Neighbours cast and fans heartbroken after iconic star Janet Andrewartha dies aged 72

Neighbours fans have been left heartbroken after it was revealed on Sunday that Janet Andrewartha, who was known for playing Lyn Scully on the soap, has died aged 72. The Neighbours social media accounts shared the news, paying tribute to the star with a sweet tribute from her friend and co-star Jackie Woodburne.

"Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha," the tribute reads. "Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street’s Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner: Cell Block H.

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"Janet had many friendships at Neighbours and one of her most enduring bonds was with Jackie Woodburne, who shared the following words: 'Janet was one of the finest actors of her generation, but more than that, she was an extraordinary woman. Passionate, political, curious, delightfully eccentric, generous and fun. To me she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day.'

"Our thoughts are with Janet’s family and loved ones at this time."

Janet died in her sleep last Friday, with her daughters Sarah and Eloise by her side, the Herald Sun reports.

Neighbours fans and stars share tributes to Janet Andrewartha

Neighbours star Stefan Dennis, who plays Paul Robinson on the soap, shared a tribute on the show's Instagram page, writing, "So very upset to lose the lovely Janet. As Jackie said, she truly was an exceptional actress who was a pleasure work with and to be around. We will all miss you dear girl."

"She played my mum on Embassy many years ago, such a wonderful actress and person. RIP and condolences to her family and many friends," Annie Jones wrote.

Lucinda Cowden, who appeared on the show from 1987 to 1991, wrote, "I remember when I first saw her on Prisoner … she lit up the screen, and continued to grace us with her exceptional talent in so many interesting and unique characters Vale Janet."

"Cannot fathom this loss. I send all my love to the friends and family of Janet, she was so loved by so many," Jane Hall added.

One fan wrote, "The world just lost a charismatic, generous, brilliant woman. RIP Janet."

"So very sad to hear this news, such a memorable actress who performed her role effortlessly," another added.

"This is such a shock and terrible sad news, sending love to all Janet's family and friends," a third said.

"She made Lyn one of the all time greats," another wrote, while someone else added, "Vale Janet. What an icon."

"So sad to hear this, she was a brilliant actress, wonderful to watch, always compelling, stole the screen," yet another fan said.

Many others wrote that Janet was a "true legend" and an "Australian icon".

Holly Candy "deeply sad" over loss of Janet Andrewartha

Holly Candy, who starred as Felicity Scully – Janet's daughter on the soap, took to X to share a tribute to her TV mum, writing, "Deeply sad losing Janet Andrewartha. She was a superb human being who taught me so much from the age of 15. I'll treasure her last trip to the UK forever. Precious memories I'm so grateful for. A beautiful, talented, hilarious & kind woman."

She continued, "I'm so glad it was you who played my Mum. You were the real deal. Made us feel safe. And looked after us when we were all so young in the industry. It was an honour to work beside you and call you a friend."

The star shared a photo of herself and Janet during the late actress' last trip to the UK.

Carla Bonner shared a video of a lit candle with the caption reading, "I will miss you forever."

Janet starred on Neighbours between 1999 and 2006, and returned every now and then until 2019.

She was a music teacher before training to become an actor. The change came when the principal at her school asked her to put on a musical with her Year 10 students and after responding that she didn't know anything about theatre, he asked her to find out.

This kickstarted her passion for theatre and acting. More recently, Janet starred in the SBS drama Safe Home, and appeared in Asher Keddie's recent Paramount+ show Fake.

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