Shane Connor Takes Neighbours To Court
2nd November 2005

A high profile court battle is currently being played out in Australia in which Shane Connor, who played Joe Scully in the soap, is claiming $200,000 from the Neighbours production company Grundy due to loss of earnings.

The interest in the wrangling between the two parties is heightened by the fact that a very tight seal was placed on the reasons for the stars overnight dismissal 2 years ago in 2003. This lack of information left many to speculate on what Shane Conner may have done to warrant such a swift and final decision from the Neighbours team.

As the trial began it soon became apparent the reasons for the sacking were pretty severe. It was revealed that Shane Connor had a drug problem and alleged drink problem. He is also accused of turning up to the Neighbours in a bad state, often late, and not turning up for filming when needed.

Several Neighbours actor have taken to the stand to explain the feelings of the team about Shane's actions. There was a general concern about the actor at the time of his dismissal. Concerns were also raised about his bullying behavior and fears for Ingo Dammer-Smith, the actor who plays the Scully's baby son Oscar onscreen, as he was held by a shaky Shane.

All this insight in the goings on around the Neighbours set stands in stark contrast to it's self portrayed family friendly nature. Some of the advertisers who sponsor the show (with their adverts being displayed in the ending credits after each episode in Australia) have expressed worries about these recent developments and may retract their funding.