.
Reference > Erinsborough News > Kristian Crashes Out

Neighbours producers are killing one of the show’s most popular characters to boost ratings.

After nearly five years playing Todd Landers, Kristian Schmid makes a dramatic exit in episodes now screening on Network Ten. “A death is bound to pick up ratings,” says Kristian, who quit the long-running Neighbours last month to star in a remake of the sci-fi series The Tomorrow People.

“But I’d like to think that the producers are showing a bit of respect for me and the character by giving him such an ending. I’m pleased they have given Todd an exciting ending, instead of sending him off to Brisbane, or something like that. It’s a good way to go out.”

Todd’s demise is the fourth death in Neighbours 7 and a half-year history. Usually, when an actor quits or is written out, producers opt for a less violent exit.

For instance, Lucy Robinson (Melissa Bell) has been packed off to Singapore, while next month Paul and Christina Robinson (Stefan Dennis and Gayle Blakeney) go to Hawaii.

Todd’s death sends Ramsay Street’s residents into shock, with his pregnant girlfriend Phoebe Bright (Simone Robertson) now facing an uncertain future as a single mother.

This article originally appeared in TV Week magazine, dated July 11th 1992, and was written by Mark McGowan

Article submitted by Steve