Jackie Woodburne: Neighbours star opens up about life post-soap and her new project The Imposter

Neighbours might have finished for good last Thursday, but for the show’s star Jackie Woodburne, retirement will have to wait.

She’s front and centre in a new miniseries, The Imposter, which comes from Neighbours EP Jason Herbison.

The show focuses on Woodburne’s character, Helen O’Riley, a woman who owns a beachside hotel. Life becomes difficult when her three adult children pressure her to sell the business, and a mysterious woman appears, claiming to be her long-lost daughter.

Co-starring Dannii Minogue, British actor Kym Marsh and a host of local faces, the series is a co-production between the UK’s Channel 5 and Network Ten, and will air across two nights from Sunday.

We get the lowdown on what to expect, what’s next for the star, and how she feels wrapping her extraordinary first act.

After so many years playing Susan Kennedy on Neighbours, did it feel strange stepping into a different character?

Yes, it felt very strange to play a new character, but I had the benefit of knowing quite a bit about her for some time, so that made the transition much more comfortable.

How do you hope audiences react to seeing you in such a different role?

I just hope they go along for the rollercoaster ride that is The Imposter and don’t try to look for Susan. Trust me — she is nowhere to be found in Helen O’Riley!

Tell us about the character you play.

Helen O’Riley is a woman who has lived in disappointment and regret, and so has missed out on what could have been a happier life. She is critical, cold and judgmental, and at times very cruel. She would not be fun at a party!

How on earth did you perfect that FANTASTIC Irish accent your character has? It’s spot-on!

I was born in Northern Ireland and even though I was only three when we emigrated to Australia, the accent is one that I’ve heard my whole life. My dad and I often lapsed into broad Belfast just for some fun, so I loved that Helen was also from Northern Ireland and I could use that accent in the role.

When did you film the series, and what made you decide to sign on to this specific project?

We filmed immediately after Neighbours wrapped, so it was a very hectic time. Jason Herbison wrote a beautifully complex, flawed character in Helen, so I was thrilled to be asked to play her.

The Neighbours finale just aired — did you watch? And what was your reaction?

Yes . . . and thought it was a very elegant resolution. It ended with hope and a lot of positivity. Of course, it was sad to know it was the last episode ever, but I’m so proud of the way we wrapped it all up.

What is next? Will you continue to work in Australia or go further afield to the UK?

I have no idea what will be next, and it’s a marvellous feeling. I plan to stay in Australia and enjoy the summer and lots of free time. What a luxury!

Do you keep in touch with any of your ex-Neighbours colleagues? We’re guessing you’ve made some fantastic friends over the years.

Yes, I’ve caught up with several of the Neighbours cast for various dinners, drinks, coffees etc, and of course my telly husband, Alan Fletcher, will never get rid of me! I feel so lucky to have worked with the most amazing people on the planet.

What has been your career highlight?

I’ve had many career highlights, but I think spending two weeks shooting Neighbours in London for the Susan/Karl/Izzy storyline was right up there. We had so much fun and got to work with some great UK actors who played in guest roles.

Is retirement on the cards or do you hope to continue acting?

Retirement isn’t really something actors do. It’s just unemployment! Although I have to say if doing what you want when you want is retirement, then I’m loving it.

The Imposter starts December 21 at 8pm on Ten.