canning (Damien Richardson), following her mother’s abandonment. Early plotlines involve tensions with Sheila and Kyle, eventual reconciliation with Gary, and challenges with self-worth due to bullying incidents. She embarks on a romantic relationship with Ben Kirk (Felix Mallard), which was featured in a dedicated online spin-off. After their relationship ends, she suffers an assault by a fellow student. Subsequently, her mother, Brooke Butler (Fifi Box), is introduced, creating upheaval by defrauding family members and acquaintances.
In 2017, Xanthe falls under the influence of Finn Kelly (Rob Mills), who seeks the position of Principal at Erinsborough High. Finn exploits her as an informant and confides in her after disclosing his brain aneurysm diagnosis. He later implicates Xanthe in an attempt to poison Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), revealing his manipulative nature. Van der Meer commented that Finn’s schemes would have enduring repercussions for Xanthe. The narrative progresses into 2018 when Finn intentionally strikes her with a vehicle, resulting in significant injuries. Both the character and Van der Meer’s portrayal have been met with favorable critical response, earning Van der Meer a nomination for Best Newcomer.
Casting
In October 2015, actress Colette Mann (Sheila Canning) disclosed to Digital Spy that a new member of the Canning family was set to join the series, promising "a big new storyline." The subsequent month saw Lilly Van der Meer cast as Xanthe, Sheila’s granddaughter and Kyle Canning’s half-sister (Chris Milligan).
Van der Meer auditioned with assistance from her mother and was contacted shortly after turning 16 to begin work at the Melbourne studios. She found out she had won the role during a lunch break at school and moved from Queensland to Melbourne for filming. This was her first significant acting opportunity, and she reported that production was progressing smoothly. To continue her studies amid filming demands, Van der Meer completed her education online between takes. Mann commended Van der Meer’s swift assimilation into the cast, remarking that she had become "already a Canning after just a couple of weeks." Van der Meer made her debut as Xanthe on 22 January 2016.
Characterisation and introduction
Mann highlighted Xanthe's resilience paired with a playful nature, while Van der Meer remarked that her entrance would "bring some disruption." According to the official description, Xanthe is "inherently self-assured," having honed her "survival instincts" while growing up with her "unpredictable" mother Brooke Butler (Fifi Box). Van der Meer enjoys bringing to life Xanthe's "vivacious spirit," describing her as "energetic and outspoken," which contrasts with her own demeanor, making the role particularly stimulating. She elaborated, "I'm making very different choices for Xanthe's character. She acts with good intentions but often finds herself involved in problematic situations." Xanthe's wardrobe is characterized as "very feminine," favoring snug tops and shades of purple and pink, complemented by some "exceptionally stylish" dresses and high heels that complete her signature appearance.
Shortly after arriving in Erinsborough, Xanthe tries to obtain a free burger from The Waterhole pub through deception, but manager Sheila Canning quickly uncovers the ruse, causing Xanthe to flee. Later, she reveals to Sheila that she is her granddaughter, a major revelation since Sheila was unaware that her son Gary Canning (Damien Richardson) had another child. Gary’s son Kyle, Xanthe’s half-brother, was also taken aback by this news. Mann explained that Sheila feels hurt by Gary’s secrecy but soon develops sympathy for Xanthe due to Gary’s absence. Despite initial difficulties bonding, Sheila eventually embraces Xanthe, whom Mann described as "a compelling character." Van der Meer anticipated that Xanthe would become "a close companion" on Ramsay Street while encountering "adventures, challenges, and mischief."
Early storylines
Xanthe runs away and takes refuge in a show home, where she hosts a party charging an entry fee to raise money for a ticket back to the Gold Coast. After being apprehended by police, she opts to stay with Sheila rather than enter foster care but feels hurt by Kyle’s criticism of her behavior. Kyle later acknowledges he has been harming their relationship, paving the way for their first meaningful conversation. Sheila enrolls Xanthe at Erinsborough High, where she struggles with her studies and faces bullying from fellow student Alison Gore (Madeleine Andreopoulos). Xanthe forms a friendship with Piper Willis (Mavournee Hazel), who disapproves when Xanthe steals and sells an exam paper to raise funds.
Unaware that her father Gary is incarcerated, Xanthe asks Sheila to take her to visit him after Kyle declines a visiting order. She is ecstatic but their reunion starts off awkwardly. Gary hints at an early release, leading Sheila to invite him to stay with them. Concerned about stability, Kyle warns Gary that Xanthe needs consistent support. Following Gary’s parole being revoked after a fight, Xanthe attempts to advocate for his release but discovers only inmates can appeal decisions. Gary refuses contact with her, and after hearing Kyle’s remarks, Xanthe prepares to run away once more. A confrontation with Sheila results in Sheila suffering a heart attack, and Xanthe is briefly placed in care.
Xanthe endures cyber-bullying and struggles with low self-worth, responding by trolling herself online. Actress Lilly Van der Meer described these scenes as "challenging" and conducted extensive research on bullying. This storyline explores how negative online remarks lead Xanthe to perceive herself as "stupid or worthless," fueling her desire for plastic surgery as a means of improving her self-image. She books a consultation for breast implants but cancels after friends inform Sheila. Later, Xanthe admits feeling unattractive growing up and attributes her body image issues to her mother’s influence.
