- author, Charlotte Gallagher
- Role, Culture Correspondent
Actress Janet Andrewartha, who played Lynn Scully in Neighbours, has died at the age of 72.
The actress joined the long-running Australian soap opera in 1999 as the matriarch of the Scully family.
She left the show in 2006 but has returned several times, last appearing in Erinsborough in 2019.
The series’ official Instagram account posted a tribute to the star, saying: “Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha.
“Janet is best known to viewers for her role as Lyn Scully in Ramsay Street, and will be remembered for her diverse work, including her unforgettable role as Rip Keene in Prisoner.”
“She is one of the finest actresses of her generation and an extraordinary woman,” said Jackie Woodburne, who played Susan Kennedy in the TV series Andrewartha.
“She was passionate, political, curious, eccentric, generous and fun. She was a constant friend to me for over 45 years. I will miss her every day.”
Stefan Dennis, best known for his role as businessman Paul Robinson in Neighbours, said he was: “Very upset about the loss of the lovely Janet.
“She was a truly exceptional actress and a pleasure to work with and be with. We will all miss you, dear.”
Janet Andrewartha is also known for her roles in other successful Australian films including A Country Practice and Blue Heelers.
She also had a successful theatrical career, starring in “Othello,” “Jerusalem,” and “All My Sons.”
Neighbours was cancelled in 2022 but was revived the following year.
Neighbours began airing in 1985 and ran until 2022, when it was cancelled after Channel 5 decided to drop the show from its schedules.
At that point, the series had run for 37 years and had aired over 9,000 episodes.
The series enjoyed a golden age in the 1980s and 1990s, during which time it gained huge popularity, especially among students, being shown on BBC One twice a day (including reruns).
Margot Robbie, Russell Crowe, Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Guy Pearce, Natalie Imbruglia and Holly Valance are among the stars who appeared on Neighbours early in their careers.
