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For the character introduced in 2021, see List of Neighbours characters (2021) § Sheila Canning.

Sheila Canning
Neighbours character
Portrayed byColette Mann
Duration2012–2022
First appearance3 May 2012 (2012-05-03)
ClassificationPresent; regular (departing)
Introduced byRichard Jasek and Susan Bower
Spin-off
appearances
In-universe information
Occupation
  • Barmaid
  • Legal secretary
  • Executive bar manager
HusbandFrank Canning[1]
SonsGary Canning
Frank Canning Jr.[1]
DaughtersNaomi Canning
Grandsons
GranddaughtersXanthe Canning

Sheila Canning is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Colette Mann. The character was teased by the show's executive producer Richard Jasek in January 2012. The following month Mann's casting was announced. She had previously appeared in the soap in 1995, temporarily taking over the role of Cheryl Stark for eight weeks. Mann made her debut screen appearance as Sheila during the episode broadcast on 3 May 2012. After taking a brief break to appear in a play, Mann was promoted to the regular cast. Sheila was created as a "warmer" version of 80s character Nell Mangel (Vivean Gray) and a resident stickybeak.

Sheila was introduced as the grandmother of established character Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan). She is a widow and the matriarch of the Canning family. She often meddles in her family's business, believing she knows what is best for them. Mann described Sheila as being "pushy, slightly controlling – and a little bit of a gossip", while reporters called her "opinionated" and "over-affectionate". Sheila comes to Erinsborough to visit Kyle and she instantly clashes with his then girlfriend Jade Mitchell (Gemma Pranita). She also develops a rivalry with Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver). Sheila has had romantic relationships with Walter Mitchell (Chris Haywood), Russell Brennan (Russell Kiefel) and Clive Gibbons (Geoff Paine). Further exploration of the character's background began with the introductions of her children Naomi Canning (Morgana O'Reilly) and Gary Canning (Damien Richardson) in 2014. The character has been well received by television critics. In February 2022, Mann confirmed that she had departed the show, with Sheila's exit taking place off-screen. Her final scenes aired on 8 February in the UK and 16 February in Australia.

Casting

During a January 2012 interview with a TV Week writer, Neighbours executive producer Richard Jasek commented that viewers would see more of Kyle Canning's (Chris Milligan) family, starting with the introduction of his grandmother later in the year. Jasek said the character would be quite big in all senses.[2] On 8 February 2012, it was announced Colette Mann had rejoined the cast of Neighbours as Sheila Canning.[3] Mann previously appeared in the show in 1995, when she temporarily took over the role of Cheryl Stark for eight weeks when Caroline Gillmer fell ill.[3] She was one of three actresses who auditioned for the part.[4] Mann stated that she was looking forward to working with Milligan, saying "Chris is a lovely boy, however like my sons, he'll wonder what has hit him after working with me for a few weeks."[5] Mann made her screen debut as Sheila on 3 May 2012.[6]

Sheila initially started out as a guest character, but eventually become a member of the regular cast.[5][7] Mann took a short break from Neighbours in July 2012 to appear in a play.[8] Mann said that plans for her to appear in the play had been made before she took on the role of Sheila.[7] Milligan confirmed that Mann had returned to filming in September 2012.[9] In March 2013, Mann commented that she was enjoying working on Neighbours and things had become more natural now that there was a familiarity with Sheila.[7] When asked if she had put her own stamp on Sheila, Mann explained that playing a regular character meant that she got to know them better than anyone and she had subconsciously added layers. She added that the producers and directors allowed her "great leeway" with her lines.[7] In October 2013, Susan Hill from the Daily Star reported that Mann had signed a new contract keeping her with Neighbours for another year.[10]

