The Australian soap, which first aired in the UK in 1986, could reportedly be dropped if broadcaster Channel 5 fails to agree new terms with makers Fremantle Media.
Insiders told The Mirror today that negotiation talks have slowed between both sides.
A source told the newspaper: “The renegotiation of the Neighbours Channel 5 deal has become very fraught and is in jeopardy.
“Channel 5 really want to keep the show.
“But the failure to reach a deal is being blamed on Channel 5’s new American owners Viacom refusing to sign off on the figures and not understanding the cultural importance of the show in the UK.”
In reaction to the news, Neighbours fans launched a petition on Change.org to urge Channel 5 and Fremantle to come to an agreement.
It says: “Due to issues between production companies, there is a real possibility that, unless an agreement is reached, Neighbours could be axed from UK TV.
“It is a huge part of British culture and has a massive UK following!
“We, the fans, are petitioning to Channel 5 and Fremantle Group to keep Neighbours on our screens!!”
At the time of writing, the petition has been signed by over 3,000 people and has a target of 5,000.
A representative for Channel 5 told Express.co.uk when asked for comment: “We don’t comment on commercial contracts.”
Neighbours airs weekdays on Channel 5 at 1.45pm and 5.30pm.
Daily Express :: TV and Radio Feed
