View Full Version : Vanessa Villante
Neighbours bosses have today announced the casting of actress Alin Sumarwata as new regular character Vanessa Villante.
Vanessa is a professional chef who will make her first appearance in Erinsborough in early 2012, before quickly turning the life of one male resident upside down.
Show chiefs have teased that Vanessa is "no wallflower" and viewers will see her embracing life to the fullest as soon as she makes her arrival.
In real life, meanwhile, Sumarwata has moved to Melbourne with her husband and their 2-month-old daughter for her new role.
Sumarwata commented: "I'm very excited about joining Neighbours - this caps off a busy year for us."
She added: "The fact she is always eating mirrors my life - I adore food."
Sumarwata filmed her first scene for Neighbours last week and she will make her debut on Australian screens in March.
The actress has previously appeared in Sea Patrol, East West 101 and Tangle.
Neighbours mechanic Lucas Fitzgerald is in for a shock when newcomer Vanessa Villante informs him that she is pregnant with his baby.
The Ramsay Street regular, played by Scott Major, hears the bombshell news after enjoying a one-night stand with Vanessa.
Struggling to accept his responsibilities as a father, Lucas then tries to drive Vanessa away from Erinsborough.
A Neighbours source told the Daily Star: "Lucas is not accepting his responsibilities and wants Vanessa to disappear - but she has other ideas.
"She gets a job as head chef at Lassiter's and he's furious. He goes straight to Paul Robinson and tells him not to hire her as she's pregnant."
Neighbours bosses announced the casting of actress Alin Sumarwata as Vanessa late last year.
Fans in Australia have already seen Vanessa's introduction, while she makes her debut on UK screens next month.
tammyy2j
26-03-2012, 16:01
I wanna see Lucas happy
I thought Lucas would want to face up to his responsibilities.
Vanessa Villante sounds like a name for a Porn Star
I thought Lucas would want to face up to his responsibilities.
He wanted to raise Steph and Dan's baby with Steph I think
Neighbours' UK fans see newcomer Vanessa Villante remain at the centre of drama next week as her feelings for Rhys Lawson grow.
The pregnant chef has a clear attraction to Rhys (Ben Barber) and won't listen when her unborn baby's father Lucas tries to warn that the doctor is bad news.
However, just as Vanessa is ready to embark on a relationship with Rhys, she is stunned to witness him angrily ranting at Susan Kennedy for spending time with his mother Elaine at the hospital. Having seen Rhys's nasty side for herself, will Vanessa be deterred from pursuing a future with him?
In real life, actress Alin Sumarwata was cast as Vanessa late last year, moving to Melbourne from Sydney with her husband and their baby daughter for the role. Here, Alin chats to Digital Spy about her storyline.
After a few months filming at Neighbours, how have you settled in so far?
"Everything happened so quickly and it coincided with the move from Sydney - it was very chaotic at first and it did take a while. I felt I was coming to work, then dashing back to the baby between scenes - very full on! However, now I feel settled and I know what to expect."
Vanessa is already stirring up life in Ramsay Street thanks to her pregnancy. How did you feel about getting such a big storyline straight away?
"To be honest, I didn't realise in the beginning how significant it was and now I feel very lucky. What a great way to get people talking about a new character!"
We've obviously seen Vanessa for ourselves, but how do you describe her to people?
"She is impulsive, excitable and doesn't let much get her down and wears her heart on her sleeve."
How do you think the Neighbours fans are responding to Vanessa?
"I guess it is still early days, however I gather from Neighbours' digital department - who look after the website and social media - fans are really liking her, which is great considering she arrived with no back-story.
"I actually wouldn't blame fans for being suspicious of her - 'What are her motives?', 'Where did she come from?', etc. Maybe they are and that makes her interesting!"
Now that Lucas is being more supportive of Vanessa, how is she feeling about the pregnancy?
"She is definitely feeling more settled and confident. I think she understands Lucas better so they're not at odds as much."
How does Vanessa feel about Rhys? What can you tell us about their row next week?
"She has been quite torn and also not sure of his motives in these very unusual circumstances. She is definitely attracted to him but she is still guarded.
"When Vanessa sees Rhys shouting at Susan, it throws everything off for her - it really rocks the boat. She can't help thinking that she could be in that situation with him down the track. She is scared it forecasts something darker in the future.
"Later, Rhys tries to fix things by opening up to Vanessa and she is relieved - she wants to see the good side in him because there is that attraction."
Will the tension between Lucas and Rhys remain for quite some time?
"Definitely. These are two bulls who are not going to change!"