Development

Characterisation

Mann confirmed that the original idea for Sheila was to be "a warmer Mrs Mangel" and the show's resident "nosy stickybeak".[11] Before her introduction, Sheila was described by a Herald Sun reporter as being "opinionated" and someone who would ruffle feathers.[3] Susan Hill from the Daily Star commented that Sheila was "over-affectionate", but "lovable".[12] In her newspaper column, Mann called Sheila "a pushy, slightly controlling – and a little bit of a gossip – grandmother."[13] She wrote that she had to do "a great deal of research" as the character is so far removed from her own personality.[13] Mann later told TV Week's Andrew Mercado that Sheila's arrival would be like "a galleon in full sail" and that she loved injecting some humour into the show.[14] Mann later explained that she brought in for her comedic abilities, and that she had based some aspects of Sheila's personality on her own mother.[15] A writer for the show's official website revealed that Sheila was a widow who often meddled in her family's business.[16] They explained "If she knows what's best for her kids and grandkids – and she always does – she'll do whatever it takes to achieve it, even if that means being underhanded."[16]

Mann told an Inside Soap writer that Sheila was the matriarch of the Canning family, who loved her grandson Kyle "very much". The actress suspected that Kyle was actually Sheila's favourite.[17] Sheila likes to know what is happening to everyone else around her and is more than willing to offer her advice if it is asked for.[16] The writer stated that while Sheila is not intellectual, she does have good instincts and "a sharp sense of humour".[16] However, she is quick to make judgements about other people and has no time for political correctness.[16] In March 2013, Mann called Sheila "a tough old bird" and quipped that she has some endearing characteristics, but they can be harder to find.[7] The actress also branded the character "a first-class meddler" and stated that she often speaks her mind, which is one of the only things Mann has in common with her.[7]

Interfering in Kyle's love life

After deciding to visit her grandson Kyle, Sheila turns up unannounced on his doorstep and is "thrilled" to see him.[17] Mann thought that Sheila was getting sick of waiting for Kyle to visit her in Frankston, so she came to him instead. Sheila was also interested in meeting Kyle's girlfriend, Jade Mitchell (Gemma Pranita).[17] Mann said that Sheila had already heard a few things about Jade and had made her mind up about her already; she was the wrong girl for her grandson.[17] While looking around Kyle's handyman business, Sheila meets Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer) and mistakes her for Jade.[14] Impressed by Kate's manners and politeness, Sheila is then left to wonder whether Kate should be "in her precious grandson's life" instead.[14][18] When Sheila finally meets Jade, she is underwhelmed by her brashness and does not hold back her opinion towards her.[14][18]

Jade becomes frustrated and her attitude convinces Sheila that the conservative Kate is really the one for Kyle.[14] A show spokesperson commented "Sheila adores Kyle and would do absolutely anything for him, which rubs Jade up the wrong way. Everyone can expect the sparks to fly between the two women in his life. It's going to be a very tricky time for Kyle as he tries to please them both."[12] Sheila informs Kyle that Jade is not marriage material and that Kate would be better for him.[18] Sheila decides to meddle in Kyle's love life, but Mann believed that it was out of love as Sheila just wanted Kyle to be happy.[17] Although Sheila does not get on with Jade, she decides to stay around to keep an eye on Kyle.[12]

When Kyle starts spending time with Georgia Brooks (Saskia Hampele), Sheila becomes concerned that Georgia is trying to seduce him, even though she has a boyfriend.[7] When asked whether Sheila would warm to Georgia, Mann replied that everyone "goes through a screening process with Sheila", but because family means a lot to her, her grandson's welfare always comes first. She gives anyone who becomes close to him a hard time for a while.[7] After accusing Georgia of leading Kyle on, Sheila encourages her grandson to pursue a relationship with Jana Noviac (Kyrie Capri).[19] Sheila also clashes with Georgia's aunt, Angie Rebecchi (Lesley Baker), who has noticed the sexual tension between Georgia and Kyle too. The two women end up defending their families.[19]

Relationships

Lou Carpenter

Sheila developed a rivalry with Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver), but when questioned about a potential romance between the characters, Mann thought it would be best if they stayed "at each other's throats".[7] She said that the rivalry would provide the writers with more scope in terms of humorous storylines for the pair. Mann added that she and Oliver had already had a romance when she filled in as Cheryl Stark, who was Lou's partner.[7] Later episodes hinted at a spark between Sheila and Lou. Jasek was also asked if he would like them to embark on a romance and explained that it was an interesting idea and one that was still being discussed.[20] He continued "We have certainly thought of putting them together – it's an obvious direction to go in – however I think the best humour comes from their constant sparring with each other and some of their stories coming up are just hilarious."[20] In October 2013, Mann reiterated that Sheila and Lou should not be put together, believing that their relationship was better when they were fighting.[21]

Chris Haywood played Walter Mitchell, a love interest for Sheila.

