Neighbours’ special nod to Donovan dynasty

OSTN Staff

The Donovan legacy shines bright on the longest running Australian soap with Terence playing Doug Willis from 1990. He returned twice after his four year stint and was killed off in 2016.Jason followed in Terence’s footsteps in the 80s and then Jason’s daughter Jemma joined the cast three years ago. Terence was back on set for filming of the final scenes.“This program has given so much joy to so many people and to Jason and Kylie,’’ Terence said.“It’s done wonderful things to put a bit of Australia on the screens of the world.“It’s a good thing, and Jason and Kylie appreciate the opportunities that this show gave them. The people of this country embraced them. “It wasn’t just a flash in a pan, it was in every country. And they too have been the figureheads of the whole show and carried it forward. He knows that and Kylie knows that and they really wanted to show people their appreciation by coming back.”Donovan said being cast on Neighbours was one of the roles that changed his life.“Before I got into show business I worked as a salesman at Maples Furniture Store and I did the windows, I sold furniture and I did everything,’’ he said. “I was a member of the Point Lonsdale Lifesaving Club. I patrolled the beaches there and I met the wonderful group of people in those surf clubs. “I started in the theatre, working in different companies and different states. I was in West Side Story at the Princess Theatre in 1959-60 and that set me off. I’ve been dancing ever since.”Earlier this year UK based Jason told The Sun that the show was special to his family.“It has kept my family employed for a long time, to be honest. My daughter’s in it, my Dad’s in it,’’ he said.“We should be grateful for what it has given Australia.“(What) it’s given actors, producers, writers, directors. My father, in the 70s, fought very hard for Australian content in television, because the governments at the time wanted to bring cheaper exports in.”

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