We've heard that Rhys and Vanessa will indeed be getting together despite the early problems. Do you think they'll make a strong pairing?
"They still have a major hurdle to cross - the baby! So they have a lot ahead of them. Also, intellectually I don't think they are on the same playing field. Their attitude toward some things may be similar, but they are in different lines of work. He is ambitious, whereas she is happy with her lot. I think it's too early to say how they will fare in the future."
As a new character, there's a lot of scope for the writers to explore Vanessa's past. Do you know if there are any plans for this?
"Most definitely it is in the pipeline which will add a whole new dimension to Vanessa..."
How have you found settling into Melbourne after moving from Sydney?
"It's been so full on with the baby, moving and now Neighbours. I'm looking forward to our production breaks so I can see a bit more of Melbourne.
"We purposely moved close to the studio so I could manage work and also being close to the baby, so my life really is work, rush back home to the baby, then back to work - I actually miss Melbourne!"
Is it difficult to balance filming with your family commitments?
"You just do it. I'm not sure if it's easy or difficult because I honestly don't know any other way now. And I think if I focus on the difficult part of it, it will end up that way. I love both sides of my life so I'm making it work."
Is there anyone in particular who you've made friends with on the set?
"I couldn't single out any one person - everyone has been so wonderful and supportive. I think I'm very spoilt."
What else is ahead for Vanessa?
"There will definitely be more revealed about her background, which I think will surprise a lot of people on the street - some parts will be embraced, while other aspects will be questioned. And there is heartbreak of course…"
I think Rhys is only interested in Vanessa because he probably knows it won't last long,with her being pregnant to Lucas.He just likes to go after woman who are involved with someone else,like with Jade for example.
homeawayjsk
28-06-2012, 17:56
Looks like Rhys is becoming a better person. I hope Rhys and Vanessa get together and their relationship lasts long. They make a good match....
Neighbours' UK fans are introduced to Vanessa Villante's overbearing mother Francesca in the coming days, sparking a big storyline for the pregnant chef.
Vanessa is startled by Francesca's visit to Erinsborough and finds herself lying about her personal situation, letting her mum believe that she and Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major) are a proper couple.
Determined to make sure that her daughter does things properly before the baby is born, Francesca (Carmelina di Guglielmo) insists that Vanessa should marry Lucas. A smitten Lucas is happy to go ahead with it, but can Vanessa let the deception go so far when she still loves Rhys Lawson?
Digital Spy recently caught up with Alin Sumarwata, who plays Vanessa, to hear more about the storyline.
What was your reaction when you found out that Vanessa's mother would be paying a visit to Ramsay Street?
"I was really excited because it meant exploring her background, which up until then was a bit of a mystery!"
How would you describe the character of Francesca?
"A dragon! The woman is so overbearing and doesn't give Vanessa any credit at all. It's pretty clear that their relationship has been strained for quite a while, which is why Vanessa left the family and there has been very little contact. Can you blame her for staying away?"
Why does Vanessa feel like she can't be honest with Francesca when it comes to Lucas and their baby?
"Her family are strict Catholics and a baby out of wedlock is just not accepted, while a baby as a result of a one-night stand is an even bigger sin! Vanessa knows exactly what Francesca's reaction will be."
How difficult is it for Vanessa and Lucas to appear believable as a couple when they try to deceive Francesca?
"It actually isn't that difficult for Lucas because he would like the kind of relationship they are fabricating to be his reality. For Vanessa, it's different. She is still in love with Rhys and the idea of being with Lucas is the last thing on her mind. Poor Lucas!"
How do Vanessa and Lucas feel about Francesca's demand that they should get married?
"Vanessa is in shock and while it freaks out Lucas at first, he starts to come around to the idea. In the back of his mind, he is hoping it might bring them together."
Francesca threatens to cut Vanessa off from the family if she doesn't go ahead with the wedding. Is this a genuine threat?
"Absolutely, which is what Vanessa is petrified of. While the relationship with her mother is very fragile, she is still her mother. She doesn't want to bring up the baby without her immediate family."
The sham wedding will be a big story for Neighbours in the coming weeks. What kind of dramas can we expect in the build-up to the big day?
"Well you have a bride who doesn't want to be there, a mother who desperately needs a wedding, a groom who knows that the bride is hanging by a thread, and a lover who wants to prove he should be with the bride!"
How about the wedding itself, which is about to air in Australia?
"Ah, it certainly doesn't go to plan and the guests are left bewildered…"
Did you enjoy working with Carmelina on the storyline?
