Janet Andrewartha, the beloved actress renowned for her role as Lyn Scully on the iconic Australian soap opera Neighbours, has passed away at the age of 72. Her death occurred peacefully in her sleep on Friday, surrounded by her daughters, Eloise and Sarah, in Melbourne. The news of her passing was shared with the public on Sunday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike.
Neighbours took to social media to express their sorrow, stating, “Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street’s 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.” This heartfelt message highlighted not only her contributions to the show but also her impact on the lives of those who worked alongside her.
Andrewartha’s co-stars have been vocal in their grief, sharing their memories and admiration for the late actress. Jackie Woodburne, who portrayed Susan Kennedy on Neighbours, described Janet as “one of the finest actors of her generation” and an “extraordinary woman.” Woodburne reflected on their long-standing friendship, stating, “To me she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day.”
Stefan Dennis, known for his role as Paul Robinson, expressed his sadness, saying, “So very upset to lose the lovely Janet. As Jackie said, she truly was an exceptional actress who was a pleasure to work with and to be around. We will all miss you, dear girl.” Colette Mann, who played Sheila Canning, echoed these sentiments, sharing her shock and sadness at the news. “I can only echo Jackie’s words about Janet… brilliant, crazy in the best way, a good friend and great colleague. Vale Ms Janet my friend,” she wrote.
Janet Andrewartha first graced the screens of Neighbours in 1999, portraying Lyn Scully, who arrived in Erinsborough with her husband Joe and their daughters, Steph, Felicity, and Michelle. Her character quickly became a fan favorite, and she remained a prominent figure in the series until 2006. After a brief hiatus, she returned in 2008 for what was initially intended to be a guest role, but her popularity led to her staying on until 2011. Reflecting on her time with the show, Andrewartha remarked, “I originally came back in a guest role and ended up staying for nearly two years, so the extra time has been a bonus.”
Beyond her role in Neighbours, Andrewartha was also celebrated for her performance as Reb Keane in the drama series Prisoner: Cell Block H. Her career began as a music teacher before she pursued acting, graduating from drama school in 1979. She quickly found success on television, with one of her earliest roles in an episode of Carson’s Law in 1983.
In 1984, she secured the role of Reb Kean in Prisoner, which further solidified her status as a talented actress. Andrewartha’s contributions to the arts extended beyond television; she was involved in numerous productions for the Melbourne Theatre Company and received accolades for her performances, including a leading actress award at the 1987 Green Room Awards for her role in Tom and Viv.
Throughout her career, Andrewartha was known for her vibrant personality and her ability to connect with audiences. Her portrayal of Lyn Scully resonated with viewers, and her character’s journey through various storylines showcased her versatility as an actress. Fans have taken to social media to share their memories of watching her on Neighbours, with many expressing their sadness at her passing. One fan reminisced, “I remember watching Scully’s first episode back in 1999/2000. Rest In Peace, Janet.”
As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Janet Andrewartha’s legacy will live on through her work and the memories she created with her colleagues and fans. Her contributions to the entertainment industry, particularly in Australian television, have left an indelible mark, and she will be remembered fondly by all who knew her or admired her work.
In her final years, Andrewartha continued to act, with her last roles including performances in Safe Home and Fake. Her dedication to her craft and her passion for storytelling were evident in every role she undertook. As the Neighbours community mourns her loss, they also celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who brought joy and laughter to many.
Janet Andrewartha’s passing is a significant loss to the world of television and theatre. Her talent, warmth, and spirit will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her or watching her perform. As the tributes continue to flow, it is a testament to the impact she had on the lives of those around her.
Source: Express Newspapers
