Former Neighbours star slams TV soap's axing: 'So sad'

Former Neighbours star Rob Mills has been outspoken about the cancellation of the Australian soap, and he’s feeling especially sad for his co-stars and crew as the end date draws near.

Speaking to Yahoo Lifestyle, he shared why he believes Australian content is so important, and why this particular loss stings.

“I was just talking to one of the directors the other day, it’s a sad vibe down there at the moment,” he began.

“They’re doing the best they can with the storylines and trying to tie it all off nicely.”

Rob highlighted that the soap has made such a huge difference to the Australian media landscape, listing the diverse storylines they’ve tackled: “It was the first show to have a same sex marriage, it has a trans actor, and a super diverse cast.”

He’s proud of how the show hasn’t shined a spotlight on complex issues, but instead helped normalise them so that Australians can do the same in everyday life.

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After such a “tough” couple of years in the arts, he’s clearly disappointed that there wasn’t enough support to save the show after 37 years on air.

“It could be a reflection on how this government spends money on the arts,” he muses.

“I’m not saying if the Labor government was in that they would save Neighbours, but they would [have done] a bit more.”

He admits that it’s fair for the UK Broadcaster Channel 5 to move towards more local content, and argues that this could be a sign for Australian broadcasters to do the same.

After his stint on Dancing With The Stars: All Stars, Rob now has his sights set on Hairspray the Musical opening in August.

He feels grateful that he went on a health kick and got into shape for the TV show, since his role of Corny Collins is extremely high energy.

Rob is currently an ambassador for National Banana Day, and he credits the humble banana with helping him to stay on track. He does admit that he can be tempted by chocolate or hot chips, but pairs the banana with something that sounds a little strange instead.

“I have a really weird thing where I like a banana smoothie, with a coffee shot in it,” he laughs.

“Try it out!”

When asked if he could spill any career plans after he finishes on Hairspray the Musical, Rob remained tight-lipped.

“Look, there’s a few things in the works,” he teased.

“I can’t say too much at the moment!”

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