Neighbours finds a new home on Amazon

Neighbours is back like a prematurely killed-off soap opera character.

Ryan Moloney, left, Jackie Woodburne and Alan Fletcher with Neighbours scripts for the 2023 revival of Neighbours.

Neighbours is back like a prematurely killed-off soap opera character – finding a new home for 2023 four months after its heavily promoted finale.

In a shock announcement late on Thursday, Neighbours confirmed new episodes will appear on Amazon Freevee and Prime Video, with Network 10 to retain broadcast rights in Australia. Ten had screened the July 28 finale.

Ramsay St stars Jackie Woodburne, Alan Fletcher, Stefan Dennis and Ryan Moloney have all signed on for the renewed show.

Neighbours has run for 37 years, tallying nearly 9000 episodes. Amazon will make the show’s back catalogue available, promising viewers the nostalgia of thousands of previous episodes.

Fremantle chief executive Jennifer Mullin said the production company was “thrilled” to find a new home for the series.

“Neighbours is a unique series with a powerful connection with its fans across the world,” Ms Mullin said.

Neighbours has depicted the action in Ramsay St for 37 years, featuring nearly 9000 episodes Picture: Amazon

“We cherish the show and all those who have been part of its incredible story over many decades, so we are thrilled that we have found a new home with Amazon Freevee.

“Thanks to the innovative Amazon Freevee platform, many classic episodes will be available to fans, and Neighbours will go back into full production in Australia early next year, providing our fans with new episodes.

“This partnership with Amazon Freevee marks an exciting new chapter, and we look forward to collaborating with them, along with our long-term and valued partner in Australia, Network 10.”

Paramount Australia chief content officer Beverley McGarvey said a “glimmer of hope” for the show had remained alive since July.

“We are grateful for the tenacity and determination displayed by Fremantle in securing a new production partner so our association could continue,” he said.

Amazon head of programming Lauren Anderson spoke of the show’s pull.

“Neighbours has captivated its audience for nearly 40 years, building a dedicated and loyal following for the lives and stories of the characters on Ramsay Street,” she said.

“With the power of streaming, we’re able to offer thousands of Neighbours episodes for new audiences to discover this legendary series – and current fans to relive their favourite moments.”