The Australian television classic Neighbours will end after 37 years.
The series has been under threat of cancellation every since its U.K. broadcaster Channel 5 shut it down back in early February. On Thursday, the show confirmed that production will officially end in June 2022.
Here’s the show’s full statement, which can be found on their official Twitter account.
“We are so sorry to say that after nearly 37 years and almost 9000 episodes broadcast we have to confirm that Neighbours will cease production in June. Following the loss of our key broadcast partner in the UK and despite an extensive search for alternative funding, we simply have no option but to rest the show. To our amazing, loyal fans, we know this is a huge disappointment, as it is to all of us on the team. We thank you for all your messages and support and promise to end the show on an incredible high. From here on, we are celebrating Neighbours.”
Alan Fletcher, who plays Dr. Karl Kennedy on the show, also commented on the show shutting down for good.
It’s official Neighbours will end production in June this year. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the millions of fans all who have supported us for 37 years. Huge thanks to our broadcast partners … Stick with us as we celebrate Neighbours.“
There is currently a petition with over 63,000 signatures to save the show. “Neighbours has been a staple on UK screens for over 35 years – and has been watched by generations,” the petition begins.“Neighbours is more than just a TV show – it is a source of comfort and entertainment for generations of fans who have watched it for decades – it is one of the most loved TV shows in the UK and brings lots of viewers from all backgrounds to Channel 5’s catalogue of channels.”
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