Walter Mitchell

In March 2013, Mann teased the arrival of a potential love interest for Sheila, saying "her attention is somewhat diverted by a visitor to Erinsborough."[7] In June 2013, Walter Mitchell (Chris Haywood) was introduced to the show and Digital Spys Daniel Kilkelly reported that one of the local Ramsay Street residents would become "smitten" with him.[22] Shortly after meeting Sheila, Walter "flirts outrageously" with her, which she reciprocates.[23] Walter later embarks on a plan to steal Sheila's personal identification number (PIN), so he can access her bank account.[23] Sheila is unaware of his intentions as she is charmed by Walter's "romantic overtures" towards her. Walter later packs his bags and departs Erinsborough, leaving his niece Sonya Rebecchi (Eve Morey) and Sheila devastated.[23] Mann said she enjoyed having Walter in Sheila's life and called him "a bit of a rotter", commenting that no one can be happy for too long in Erinsborough. Mann also said that a woman does not need a man to be happy and she believed Sheila was happy on her own.[21]

Russell Brennan

Two years later, a new love interest for Sheila was introduced in the form of Russell Brennan (Russell Kiefel), the father of the Brennan brothers.[24] As their romance progresses, Kyle worries that his grandmother will get hurt, while Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns) is not happy that his father is planning to stay around for longer.[24] Sheila later suggests that Russell buys the local garage Fitzgerald Motors and offers to lend him the money he needs, causing concern from her family and friends.[24] When Sheila sees Angie Rebecchi talking to Russell, she becomes jealous of their friendship.[25] Angie decides to deliberately flirt with Russell to wind Sheila up. Russell later walks in on the two women "scrapping like teenagers".[25] Baker said the scenes were "great fun" to film, and she and Mann decided to play them up a little as they knew each other well.[25] It soon emerges that Russell had physically abused Tyler when he was younger. Russell apologises, but his sons asks him to return to Port Lincoln.[26] Of Sheila's reaction, Mann explained, "Russell was the first man she'd been interested in since her husband died, so it was part of her way of starting again. But, she's not prepared to put up with that sort of behaviour."[26] Sheila tells Russell that he needs to work on his issues and watches on as his taxi leaves the street.[26]

Clive Gibbons

Sheila embarks on a romance with Clive Gibbons (Geoff Paine) in 2017.[27] Mann told Johnathon Hughes of the Radio Times that she was "excited" upon learning that Sheila would date Clive.[11] Clive and Sheila initially clash when he wrongly accuses Xanthe of stealing hospital medication. Sheila later learns that he is attracted to her because she is "fiery" and "a bit barmy".[11] When they meet each other again, Clive asks if they can start over and she agrees to go out on a date with him.[11] Clive tells Sheila that he will take her to an art gallery, but she feels that she will be out of her depth and asks Paul Robinson for his help.[11] Mann told Hughes, "Sheila is already nervous about the date because she was married to the same man for 25 years, but it was a very comfortable relationship with not much spark. This is different. Clive is chief operating officer at the hospital, she thinks he's above her intellectually and is a bit intimidated."[11] Hughes thought Clive and Sheila were opposites, but Mann thought that this was the reason why their relationship could work.[11] Sheila relationship with Clive is short lived, ending when she receives a letter from Russell, who tells her he is ill and wants to reconcile with her.[11] The actress enjoyed working with Paine during the storyline, as she had known him for a number of years and they once acted in a play together.[27] Mann also confirmed that series producer Jason Herbison had promised to reintroduce Clive into Sheila's life "with a big bang".[27]

