Condolences are pouring in for former Neighbours actress Janet Andrewartha, whose death at the age of 72 was announced on Sunday.
The Melbourne-born star, who played Lyn Scully in the legendary Australian soap opera between 1999 and 2006 and rarely reprised her role in the years since, died peacefully in Melbourne on Friday surrounded by her daughters Sarah and Eloise, a source said. Herald-Sun.
Former Neighbors Star Holly Vallance, who now goes by her married name Holly Candy, posted a heartfelt message on X alongside a recent selfie of the couple in the UK at Christmas time last year.
Although Candy left the series in 2002 before moving to the UK, where she now lives, the 41-year-old pop singer remained close friends with Andrewartha, having played her daughter Felicity Scully.
“Deeply sad to lose Janet Andrewartha,” Candy began her post.
She continued: “She was an amazing person who taught me so much since I was 15. I will remember her last trip to the UK forever. Precious memories that I am so grateful for. A beautiful, talented, funny and kind woman.”
“I'm so glad you played my mom. You were real. You made us feel safe. And looked out for us when we were all so young in the industry. It was an honor to work with you and call you a friend.”
Candy had previously reported on the couple's meeting in London in December, when Andrewartha visited the city to attend a fan convention for the Australian TV series. Prisoner.
At that time, Candy posted photos on X showing the couple at home watching an episode of Neighbors.
“I’m home right now watching TV with myself, mom,” Candy wrote with a heart under the photos.
The sad news was first announced on Sunday on official Neighbors Social media accounts.
“Everyone at Neighbors is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha,” it said in a post.
“Popular with audiences for her role as Lyn Scully in Ramsay Street, Janet will be remembered for her extensive body of work, which includes her memorable role as Reb Keane in Prisoner: Cellblock H.”
fellow Neighbors Star Jackie Woodburne, who has played the role of Susan Kennedy in the series since 1994, also released an emotional statement, as she has had a “lasting bond” with the late actress since the 1980s.
“Janet was one of the finest actresses of her generation, but more than that, she was an extraordinary woman,” wrote Woodburne, 68.
“Passionate, political, curious, wonderfully eccentric, generous and funny. She was a loyal friend to me for over 45 years. I will miss her every day.”
Andrewartha worked until recently and joined Safe home on SBS and in the newly released, Logie-nominated Paramount+ drama Fake starring Asher Keddie.
The cause of death has not yet been determined.
