Shortland Street 20th anniversary

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Shortland Street 20th anniversary
Shortland Street episodes
Shortland Street 20th anniversary.jpg
Episode nos.Series 21
Episodes 4992–4998
Directed byWayne Tourelle
Written byKim Harrop
Featured musicGraham Ballard
Editing byAnna Beneakter
Original air date21 May 2012 – 25 May 2012

Shortland Street's 20th anniversary is a series of episodes that aired to commemorate the 20th year of the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street from 21 to 25 May 2012. The episodes were built around a 90-minute episode that aired on the 21st and climaxed in a helicopter crash. Billed as Shortland Street's biggest ever episode, the anniversary was highly praised by reviewers and received record ratings. Other storylines included Gerald Tippett's heart surgery and Callum McKay's departure.

Contents

Several characters returned to commemorate the occasion, with the Jeffries family; Yvonne (Alison Quigan), Maia (Anna Jullienne), Libby (Fleur Saville), Tania (Faye Smythe), Gerald (Harry McNaughton) and Jay (Liam Farmer), returning alongside the show's original receptionist – Marj Brasch (Elizabeth McRae). Sophie McKay (Kimberley Crossman) also returned in a single scene, alongside several other minor character returnees.

Casting

At least 10 past characters were confirmed to return for the anniversary, some in major roles whilst others in cameos. [1] The return of several previous characters depended on the availability of the actors. [2] Despite the line; "You're not in Guatemala now Dr. Ropata" being one of the show's most iconic moments, Temuera Morrison (Hone Ropata) was confirmed not to be returning for the special. [3] Karl Burnett, who portrayed longest running original character - Nick Harrison confirmed he was not asked to return via his Facebook status. [4] During an interview with Woman's Day in April 2012, Anna Jullienne confirmed her character Maia Jeffries would be returning to the show to meet with unannounced members of the Jeffries family. [5]

The following week it was confirmed that the other surviving members of the Jeffries family – Yvonne, Libby, Tania and Jay would be returning alongside Libby's husband Gerald Tippett throughout May. [6] Fleur Saville (Libby Jeffries) said returning to the show was; "like returning home! It was fantastic to see all my friends in the crew and cast and hear what everyone has been up to since I left 2 years ago." [7] Anna Jullienne (Maia Jeffries) was happy to return for the momentous occasion, stating; "It's been great to be part of the 20th celebrations. Shortland Street was a huge part of my life for years and I'm happy to celebrate its great achievements." [7] Producer – Steven Zanoski described his decision to bring the Jeffries back as; "When we began to look at who could return for the birthday week we debated long and hard on who would work. But when we found out that the Jeffries family were available we instantly knew we had it." [8]

On 7 May it was confirmed series original - Elizabeth McRae, would be returning as the character of Marj Brasch, the original receptionist. [9] Zanoski explained Marj's return, stating; "With the return of Yvonne to the reception desk it was only a matter of course to have Marj back." [8] Paul Gittins (Michael McKenna) jokingly stated that he was not asked to reprise his role as his character had been dead for 13 years. [10] The Emergency Department location was notably missing a doctor and so writers decided to introduce a character in the 20th anniversary episodes to fulfil this. [11] This led to the creation of Josh Gallagher, who was described as; "an adrenalin junkie who loves the rush of ED and the precision and skill involved in surgical work. He's used to partying all night before sneaking in to start his shift" was created for this position [11] Chris Tempest was cast in the role. [11] The character of Lionel Skeggins was considered to be brought back, with Zanoski commenting; "There was talk of bringing back Lionel in a brief cameo appearance for the 20th Anniversary, just for all the fans who still believe that Lionel didn't die. I almost wish we had done it." [12] Several other less notable characters returned including Estevez Gillespie as Bailey Finch after an absence of 4 months, Henry Beasley as Tom Stanton after 4 months and Roy Ward as Nigel Tippett after 3 years. Kimberley Crossman also made a brief one scene reappearance as Sophie McKay as part of Callum's departing scenes.[ citation needed ]

Production

In 2011 a special episode was announced of the show to air on the 20th anniversary. [13] In March 2012 it was announced that the episode would be 90 minutes long and would likely focus on several returned characters. [3] Producer - Steven Zanoski, was thrilled by the momentous episode saying; "It's been hugely exciting over the last couple of weeks as we see faces from the past come back through the studios, some for cameo appearances, others as pivotal parts of the storylines that are set to come." [14] Zanoski also announced that there would be an extreme stunt taking place in the episode, saying; "We are also gearing up to film one of the biggest stunt sequences we have ever done. We have all sorts of amazing hardware being delivered to our art sheds and everything is being kept top secret. Viewers will have a lot to look forward to over the next couple of months." [14]