Anxiety issues

During a story meeting, Mann asked why her character was not given a dramatic storyline and the writers agreed that she should have one.[21] Sheila's storyline was tied up with Chris Pappas's (James Mason) story. When Chris takes some sleeping tablets and leaves the house while sleepwalking, Sheila chases after him dressed only in a nightie, a dressing gown and a pair of Ugg boots.[21] During the chase, Sheila is approached by Derek Blasko (John Jones) in his car and he tries to solicit her, which she dislikes. Sheila initially dismisses the event, but a few days later when she thinks about it, she reacts badly.[21] Because of the restrictive time slot in Australia, Derek was not allowed to be shown approaching or touching Sheila.[21] Mann explained "I said, 'Look, this is all a bit silly. Sheila is a tough old nut so she'd probably just tell him to get lost and keep walking!' There wasn't much we could do about it because of the restrictions, so then we decided that it will come out further in a story, much later on, that this reminded her of a time when a much worse thing happened to her. Back when she was younger and managing the hotels in Frankston, she was attacked by two men in the back car park."[21] Mann said the next layer of the story would play out in a few months time and it would see Sheila suffer flashbacks, which become "really bad".[21] Sheila refuses to talk about it and Mann added that the point they are trying to make is that it is best to talk about things.[21]

Family introductions and heart attack

In October 2013, Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Sheila's youngest daughter would be introduced, after producers decided to explore Sheila's background further.[28] Sheila's daughter had previously been mentioned on-screen several times before her arrival, with Sheila still restless about an argument that resulted in a large falling out between them.[28] Morgana O'Reilly was cast as Naomi Canning soon afterwards, and began appearing from March.[29] Naomi and Sheila were seen to clash regularly, as fives years prior Sheila had discovered Naomi's affair with a married man and told his wife.[30] Sheila was pleased to see Naomi, but she was suspicious of her sudden urge to see her. Mann said, "Sheila has learned the hard way that there is always an agenda with Naomi. Nothing is ever as it seems."[30] Sheila later believed Naomi was having another affair and accused her of repeating her past mistakes. However, after Naomi threatened to leave, Sheila promised not to interfere in her life anymore and allowed Naomi to move in.[31] Mann said the producers were "starting to bring in her family over the next six months", and added that "hopefully there'll also be... an older male (coming in)", but warned that Sheila does not get on with him either.[29]

The second of Sheila's children to be introduced was her son Gary (Damien Richardson), Kyle's estranged father.[32] Gary appeared for a guest stint from November 2014.[33] Although bonding with Gary again initially, like she had done with Naomi, Sheila later realised he was intent on fleeing Erinsborough, leaving her to pick up the pieces with Kyle. She also discovered he was responsible for a vicious attack, ordered by Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis). When she failed to stop Gary fleeing, Sheila suffered a massive heart attack on Christmas Day.[34] Naomi found her mother unconscious on the living room floor and immediately called Karl Kennedy for help. Sheila was rushed to the hospital, where her family waited by her bedside for news of her condition.[35] Naomi initially assumed that she was to blame for causing Sheila's heart attack as she had argued with her mother earlier in the day. However, when Gary turned up, he revealed that it was his fault.[35] A "furious" Naomi then told Kyle that the reason Gary walked out on the family was due to his involvement in a robbery.[35]

Departure

On 7 February 2022, it was announced that Mann was not currently filming on the serial.[36] Digital Spy's Daniel Kilkelly reported that Sheila leaves for New York after learning that Naomi's partner has died and she is in need of help to look after her partner's children.[36] Subsequent scenes will see the Cannings talk about the situation, but Sheila's exit will be off-screen in scenes airing the following week.[36] On 9 February, Mann confirmed her departure from Neighbours, after her final scenes aired in the UK the previous day.Cite error: A <ref> tag is missing the closing </ref> (see the help page). Claire Crick from All About Soap quipped "Sheila doesn't exactly strike us as someone who beats around the bush".[18] A reporter for the Belfast Telegraph called Sheila a "busybody".[37] Dianne Butler, writing for news.com.au, praised the character and actress, saying "That Sheila's a canny old biddy. She's outfoxing Tash, who's pretty wily herself. I'm loving Colette Mann."[38]

