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Matthew Backer to star in iconic Aussie show Neighbours

A former Fraser Coast Chronicle journalist turned gifted thespian is set to star in classic Australian show Neighbours.

Matthew Backer starring as Logan on Neighbours.
Matthew Backer starring as Logan on Neighbours.

A former Fraser Coast Chronicle journalist turned gifted thespian is set to take on a starring role on beloved Australian television show Neighbours.

Matthew Backer, who has starred in Play School, Prosper, Five Bedrooms and numerous stage productions, will take on a regular role in the iconic series.

He has been cast as Logan, a new love interest for Aaron Brennan.

Aaron tragically lost his husband David Tanaka in a cliff fall, leaving Aaron struggling with substance abuse in the months following his death.

But a preview of new episodes suggests things may turn a corner for Aaron after he is introduced to Logan.

“I can’t even imagine what you’ve been through after you lost your partner,” Logan tells Aaron as the pair go for a run together in one preview for the show.

Former Maryborough man Matthew Backer took part in a historic episode of Play School.
Former Maryborough man Matthew Backer took part in a historic episode of Play School.

Mr Backer confirmed his casting in the comments of Neighbours’ Instagram post, one fan sharing their delight to see a love interest for Aaron.

“Thanks so much mate!!” he replied, before referencing his link to David actor Takaya Honda after both appearing in Play School: “Aaron clearly has a thing for Play School presenters”.

He added in response to another fan: “Ramsey St did welcome me with open arms … followed by a fair bit of suspicion”.

Speaking to the Chronicle after he was cast in Play School, Mr Backer said it was surreal to be part of such a beloved Australian show.

“It’s quite an honour to be part of it,” Mr Backer said.

Matthew Backer attends the Sydney opening night of & Juliet at Sydney Lyric Theatre.
Matthew Backer attends the Sydney opening night of & Juliet at Sydney Lyric Theatre.

After many years performing in theatre in Sydney and Brisbane, Mr Backer said it was great to score a role on the show.

In 2017, Mr Backer claimed a prestigious acting award after he starred in the Queensland Theatre Company’s production of Switzerland.

The play, written by Joanna Murray-Smith, claimed several awards at the prestigious Matilda Awards, which celebrates the excellence of South East Queensland’s theatre industry.

Mr Backer claimed the best actor award for his portrayal of publishing agent Edward Ridgeway, who approaches reclusive author Patricia Highsmith, author of The Talented Mr Ripley, one of the darkest and most twisted novels of all time.

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fraser-coast/matthew-backer-to-star-in-iconic-aussie-show-neighbours/news-story/2974f30e53a8dfd90f2ce48fac4d71f8