Nicky Whelan, who rose to fame as Pepper Steiger in the Australian drama, has now hinted that she could set foot in Ramsay Street once again.
During an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk, the 36-year-old admitted that she “always” talked about going back with her on-screen partner Benjamin Hart, who portrayed Adam Rhodes.
Admitting that she wished she could have spent more in Neighbours, Nicky gave fans plenty of hope for a reappearance from Pepper in the future.
“I stay in contact with Benji Hart, he is one of my dearest friends to this day and we always talk about going back,” the actress commented.
Nicky continued: “It would be so weird to go back and play an Australian character. I don’t know if they want Pepper back…”
The film star, who was promoting her new movie Inconceivable, went on to add: “I mean, you never know… It could happen, for sure!”
Pepper was last seen leaving for Cairns after landing a new job and, as she said her goodbyes, Adam emerged with his suitcases in tow. He later returned very briefly, telling friends he was going to ask her to marry him.
Meanwhile, Nicky also spoke about her big-screen thriller, which sees her play a mysterious live-in nanny called Katie opposite the likes of Nicolas Cage and Eva Marie.
Addressing her topless scene in the film, Nicky added: “Lets be honest, this isn’t the first time I’ve been topless. I did a topless scene in Hall Pass as well. That was more freaky for me.
“It’s fine… there’s so much nudity in TV and movies now, that I don’t take it as seriously as when I was in my 20s. If they still want me to get my top off, I’m very flattered.”
Inconceivable is out on DVD, VOD and Digital tomorrow, August 28.
Neighbours airs weekdays at 1.45pm and 5.30pm on Channel 5.