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Actor, Cameo & Crew Profiles > Actor Profiles > Daniel O'Connor

Born in November 1978 and hailing from Mount Annan, New South Wales, Daniel O’Connor attended Hurlstone Agricultural High School and was also a youth worker at Mount Annan Church, before becoming a graphic designer. In 2004, he attended the Sydney auditions for the second season of Australian Idol, performing I Surrender All, which secured him a top 100 place, then Josh Kelly’s Amazing which saw him voted through by the public into the final 12. He was then knocked out in the second episode after singer the Creed song Higher. Following his Australian Idol journey, he appeared on the mobile soap opera Random Place as Bo, and reportedly recorded his debut album with Sony.

Before the album could be released, Daniel was offered the role of Ned Parker in Neighbours. The character, the brother of series regular Stuart, first appeared at his sibling’s wedding, before returning a month later to join the permanent cast.

During his first 18 months as a Neighbours cast member, Daniel also made guest appearances on shows such as Ready Steady Cook, Thank God You’re Here, Good Morning Australia and Australia’s Brainiest. 2006 saw him nominated for the ‘Most Popular New Male Talent’ Logie Award for his role as Ned.

In 2008, Dan quit his role as Ned, explaining that he wanted to return to his musical roots. After completing filming in April 2008, he headed to the UK, where he appeared on reality series Celeb Air and began recording his album.

Articles
Up Close: Dan O'Connor
Taking The Mickey
Idol Dan Hits Neighbours
Perfect Blend Interview (2008)

Profile by Steve

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