Jason Donovan’s daughter Jemma is joining Neighbours, more than 30 years after her dad found fame on the Australian soap.
In fact, she’ll be the THIRD generation of the Donovan family to appear on the soap, as her grandad Terence – Jason’s dad – also appeared as Doug Willis.
A third generation of Donovans is heading to #Neighbours! We're over the moon to reveal Jemma Donovan, daughter of Neighbours legend Jason (Scott Robinson) and granddaughter of patriarch Terence (Doug Willis) will join the cast as Harlow Robinson – appearing on screen in July. pic.twitter.com/bRdHF3woDY
— Neighbours (@neighbours) March 26, 2019
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The exciting news was confirmed by the soap, which airs over here on Channel 5, when they shared the first picture of Jemma’s character.
Alongside the photo, they wrote: “A third generation of Donovans is heading to #Neighbours! We’re over the moon to reveal Jemma Donovan, daughter of Neighbours legend Jason (Scott Robinson) and granddaughter of patriarch Terence (Doug Willis) will join the cast as Harlow Robinson – appearing on screen in July.”
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She, in turn, told fans: “I’m so excited to announce I’ve joined the cast of Neighbours! Stay tuned!! #Neighbours @neighbours @10peachau @channel5_tv.”
Meanwhile, proud dad Jason added: “It’s official. My daughter Jemma joins the cast of Neighbours. Can’t wait to see what you do with the character Harlow Robinson. Jem, work hard, have fun and enjoy the process. Three generations of Donovan’s on Ramsay Street.”
He later added: “Thank you everyone for your kind words about @jemdonovan joining @neighbours! We are extremely proud as we are of all our children. Thank you xxx.”
Thank you everyone for your kind words about @jemdonovan joining @neighbours ! We are extremely proud as we are of all our children. Thank you xxx
— Jason Donovan (@JDonOfficial) March 26, 2019
Actor Jason found fame playing Scott Robinson on the show in the 80s, and was catapulted to stardom – thanks partly to his real-life romance with co-star Kylie Minogue.
He later embarked on a successful singing career.
Daughter Jemma, 18, will play ‘complicated’ Harlow.
While show bosses are keeping Harlow’s exact role in the Robinson dynasty under wraps for now, we do know that some of her first scenes are with Paul Robinson.
In a statement announcing her casting Jason said: “Neighbours is an incredible learning curve for any young actor. It’s become an institution and I’m so grateful for my time on Ramsay Street.
“There are so many great memories for me looking back, and to be honest this is Jemma’s moment. My Dad had a wonderful few years and I’m sure Jemma will also embrace the experience and honour the past.
“She needs to look forward, be an open book, learn from her experiences and have some fun. What an opportunity!”
Jemma starred alongside Hugh Bonneville in the BBC1 adaptation of David Walliams’ book Mr Stink.
She went on to star in the 10-part Netflix series Spotless in 2015.
Although Jason was born in Australian, he now lives in London and his daughter Jemma calls herself “a Londoner living in Melbourne”.
Will you be tuning in to watch Harlow Robinson join Neighbours? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!