Neighbours Star Janet Andrewartha Passes Away at 72
Janet Andrewartha, fondly remembered for her role as Lyn Scully in the Australian soap opera "Neighbours", has died at the age of 72. The news of her passing was shared on Sunday by the official "Neighbours" social media account, who paid tribute to her extensive and impressive career.
"Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha," the statement read. "Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Streetâs Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner: Cell Block H."
Andrewartha passed away peacefully in her sleep in Melbourne on Friday, with her daughters Sarah and Eloise by her side, according to the Herald Sun.
The "Neighbours" statement also highlighted the close bond between Andrewartha and fellow actress Jackie Woodburne.
"Janet had many friendships at Neighbours and one of her most enduring bonds was with Jackie Woodburne," the statement continued. Woodburne shared her own heartfelt tribute, saying: "Janet was one of the finest actors of her generation, but more than that, she was an extraordinary woman. Passionate, political, curious, delightfully eccentric, generous and fun. To me she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day."
Andrewartha's presence on "Neighbours" spanned from 1999 to 2006, with occasional returns up to 2019. Late last year, she reunited with her on-screen daughter, Holly Valance, now known as Holly Candy, for a heartwarming "Neighbours" viewing session. Candy, who played Felicity Scully on the show from 1999 to 2002, shared photos of their get-together on X, captioning them: "Just at home watchinâ tele with me Ma."
Beyond her television work, Andrewartha was also a well-respected stage actress, with stage credits stretching from 1981 to 2013. She was a familiar face in Australian theatre, particularly at the Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC). Her most recent screen work included roles in the SBS drama "Safe Home" and the Logie-nominated Paramount+ series "Fake".
Jan Russ, former "Neighbours" casting director, remembered Andrewartha as a "beautiful, talented and superb actor and human being." In an online post, Russ wrote: "I had cast Janet in the role of Reb Kean in Prisoner having been a fan of her work and confident she would take in that role and make it her own... [I] also cast her as Lyn Scully in Neighbours where once again she excelled in her role. Of course her theatre successes were also superb and many theatre goers will remember her work at the MTC."
Russ concluded her tribute by expressing her devastation at the news of Andrewartha's passing: "It was devastating to hear this news (of her passing). She was such a vibrant, serene person and she will be greatly missed in the industry. RIP dearest Janet. Forever in our hearts and great memories."
Born in September 1951, Andrewartha initially pursued a career as a music teacher before finding her passion for acting. She began her journey in the theatre after being asked by her school principal to direct a musical play for the students. Her talent and dedication led her to a successful and fulfilling career, leaving a lasting impression on the Australian entertainment industry.
