Neighbours spin-off to focus on high schoolers

Fremantle has announced Neighbours: Erinsborough High.

The five-episode series, commissioned by Channel 5 and filmed at Fremantle’s Melbourne studio, goes deep into the teen experience for a group of students during the hectic final exam period.

Hormones are racing, friendships are tested – but when a popular student goes missing, the turmoil escalates.

“Neighbours is one of the most important dramas in Australian and British history, being able to spin off this iconic series and tell important stories to a young adult audience is an evolution we are all very proud of at Fremantle.” – Chris Oliver-Taylor, CEO Asia Pacific, Fremantle

Developed by Neighbours’ Executive Producer, Jason Herbison, and produced by Natalie Lynch, the spin-off venture will star a mix of Neighbours regular cast members and newcomers.

The series will cover many of the issues affecting teenagers today including bullying, mental illness, sexuality, cultural diversity, peer pressure, and teacher-student relationships.

“Neighbours: Erinsborough High is an exciting opportunity to shine a light on one of our most iconic playing areas – the local high school. It’s long been an ambition to delve deeper into some of our workplaces and the characters who populate them. Who knows what we might do next?” – Jason Herbison

The 22-minute episodes will stream on Channel 5’s VOD platform My5 and will also be available on 10 Play in Australia from November 11. Channel 5 has screened Neighbours in the UK since 2008.