Fremantle is taking its daily soap Neighbours beyond Ramsay Street with a unique spin-off mini-series commissioned by the show’s UK broadcaster Channel 5 and screened locally on 10 Play, called Neighbours: Erinsborough High.
The five-episode series, filmed at Fremantle’s Melbourne studio, goes deep into the teen experience for a group of students during the hectic final exam period. Hormones are racing, friendships are tested – but when a popular student goes missing, the turmoil escalates. It will explore issues universally troubling teens today – bullying, mental illness, sexuality, cultural diversity, parental and peer pressure, and teacher-student relationships.
Chris Oliver-Taylor, CEO Asia Pacific, Fremantle, said: “Neighbours is one of the most important dramas in Australian and British history, being able to spin off this iconic series and tell important stories to a young adult audience is an evolution we are all very proud of at Fremantle.”
Developed by Neighbours’ executive producer Jason Herbison and produced by Natalie Lynch, the series stars a mix of Neighbours regular cast members and newcomers.
Jason Herbison said: “Neighbours: Erinsborough High is an exciting opportunity to shine a light on one of our most iconic playing areas – the local high school. It’s long been an ambition to delve deeper into some of our workplaces and the characters who populate them. Who knows what we might do next?”
The 22-minute episodes will stream on Channel 5’s VOD platform My5, where Neighbours achieved its highest month ever in July 2019 for 16-54s and will also be available to Australian viewers on 10 Play from November 11.
Oli Thomas, VP, Digital Lead, Channel 5, said: “Neighbours continues to be a popular show which has brought enjoyment to audiences for many years, so it’s hugely exciting to bring its first ever spin-off series to fans in the UK exclusively on My5.”
Neighbours screens weeknights 52 weeks a year, making it the only drama production here and in the UK to broadcast continually throughout the year.