In June 2013, Butler quipped "Sheila did time on Prisoner so I say what Sheila wants she should get."[39] Melissa Field from TV Week enjoyed Sheila ripping into Alan when she learned his secret, but quipped "unlucky-in-love Sheila can't get a break."[40] During his end-of-year review, Daniel Kilkelly (Digital Spy) praised Mann as being one of the better additions to the cast and observed that Sheila "has lightened up the Street with wit, warmth and some memorable one-liners."[41] When Sheila met Russell, Claire Crick of All About Soap commented "look out for Sheila in full flirtation mode when she gets to know the new arrival...these two are about to hit it off – big time."[42] Jonathan Hughes of the Radio Times branded Sheila "Ramsay Street's resident battleaxe" and a "gobby granny".[11]

At the 2016 and 2017 Digital Spy Reader Awards, Sheila received nominations for the Funniest Character accolade.[43][44] Ahead of Sheila's off-screen departure for New York, Kilkelly named Sheila the Ramsay Street matriach.[36]

References

  1. ^ a b Mann, Collette (23 June 2020). The Complicated Canning Family Tree. Neighbours via YouTube. Retrieved 15 July 2021.
  2. ^ "What's ahead on Ramsay Street?". TV Week (1): 16–17. 7–13 January 2012.
  3. ^ a b c "Chris Milligan set to Mann up". Herald Sun. Melbourne. 8 February 2012. Retrieved 7 February 2012.
  4. ^ "Getting married on screen is really weird!". Inside Soap (42): 52–53. 25–31 October 2014.
  5. ^ a b Kilkelly, Daniel (7 February 2012). "'Neighbours' casts 'Prisoner' star as Kyle Canning's grandmother". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved 7 February 2012.
  6. ^ "Thursday, 03-May-2012". Southern Cross Media. Retrieved 16 April 2012.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Kilkelly, Daniel (18 March 2013). "'Neighbours': Colette Mann teases Sheila Canning future". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved 11 June 2013.
  8. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (27 July 2012). "'Neighbours' Christopher Milligan talks Inside Soap Awards, Kyle plots". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved 27 July 2012.
  9. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel; Parker-Williams, Amie (27 September 2012). "'Neighbours' Christopher Milligan: 'Kyle might stay single'". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved 11 June 2013.
  10. ^ Hill, Susan (13 October 2013). "Soaper Star: Neighbours". Daily Star. Northern & Shell. Retrieved 15 October 2013.
  11. ^ a b c d e f g h i Hughes, Johnathon (20 July 2017). "Neighbours: Colette Mann interview – "Sheila and Clive make a dream couple – even though he thinks she's barmy!"". Radio Times. Retrieved 4 December 2017.
  12. ^ a b c Hill, Susan (12 February 2012). "Kyle Canning gets a visit from his Nan". Daily Star. Northern & Shell. Retrieved 12 February 2012.
  13. ^ a b Mann, Colette (7 May 2012). "Colette Mann: Finding the perfect blend". Melbourne Weekly. Fairfax Media. Retrieved 11 May 2012.
  14. ^ a b c d e Mercado, Andrew (28 April – 4 May 2012). "Sheila stirs the pot". TV Week (17): 50.
  15. ^ "Stefan Dennis and I were once boyfriend and girlfriend!". Inside Soap (32): 52–53. 10–16 August 2013.
  16. ^ a b c d e "Sheila Canning". Neighbours.com.au. Eleven. Retrieved 12 June 2013.
  17. ^ a b c d e "G'Day Sheila!". Inside Soap (21): 26. 26 May – 1 June 2012.
  18. ^ a b c d Crick, Claire (31 May 2012). "Neighbours: Kyle & Jade v Kate & Sheila!". All About Soap. Retrieved 9 June 2013.
