November 19th 2024.
Lucinda had a conversation with Metro to discuss her decision to leave Neighbours after decades of playing the beloved character Melanie Pearson. Fans of the Australian soap were saddened by the news, especially as it came just weeks after Toadie Rebecchi's own departure from the show, signaling a new era for the series as it approaches its 40th year.
Lucinda first appeared on Neighbours in 1987 as Henry Ramsay's girlfriend, sharing early scenes with iconic actors Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue. She then returned as a regular character, settling down with Joe Mangel before leaving the show in 1990. She made a special appearance for the show's 20th anniversary in 2005 and returned again in 2020, quickly becoming a fan favorite and a crucial part of the show's last episode two years later.
In her last episode, streaming today, Lucinda spoke to Metro about the overwhelming fan reaction to her departure, an unfortunate injury she sustained during her final scenes, and her excitement at appearing in the upcoming 40th Anniversary Tour.
She was surprised by the outpouring of love from fans, saying, "It has blown my tiny mind. I’m just completely overwhelmed and incredibly grateful. Bloody flattered, for an old girl!" She expressed her appreciation for the care shown by fans and apologized for not being able to respond to everyone. She also joked that she hopes her departure will nudge the show's producers to renew it for more seasons.
Lucinda also reflected on the impact Melanie had on viewers, saying, "It’s a beautiful thing to get that back. Amazing." She revealed that many fans hoped Melanie would be revealed as Krista's mother and shared her own ideas for her character's future, including exploring the wellness area or delving into "kooky" storylines.
When asked about her departure, Lucinda admitted that it still hurts and that she was taken by surprise when she was told the news. She also mentioned that she had a feeling the show would be letting go of some characters due to the large cast size. She explained, "When I was told, I had no idea that was the way the conversation was going to go. It was a shock, and I felt like I’d done something wrong."
Despite the initial shock, Lucinda has come to terms with her departure and is grateful for her time on the show. She shared that she had to keep it a secret during her last UK appearance, which was just days after filming her final scenes. She also revealed that she had to re-film some scenes after breaking her nose, but refused to let that stop her from attending the event.
Lucinda Cowden recently announced her departure from the long-running Australian soap, Neighbours, leaving many fans feeling heartbroken. She has played the role of Melanie Pearson on and off since 1987, and her exit comes just weeks after her on-screen ex-husband, Toadie Rebecchi, also left the show. This marks a new era for Neighbours as it approaches its 40th year.
Lucinda's character, Mel, first appeared on the show as Henry Ramsay's girlfriend and shared early scenes with the iconic Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue, who played Scott and Charlene Robinson. She then returned as a regular character, settling down with Joe Mangel before leaving in 1990. Mel would later make a special appearance in a scene filmed for the show's 20th anniversary in 2005. She reappeared in 2020 and quickly became a fan favorite, playing a crucial role in what was thought to be the last episode of the show.
In an interview with Metro, Lucinda shared her thoughts on her character's exit, the overwhelming fan reaction, and her excitement for the upcoming 40th Anniversary Tour. She expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans and acknowledged their disappointment in her departure. However, she also mentioned that with the show's uncertain future, she may not be at the top of their priorities at the moment. But she hopes that the fans' reaction will help the show's producers make the right decision.
When asked about her character's potential storylines, Lucinda revealed that she and her co-star, Majella, had hoped for Mel to be revealed as Krista's mother. They even played with the idea on set, driving everyone crazy with their antics. Lucinda also shared her desire for Mel to explore the "wellness area" and become a "Well-Mel" who dabbles in remedies and potions, leading to some hilarious moments. She also joked about her character's secret past as a fugitive from British law and her love for playing the kooky and eccentric side of Mel.
Lucinda's departure from the show came as a shock to her, and she shared that she had no inkling that her character would be written off. She had even been thinking about where Mel would live if she reunited with Toadie. Despite the initial shock and disappointment, Lucinda has come to terms with her departure and is grateful for the opportunity to have played such a fun and dynamic character.
As the news of her exit has become public, Lucinda admits that she has been experiencing a resurgence of emotions. She recalls how difficult it was to keep it a secret during her meet and greets with fans earlier this year and how she felt like a "fake" not being able to share the news. She also talks about the challenges of keeping secrets in the industry and how it can make one feel inauthentic. She ultimately decided to frame her departure as not being her own choice, to soften the blow for fans.
Finally, Lucinda shares her experience filming her final scenes just days before her last appearance in the UK. She reveals that she had to go back and re-do some scenes after breaking her nose, but she was determined to make it to the UK for her meet and greets. It was a bittersweet moment for her, but she was happy to have been able to say goodbye to her fans in person.
In conclusion, Lucinda's departure from Neighbours may be a sad moment for fans, but she is grateful for the love and support she has received. She is excited for the show's 40th Anniversary Tour and looks forward to seeing what the future holds for her character and the show.
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