Connection with Ben Kirk
Xanthe is instantly drawn to Ben Kirk (Felix Mallard) and makes efforts to capture his interest, beginning by offering him an alcoholic beverage. Ben's grandparents, Karl (Alan Fletcher) and Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), express concern that Xanthe might interfere with Ben’s attempts to establish stability, instructing him to avoid her. Although Xanthe tries to bypass this restriction, Ben hesitates to go against their wishes.
In April 2016, Xanthe and Ben featured in a digital spin-off called Xanthe ♥ Ben, a 20-episode series on the show's Instagram platform that explored events surrounding the Lassiters' Hotel explosion. The plot involved the pair taking money belonging to Tom Quill (Kane Felsinger). Van der Meer commented on their evolving dynamic, describing Xanthe as "infatuated" and "quite forward," while Ben seemed more hesitant.
Later, Angus Beaumont-Hannay (Jai Waetford) expresses interest in Xanthe and steals Ben’s portion of Tom Quill’s money, which leads to a confrontation between the two over her. Although initially frustrated, Xanthe eventually succumbs to Angus's charm. Waetford characterized Angus as "extremely flirtatious," frequently presenting gifts and contemplating staying in Erinsborough.
Ben and Xanthe attend the school formal together and begin dating. Xanthe purchases an expensive gown but becomes anxious about affording it after being soaked accidentally during the event; Ben diverts her attention with a kiss. However, she later finds out that Gary paid Ben to accompany her, resulting in heartbreak and their breakup. A planned date is interrupted when Xanthe becomes trapped with a snake and is rescued by Piper. Meanwhile, Ben shares a kiss with Alison, which Xanthe witnesses.
The couple reconciles, and when Ben travels to the Gold Coast for a singing audition alongside Madison Robinson (Sarah Ellen), Xanthe follows him intending to deepen their relationship. Van der Meer described them as "deeply in love," eager to be together. Their plans are thwarted by Angus and Susan, causing an awkward situation.
Ben and Xanthe eventually end their relationship due to interference from her mother, igniting a family dispute. Despite this, they secretly reunite amid the tension. When Sheila arrives as they meet outside Xanthe’s home, Ben hides behind her car but is struck by the car door when Sheila reconsiders her actions. Karl witnesses this incident and accuses Sheila of assaulting Ben, escalating the family conflict.
Assault
In August 2016, Xanthe was assaulted by her peer Cooper Knights (Charlie Hannaford). After breaking up with Ben, she spends time with Cooper in an attempt to provoke jealousy in Ben. During a school film project at Lassiter’s Hotel, Cooper attempts to kiss Xanthe and refuses to let her leave until they "get it right." Although Xanthe resists his advances, she is left shaken and unable to finish the assignment, troubling her teacher Elly.
Eventually, Xanthe confides in Elly about the assault but learns that proving the claim will be difficult. After Cooper faces accusations, he is attacked; initially, suspicion falls on Xanthe’s father Gary due to his frustration over how the school handled the matter. Subsequently, Terese Willis uncovers footage of the assault from hidden cameras and anonymously sends it to Xanthe. Ben discovers that Cooper’s mother, Maureen Knights (Judith Chaplin), was responsible for the attack and encourages him to report it to the police. Xanthe expresses gratitude toward Ben for preventing her father from going back to prison.
Mother
Nearly a year after leaving Xanthe behind, Brooke Butler makes a return to Erinsborough. Struggling with conflicting feelings, Brooke finds it difficult to articulate the reasons for her departure. She seeks Gary's endorsement, though Xanthe remains doubtful of her intentions. Brooke asserts that she operates a prosperous jewellery sales enterprise and persuades Sheila that she is financially independent, shortly following the Cannings’ $10,000 win on Family Feud.
While assisting in organising a jewellery party, Brooke secretly plans to take Xanthe away and becomes envious of the bond between Gary and Terese Willis. Demonstrating romantic interest in Gary only heightens Xanthe’s suspicions that Brooke might be running a con. After cautioning Gary about Brooke’s history of scams—including an incident involving a counterfeit Rolex watch—Xanthe reaches out to one of Brooke’s previous victims, Trey Johnson. Brooke deceives Gary into handing over his Family Feud prize money by alleging that customs have seized her jewellery.
Brooke also deliberately damages Xanthe’s relationship with Ben, hoping their split will prompt Xanthe to leave Erinsborough. Van der Meer commented that this tension would persist even if reconciliation took place. Following revelations that the jewellery Brooke sold was fraudulent, she leaves town. Van der Meer praised her collaboration with Box for their genuine mother-daughter chemistry and expressed hope that Brooke would return to further develop their dynamic.
The producers reintroduced Brooke in April 2017, where she seeks to make reparations for her past misdeeds.
