She first appeared in Ramsay Street back in 1987 as Jane Harris' unpleasant mother, Amanda, and this week has returned to UK screens as Harold's new love interest, Kate Newton. Here, actress Briony Behets gives us a few moments of her time to discuss her Neighbours experiences...
Can you give us a background on your career prior to joining Neighbours as Amanda Harris in 1987?
Trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama (I don't have my resume in front of me) but things like three feature films, TV series such as Class of 75, Box 96, etc. Stage with Don’s Party, Private Lives…
How did that first Neighbours role come about? Was it just a typical audition for you? Did you enjoy playing Amanda? How would you describe her?
The role of Amanda was offered to me. She was bad to the bone.
What was it like to work alongside such an established cast, particularly in the 80s, when the show was at the peak of its popularity?
The cast were all really approachable and nice. Kylie always amazed me answering her own fan mail.
You returned to Neighbours this year in the role of Kate Newton. How did that come about?
The role of Kate came because I know the producer and I was back in Australia working on The Saddle Club and she thought it was perfect for me.
|
|
How had things changed on set in the 20 years since you last appeared?
Nothing much had changed in terms of working practise. Everything flowed.
Have you ever been a Neighbours viewer yourself?
Yes I used to watch Neighbours when it first started. I loved the characters.
What did you do in the years between playing Amanda and Kate? What are you up to these days?
The last 20 years have been varied I did a show in England called Families for 3 years then went to the USA where I have been teaching spa services.
What do you think accounts for the huge success Neighbours has continued to enjoy over the past 24 years?
Neighbours is just as its title suggests - we all want to be connected and that is difficult because of the culture of all work and no play.
Interview by Steve. Added on 4th October 2008
Back
