Neighbours star Annie Jones reveals the heartbreaking reason she put her career on hold

Neighbours star Annie Jones has revealed the heartbreaking reason why she turned her back on her successful acting career after leaving Neighbours in 1989.

The 53-year-old chose to put her career on hold to look after her late mother, Elizabeth, who battled Alzheimer’s disease and died in 2016. 

Annie told The Mirror she had ‘no regrets’ about her decision, and said that looking after her mother had made her a ‘better person’.

‘I think you learn from the stuff that life throws at you, that’s what it’s all about, life experiences,’ Annie said.

She added: ‘Anyone who has had anything to do with Alzheimer’s or dementia will know what it’s like.

‘It’s heartbreaking, seeing someone disappear before your eyes.’

Annie’s mother, who was based in Melbourne, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s five years after her daughter left Neighbours.

On Monday, Annie revealed that she would be returning to Ramsay Street as a series regular.

She had famously played Jane Harris, better known as ‘Plain Jane Superbrain’, during the show’s glory years from 1986 to 1989.

‘Jane is returning to her old neighbourhood and bringing with her an insight into what her life away from Ramsay Street has been like for the past 30 years,’ Annie said in a statement.

She added: ‘Audiences will learn more about her family life, as fans are introduced to her daughter for the first time.’ 

Of course, it’s not the first time Annie has been welcomed back on Ramsay Street.

Earlier this year, she surprised viewers when she appeared in a guest role for the soap’s 35th anniversary.

Neighbours airs weeknights 6:30pm on 10 Peach