"She was wonderful. Carmelina is such a respected actor here and brings so much energy to the scenes. It was a great experience."
How strong are Vanessa's feelings for Rhys despite their break-up? Do you think there's a chance they could get back together?
"She loves him deeply, but I think it's a case of really bad timing for them. In other circumstances, I think they would be great together, they balance each other."
Do you think Vanessa could ever look at Lucas in a romantic light again?
"Hmmm, he is so kind to Vanessa that I think she could develop feelings, but whether that can happen with Rhys still on the scene is the challenge."
Looking at Vanessa's situation objectively, do you have a gut feeling on which love interest is best-suited to your character?
"I think Rhys challenges her and there is definitely a passion between them. I'm not sure if there will ever be that passion with Lucas."
Looking ahead to the next few weeks, we hear that your character may have a big role to play in the 2012 season finale! Can you give us any hints on what to expect?
"A full-on labour, followed by baby and some life-changing events for Lucas and Vanessa…"
Will the start of 2013 be quieter for Vanessa after such a busy few months?
"Absolutely not! Her journey has just begun, there's lots more to come."
Neighbours bosses have just announced a whole string of returns and new castings. What is the atmosphere like on set as the show enjoys this new burst of energy?
"It's sad saying goodbye to cast members, but that is part of this business - we all move onto other projects. It's great working with new people but it's funny how quickly everyone settles in, and before long it feels like they have been there forever. You feel very welcome at Neighbours."
Also ahead on Neighbours, Rhys Lawson finally plucks up the courage to propose to Vanessa Villante after she gives birth to a baby boy.
Rhys (Ben Barber) is at Vanessa's side all the way after she goes into labour, stepping in to offer his support in place of the baby's father Lucas Fitzgerald, who is out of town with no idea of what is going on back at home.
Lucas (Scott Major) has taken a trip to see Vanessa's strict mother Francesca, hoping that he can convince her to make peace with her daughter. However, his timing couldn't be worse as he looks set to miss the birth of his first child.
At the Erinsborough Hospital, Rhys talks Vanessa (Alin Sumarwata) through the birth and can sense that their old bond is finally being re-established.
When Vanessa's baby is born safely, Rhys finally declares his love for her and spontaneously proposes… Does this mean that Lucas has lost his final chance with Vanessa?
http://i1.cdnds.net/13/03/618x398/soaps-neighbours-6550-3.jpg
© Channel 5
http://i1.cdnds.net/13/03/618x403/soaps-neighbours-6550-5.jpg
© Channel 5
http://i1.cdnds.net/13/03/618x412/soaps-neighbours-6550-6.jpg
© Channel 5
Neighbours airs these scenes on Friday, February 1 at 1.45pm and 5.30pm on Channel 5.
LostVoodoo
21-01-2013, 17:15
That's not just a newborn baby, it's HUGE!
walsh2509
01-02-2013, 14:10
So because Lucas isn't by her side during the birth, she says yes to marrying the slime ball.
CrazyLea
06-02-2013, 01:19
I quite like Rhys actually.
But Vanessa and Lucas are a much better suited couple!!
CrazyLea
06-02-2013, 01:19
I quite like Rhys actually.
But Vanessa and Lucas are a much better suited couple!!
Neighbours' Vanessa Villante and Lucas Fitzgerald will be shocked when she discovers that she is expecting another baby.
The discovery comes after Lauren Turner (Kate Kendall) jokingly suggests that Vanessa (Alin Sumarwata) could be pregnant as she has become increasingly forgetful.
However, the couple's happiness is overshadowed by financial issues as well as concern that their unborn baby could inherit the same illness as their son Patrick.
Sumarwata said to TV Week : "Vanessa definitely thinks the timing is not swell, given their situation. She was hoping they would be more financially stable before having any more children.
"Lucas can't really believe it when she tells him. He's happy of course, but obviously quite shaken.
"I think Patrick's health plays on their mind a bit. The thought of seeing another child suffer so much is unbearable but the chance of life and happiness drives her."
Deciding to make the best of the situation, Lucas decides he may have to accept Paul's dismal offer on his house, leaving the Turners with no choice but to move out.
Sumarwata said: "Both Vanessa and Lucas are hard-working individuals who have an entrepreneurial spirit.
"Vanessa takes this opportunity to leap right into launching her own cupcake business.
"Plus, Lucas will look into more ways to improve his garage and if they continue to be strong for each other and work towards a common goal, they will not only cope, but overcome this."
Neighbours' Vanessa Villante and Lucas Fitzgerald will be shocked when she discovers that she is expecting another baby.
