Kathleen Ebbs, a newcomer to Neighbours, has opened up on what it was like to be cast as the Australian soap’s first non-binary character.
In an Instagram post on Thursday, Ebbs, who is non-binary, verified the news of their casting (April 28).
The first scenes of their character Asher Nesmith, briefly interacting with Jane Harris and Nicolette Stone at The Waterhole, have already been viewed by UK viewers. Later, Jane informs Nicolette that Asher is no longer single.
According to an official photo, Asher will work at Harold’s Café, which Nicolette now oversees.
“I’m ecstatic to finally share the news that I’ve been cast in the role of Asher Nesmith on @neighbours! Welcoming Ramsey Street’s first non-binary figure, “Ebbs remarked.
“It was an honour to not only be a part of this fantastic ensemble, but also to be that representation I so much wanted as a kid, as someone who grew up watching this classic serial. I hope I’ve done my town proud and that you like Asher as much as I did. I’m here to have a good time, not to stay for a long time!”
They joked about their friends questioning why they were hiding out in Melbourne in a separate Instagram Story before explaining the significance of this new character joining the programme.
“To be honest, being the first non-binary character on Neighbours has been a very emotional experience for me,” Ebbs said.
“A part of me feels the pressure, but I’m grateful that @neighbours picked me to represent young LGBTQ people and educate a wider audience about our presence. Because, yes, we do exist!”
Ebbs also mentioned that their debut performance as Asher Nesmith will be on May 10 in Australia.
With the actor clarifying that their presence will not be a one-off, we can expect to see a lot more of Asher in the future.