Finn Kelly's manipulation
In March 2017, science educator Finn Kelly (portrayed by Rob Mills) arrived on the scene, assuming responsibility for tutoring Xanthe after his ex-girlfriend Elly Conway stepped back and showing an interest in Ben’s professional ambitions. After Elly unintentionally pushes Finn down a staircase during an argument, Finn schemes to usurp the principal position from Elly’s aunt Susan Kennedy while attempting to rekindle their relationship. He confides in Xanthe, who becomes close to him and agrees to act as his informant at school, unaware of his manipulative tendencies. Finn discloses that he suffers from a brain aneurysm, which deepens Xanthe's involvement with him.
Finn presents Xanthe with a necklace and convinces her that others are conspiring against him. Ben grows wary and searches for proof. Following a visit to Finn’s motel room, Xanthe ends her relationship with Ben. Finn replaces Susan's vitamins with Piper's pain medication, resulting in Susan’s hospitalization and his appointment as acting principal. When Xanthe uncovers this scheme, Finn uses flattery to persuade her to remain silent. Actor Rob Mills described Finn’s behavior toward Xanthe as bordering on grooming but clarified their connection is not romantic.
Under suspicion by police for tampering with medication, Finn attempts to escape to Hong Kong with Xanthe; however, they are apprehended before departure. Despite this, Xanthe remains devoted, focusing on caring for Finn due to his medical condition. Finn falsely accuses her of poisoning Susan, but she refuses to accept his claims. Upon visiting his hideout, she recognizes his manipulation; after recording his confession, Finn collapses. This storyline significantly affects Xanthe’s relationships and personal development.
Mills returned to the role in May 2018 when Finn comes back seeking vengeance against those who wronged him. Although their interactions are limited during this period, they carry weight. Subsequently, Finn strikes Xanthe with Elly’s car during a scavenger hunt event, inflicting severe injuries and causing confusion over the driver’s identity; Elly is arrested as a result. Actress Lilly Van der Meer described this plotline as intense and pivotal for Xanthe’s character progression, expressing hope for a future confrontation where Xanthe gains control over Finn.
Departure
On 11 December 2018, Daniel Kilkelly of Digital Spy reported that Van Der Meer had exited the show and moved to Los Angeles. She confirmed completing her final scenes in September. Xanthe's departure was featured in the episode broadcast on 8 January 2019, where she leaves Erinsborough to pursue medical studies in Toowoomba. Prior to leaving, she initially does not receive her exam results for a Melbourne university but later secures a spot at a Queensland institution. Her ex-boyfriend Ben informs her of a nearby employment opportunity to assist with living costs. Upon learning that Gary has resumed criminal activities to cover her tuition fees, Xanthe briefly contemplates remaining in Erinsborough to study nursing at Eden Hills University but ultimately opts to depart. She also decides against seeking closure with Finn, feeling liberated from their past. After filming her final scenes, Van Der Meer shared an emotional farewell on Instagram, expressing appreciation for the cast, crew, and fans.
Storylines
Xanthe arrives in Erinsborough searching for her father, Gary Canning. Following a rocky start marked by conflicts—including scamming meals, organizing a party for money, and suspension due to cheating—she gains employment at Harold's Cafe with Sheila’s assistance. Xanthe develops romantic connections with Ben Kirk and Angus Beaumont-Hannay while dealing with cyberbullying and family tensions involving her mother Brooke and half-sister Jesse.
Her relationship with Ben experiences fluctuations amid familial disputes. Inspired by hospital work experience and tutoring from Finn Kelly—who manipulates her for his own goals—Xanthe aspires to become a nurse. After Finn's criminal acts come to light—including drug tampering and framing Xanthe—she captures his confession on record. Following a severe car accident caused by Finn, Xanthe endures seizures but receives a substantial insurance settlement that enables her to apply for medical school.
Financial difficulties emerge when Gary borrows from criminals; Xanthe supports him by working at Lassiter's Spa. Despite achieving an impressive ATAR score, she is only accepted at the Toowoomba campus and contemplates nursing at Eden Hills due to financial strain and family responsibilities. Encouraged by Ben and Sheila, she ultimately commits to studying medicine in Queensland. Over a year later, she learns of Gary's murder by Finn but remains distant from Erinsborough.
Reception
Soap World commended Van der Meer’s immediate influence and her skill in captivating audiences despite Xanthe’s imperfections. The Daily Telegraph noted the character as part of Neighbours' transition toward more daring promotional approaches. Network Ten’s drama executive remarked on viewers’ excitement regarding new characters like Xanthe and their narratives. Some reviewers found the character’s name distinctive or observed similarities among the show's younger cast members.
Inside Soap characterized Xanthe as "troublesome" but showing promise for development under Sheila’s mentorship. The character quickly gained popularity, with commentators describing her as a "brazen blonde" and "wild child." At the 2016 Digital Spy Reader Awards, Van der Meer received a nomination for Best Newcomer. MediaWeek acknowledged her comedic abilities as the show’s standout discovery that year. In Huffpost’s ranking of top Neighbours characters, Xanthe was placed thirty-second, praised for her engaging charm and compelling storylines involving romance and manipulation.