The discovery comes after Lauren Turner (Kate Kendall) jokingly suggests that Vanessa (Alin Sumarwata) could be pregnant as she has become increasingly forgetful.
However, the couple's happiness is overshadowed by financial issues as well as concern that their unborn baby could inherit the same illness as their son Patrick.
Sumarwata said to TV Week : "Vanessa definitely thinks the timing is not swell, given their situation. She was hoping they would be more financially stable before having any more children.
"Lucas can't really believe it when she tells him. He's happy of course, but obviously quite shaken.
"I think Patrick's health plays on their mind a bit. The thought of seeing another child suffer so much is unbearable but the chance of life and happiness drives her."
Deciding to make the best of the situation, Lucas decides he may have to accept Paul's dismal offer on his house, leaving the Turners with no choice but to move out.
Sumarwata said: "Both Vanessa and Lucas are hard-working individuals who have an entrepreneurial spirit.
"Vanessa takes this opportunity to leap right into launching her own cupcake business.
"Plus, Lucas will look into more ways to improve his garage and if they continue to be strong for each other and work towards a common goal, they will not only cope, but overcome this."
Neighbours' Vanessa Villante and Lucas Fitzgerald will be shocked when she discovers that she is expecting another baby.
But it sounds like Lucas won't be around to see another baby :(
I hope Lucas, Vanessa and family leave together. I'll be really upset if he dies :thumbsdow
tammyy2j
24-07-2013, 21:25
Where is Lucas and Vanessa living so if Lauren and her family are in Lucas's house?
Where is Lucas and Vanessa living so if Lauren and her family are in Lucas's house?
They're living in Susan's old flat and renting their house to Lauren and family. I know, it doesn't make sense, does it?
LostVoodoo
25-07-2013, 16:54
They're living in Susan's old flat and renting their house to Lauren and family. I know, it doesn't make sense, does it?
I think he bought the house with the money he inherited, didn't he? I suppose it's an investment, Susan's apartment isn't a shoebox and they'll have a decent income from the rent of the house. You would assume they'd have to move once Patrick gets bigger (and there's another on the way!) but for now it makes sense.
LostVoodoo
25-07-2013, 16:54
They're living in Susan's old flat and renting their house to Lauren and family. I know, it doesn't make sense, does it?
I think he bought the house with the money he inherited, didn't he? I suppose it's an investment, Susan's apartment isn't a shoebox and they'll have a decent income from the rent of the house. You would assume they'd have to move once Patrick gets bigger (and there's another on the way!) but for now it makes sense.
i think when paddy was sick they lived near the hospital was this in susan's flat?
gillyH1981
13-09-2015, 15:29
Behind the scenes of Lucas & Vanessa's return.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmMLX8H43bU
gillyH1981
18-10-2015, 15:50
Alin Sumarwata will be making anothe 1 episode guest return as Vanessa on 10th November in Australia and 24th November in the UK.
she is back for sonya exit funeral
Pantherboy
08-02-2019, 21:29
she is back for sonya exit funeral
This is the Digital Spy article:
Neighbours is bringing back Vanessa Villante for Sonya's exit storyline
Alin Sumarwata has confirmed the rumours.
https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/neighbours/a26248742/neighbours-spoilers-vanessa-villante-return-sonyas-exit-storyline/
Neighboours star Alin Sumarwata has confirmed that she will be reprising her role as Vanessa Villante for Sonya's exit storyline.
The actress filmed a brief stint with the Australian soap last year, with Vanessa's return likely to tie in with Sonya's heartbreaking send-off.
Alin – who played Vanessa from 2012 to 2015 – confirmed the news on Twitter yesterday, when she responded to a fan who had shown excitement about her upcoming comeback.
"No way would I have not been there for it", Alin said in her reply – ending weeks of speculation in the process.
Rumours of Vanessa's reappearance started when eagle-eyed fans noticed that her CV had been updated to show that she'd filmed for Neighbours in 2018.
Coincidentally, Vanessa's partner Lucas will be making an appearance on UK screens today, as he makes a brief guest return to check on things with the garage.
Eve Morey has left the cast of Neighbours and Sonya's final scenes are expected to air early this year.
Vanessa isn't the only character returning for Sonya's heartbreaking story, as son Callum will be heading back to Erinsborough in the near-future as well.
We also know that Gemma Pranita (Jade Mitchell) was also filming on set late last year, sparking rumours that Sonya's sister will be back as part of her exit plot as well.
Neighbours airs weekdays at 1.45pm and 5.30pm on Channel 5.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.3 Copyright © 2025 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.