Neighbours star Ayisha Salem-Towner has spoken about her surprise return to the soap as Nell Rebecchi.
Salem-Towner left the Freevee soap back in September as Nell departed Ramsay Street with her father Toadie, but it was announced last month that the pair would be returning to Erinsborough in a new storyline.
The arc sees Toadie and Nell return to town as he seeks support from his estranged wife Terese, with the character asking Terese if she can take care of Nell for the foreseeable future.
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Following the surprise development, Salem-Towner – who debuted as Nell in 2023 – spoke with the soap’s official social media channels about her upcoming storyline, explaining how Nell’s return was facilitated.
“Hi everyone, it’s Ayisha here,” she began. “It’s one of the first days back on set since I’ve had a little break [where] the Rebecchis went to Colac. When we heard that Ryan [Moloney] was leaving, obviously Nell’s future was a bit uncertain.
“There was kind of a few months of that actually [where I] was just sitting around not sure where she was going to be, because obviously she still needs a guardian. And then I got told there might be a way for Nell to come back.
“Obviously she’s got very strong relationships on the street – she’s grown up there her whole life. She’s got Terese, who is such a mother figure to her now. And she’s got JJ [Varga-Murphy] and the Kennedys.
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“We also know that Ryan is coming back to do a bit of guesting, so that’s also a great way for Nell to maintain her connection with her dad whilst still being on the street. The producers came up with the idea that Nell can stay with Terese, who can be her guardian.
“They have such a strong relationship – they’re a cute little power duo, I love them so much. It’ll be interesting to see Nell’s new journey. She’s on her own and an independent girly. She’s now, for the first time, finding out who she is. It will be very interesting to watch that space. Enjoy.”
Salem-Towner’s return was welcomed by fans in the comment section, with one writing: “So happy Nell is back too! Can’t wait to see what is in store for her. And us,” whilst another viewer added: “So happy that Nell is back 🙌 Looking forward to following her journey ❤️”
