Jason Donovan says Neighbours changed his family's life as he admits sadness at axing

Jason Donovan is "sad" about Neighbours being axed - but can't thank the show enough for changing his whole family's life.

The 53-year-old star played Scott Robinson on the soap and he admits the programme completely changed things for him and his whole family, with both his daughter Jemma Donovan and father Terence Donovan also having roles in the show.

He explained how he is devastated about the axing of the show, but he thinks now is the time to "celebrate" all the great things about the Channel 5 soap - which will end later this year after three decades on the screen.

Jason admitted he was sad that the show was being axed (Daily Record)

Him and Kylie Minogue are some of the soap's biggest stars (Channel 5)

Speaking on BBC Breakfast today, he said: "I do think it’s sad, I don’t want to get into a running commentary, I’ve made comments about it. I think it’s time to celebrate Neighbours. It’s kept my family employed for a long time to be honest!

"My daughter is in it, so is my dad. We should be grateful for what it’s given Australia, actors, producers, writers, directors."

Jason's daughter Jemma Donovan also stars on the programme (Fremantle)

He added: "My father in the 70s fought very hard for Australian content in television because the government at the time wanted to bring cheaper exports in. As a result of that, we have productions like Neighbours."

Charlene (Kylie Minogue) and Scott's wedding was one of the biggest storylines in the programme, and bosses are hopeful they can get both of the stars back for a very special finale when the show bows out later this year.

"Kylie has always been a huge supporter of the show - they’re just waiting to hear back," a source shared recently.

Kylie and Jason look very different in soap throwbacks (ST/LFI)

Neighbours turned Jason into a household name (Getty Images)

Earlier this month, Neighbours fans found out the show would be axed permanently after it was unable to find a new home.

"We are so sorry to say that after nearly 37 years and almost 9000 episodes broadcast we have to confirm that Neighbours will cease production in June. Following the loss of our key broadcast partner in the UK and despite an extensive search for alternative funding, we simply have no option but to rest the show," they said in a statement.

"To our amazing, loyal fans, we know this is a huge disappointment, as it is to all of us on the team. We thank you for all your messages and support and promise to end the show on an incredible high. From here on, we are celebrating Neighbours."