  19. ^ a b Brown, David (17 March 2013). "Neighbours spoilers: the week ahead in Ramsay St". Radio Times. Immediate Media Company Limited. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  20. ^ a b Kilkelly, Daniel (21 June 2013). "Exclusive: 'Neighbours' producer Richard Jasek shares show gossip, teasers". Digital Spy. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  21. ^ a b c d e f g h i Kilkelly, Daniel (21 October 2013). "'Neighbours' Colette Mann: 'Things get really bad for Sheila'". Digital Spy. Retrieved 8 November 2013.
  22. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (14 June 2013). "'Neighbours' newcomer Walter – new details and picture released". Digital Spy. Retrieved 12 July 2013.
  23. ^ a b c "Heading for a breakdown". Soap World (245): 18. July 2013.
  24. ^ a b c "True romance?". Inside Soap (34): 32. 29 August – 4 September 2015.
  25. ^ a b c "Hands off my man!". Inside Soap (35): 28. 5–11 September 2015.
  26. ^ a b c Wulff, Alana (3–16 September 2015). "Renegade Russell". TV Week Soap Extra (19): 8–9.
  27. ^ a b c Kilkelly, Daniel (17 July 2017). "Neighbours star Colette Mann reveals all on Sheila's new romance and the Canning family's future". Digital Spy. Retrieved 4 December 2017.
  28. ^ a b Kilkelly, Daniel (9 October 2013). "Neighbours to bring in Sheila's daughter". Digital Spy. Retrieved 5 December 2014.
  29. ^ a b Earp, Catherine (30 December 2013). "Morgana O'Reilly cast as Sheila's daughter Naomi". Digital Spy. Retrieved 5 December 2014.
  30. ^ a b "Meet Sheila's daughter!". Inside Soap (13): 26. 5–11 April 2014.
  31. ^ "Trouble comes calling". Soap World (253): 21. March 2014.
  32. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (15 October 2014). "Neighbours to bring in Kyle's estranged father". Digital Spy. Retrieved 5 December 2014.
  33. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (3 November 2014). "Neighbours reveals first picture of Gary Canning". Digital Spy. Retrieved 5 December 2014.
  34. ^ Dainty, Sophie (6 November 2014). "Neighbours character to suffer huge heart attack". Digital Spy. Retrieved 5 December 2014.
  35. ^ a b c "Will Sheila die?". Inside Soap (2): 30. 17–23 January 2015.
  36. ^ a b c d Kilkelly, Daniel (7 February 2022). "Neighbours' Sheila Canning to make surprise exit from Erinsborough". Digital Spy. Retrieved 7 February 2022.
  37. ^ "Best Soaps". Belfast Telegraph. 2 June 2012. Archived from the original on 29 March 2015. Retrieved 18 February 2013.(subscription required)
  38. ^ Butler, Dianne (22 January 2013). "TV with Dianne Butler". news.com.au. Retrieved 9 June 2013.
  39. ^ Butler, Dianne (28 June 2013). "What to watch on TV, with Dianne Butler". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 28 June 2013.
  40. ^ Field, Melissa (19 September 2014). "Friday's pick: Neighbours". TV Week. Retrieved 20 September 2014.
  41. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (5 December 2014). "Ramsay Street revitalised: 7 reasons why Neighbours is back on form". Digital Spy. Retrieved 5 December 2014.
  42. ^ Crick, Claire (12 August 2015). "We're all talking about...another Brennan in Neighbours!". All About Soap. Retrieved 24 April 2016.
  43. ^ Eames, Tom (24 December 2016). "Your Digital Spy Reader Awards soap winners of 2016: Emmerdale wins SIX awards". Digital Spy. Retrieved 10 December 2017.
  44. ^ Sandwell, Ian (30 November 2017). "The Digital Spy Reader Awards 2017: Vote now for your Soaps favourites of the year!". Digital Spy. Retrieved 10 December 2017.
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