The creator of popular Australian soap opera Neighbours, Reg Watson, has died at 93.
“Everyone at Neighbours is sad to hear of the passing of our creator, Reg Watson. He was a pioneer of drama, prolific in his output and by all accounts a lovely person to work with. His legacy lives on in Ramsay Street to this day,” the show’s Executive Producer Jason Herbison posted on the show’s official social media accounts.
Neighbours, set on the fictional Ramsay Street, is Australia’s longest-running drama and is due to celebrate its 35th year in 2020.
Fan favourite Kylie Minogue paid her respects to Watson on Twitter, writing: “What a legacy Reg Watson leaves. For me, and millions of others, Neighbours impacted our lives. My thoughts and best wishes to his family and friends.”
What a legacy Reg Watson leaves. For me, and millions of others, Neighbours impacted our lives. My thoughts and best wishes to his family and friends. https://t.co/W5xKYn8zBC
— Kylie Minogue (@kylieminogue) October 12, 2019
Actress Colette Mann posted she was “eternally grateful for his talent and grace”.
I was lucky enough to be cast in two of the great shows created by the brilliant Reg Watson … before the days of the ubiquitous reality boom. I am eternally grateful for his talent and grace @Neighbours @Neighbours @geoffpaine #vale pic.twitter.com/3gmXYAOP0v
— Colette Mann (@mann_reelmann) October 12, 2019
My musical tribute to Reg Watson, the creator of “Neighbours” & a string of other top TV dramas (including Crossroads and Sons & Daughters). He has died at the age of 93. #RegWatson @neighbours @kylieminogue @abcnews pic.twitter.com/pb8g4BJeGG
— Steve Rosenberg (@BBCSteveR) October 13, 2019
RIP Reg Watson. An incredible TV creator & producer. #RegWatson pic.twitter.com/rdIJy2A4ql
— Put The Telly On 📺 (@putthetellyon) October 12, 2019
Vale Reg Watson.