The episode's storyline was to feature a staff party where the doctors and nurses would don the original outfits worn in 1992. [2] Actress Rachel Blampied (Bree Hamilton) was glad to be part of the 20th anniversary shoot, calling it "nostalgic". [15] Her onscreen sister, Beth Allen (Brooke Freeman), agreed stating; "With everything going on with the birthday, it's a really exciting time to be part of the show." [16] The feature-length episode was also announced to take place on 21 May as part of the Winter season. [6] Zanoski described the episodes as "spectacular". [17] After numerous mentions of a helipad on the hospital roof as the anniversary drew near, it soon was soon announced that the episodes would climax in a helicopter crash. [18] The helicopter wreckage was sourced from a helicopter that crashed in Auckland's Viaduct Harbour while erecting a Christmas tree in November 2011, with the sound effect of the crash coming from TVNZ, who had inadvertently caught the helicopter crash on camera. The scene took 11 hours to film. [18] Numerous special effects were used and cast and crew speculated it would likely be the shows biggest stunt. [18]

The filming took night shoots and double shifts alongside stunt and technical work. [8] Because of this Zanoski ensured the episode would be gripping and the show's "biggest ever episode". [8] A storyline was devised where one of the show's primary characters would undergo a murder charge after killing off another character. [11] Great deal of attention was put into how the character would be killed off and the concept of stabbing was decided upon. [11] Medical researchers were also used heavily for the episodes, with crushing, drug addiction scars and heart surgery all being featured. [11]

Promotion

In April it was announced past Shortland Street actress, Kimberley Crossman (Sophie McKay) would be hosting an hour special titled; 'Naughty Shorty', that would show bloopers and mistakes from the show's first 20 years. [19] Crossman enjoyed hosting the special, stating; "It's a great show and it was great to be able to host it and be in some of the bloopers as well. You can't really hide who you are when you make a mistake. You reveal so much of yourself and it'so so funny." [20] Crossman played the host, stating; "I basically play the role of that guy from America's Funniest Home Videos . All the hard work is done, and I get the pleasure of throwing to the hilarious moments." and enjoyed the experience of returning to set; "It was cool to be back, see everyone and be part of something that people will be watching in years to come." [21] An official Shortland Street magazine was released to commemorate the occasion, the magazine featured interviews with cast alongside memorable storylines and characters from the soap's first 20 years. [22] On 21 May 2012, a real-life situation occurred where a helicopter in Christchurch crashed into a lake. Although the soap was filmed months in advance, executives considered rescheduling the feature-length episode but it was decided against in favour of continuity. [23]

Reception

Of the week starting 17 May 2012, the Shortland Street 20th anniversary was named as one of the top five picks of the week. [24] The episode received an audience of 756,980 people, thus screening to 50% of audiences aged 25–54. [25] Lydia Jenkin of The New Zealand Herald, highly enjoyed the feature-length episode, praising the characters of Yvonne and Libby Jeffries, the helicopter crash and the Hayley storyline. [26] Eric Thompson of The Dominion Post also praised the episode and stated the show continued; "to be a powerhouse of Kiwi television." [25] MSN New Zealand highlighted the scene where past character's name tags were viewed, calling it; "a nice touch". [27]

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Chris Warner</span> Soap opera character

Christopher Alexander Warner is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who has been portrayed by Michael Galvin since the show's first episode, making him the longest running original character. Galvin quit the show in 1996, but returned to the show four years later when the show underwent a revamp. In total he has been with Shortland Street for 27 of its 31 years.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Yvonne Jeffries</span> Soap opera character

Yvonne Jeffries is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. She was portrayed by Alison Quigan in a guest stint in 2004, before returning in a regular role the following year. She remained on the show until 2011 and returned as part of the shows 20th anniversary in May 2012.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Guy Warner</span> Fictional character

Guy Warner is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Craig Parker in a guest role in 1992 before returning as core cast from 1993 to 1996. Guy returned for the shows 15th anniversary in May 2007 and again from December 2007 to April 2008.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Maia Jeffries</span> Soap opera character

Maia Anne Jeffries is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. She was portrayed by Anna Jullienne from mid-2004 to early-2011, with the character starring in numerous high-profile storylines alongside her on screen family. The character returned as part of the show's 20th anniversary in May 2012.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Libby Jeffries</span> Soap opera character

Olivia "Libby" Tippett is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Fleur Saville from early-2006 to mid-2010. She returned in a guest appearance during the shows 20th anniversary in 2012.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Hunter McKay</span> Fictional character

Hunter McKay is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Lee Donoghue from December 2006, as part of a new family unit consisting of parents Callum McKay and Justine Jones, and younger sister Sophie McKay. Donoghue stayed with the role until he quit in late 2011. Hunter made his final appearance in March 2012.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Joey Henderson</span> Fictional character from Shortland Street

Joseph James "Joey" Henderson is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Johnny Barker from mid 2007 to early 2008.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kieran Mitchell</span> Soap opera character

Kieran Mitchell is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by British actor Adam Rickitt through numerous high-profile storylines from early 2007 to mid-2010.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Gabrielle Jacobs</span> Soap opera character

Dr. Gabrielle Jacobs is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street and has been portrayed by Virginie Le Brun throughout two stints, the first from 2009 to 2010 and the second from 2011 to 2012. She arrived in February 2009 as a potential love interest for long serving playboy Chris Warner.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Rachel McKenna</span> Soap opera character

Rachel McKenna is a fictional character from the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street, played by Angela Bloomfield and who made her first appearance in early 1993. Bloomfield left the role in late 1999, before returning in early 2001 and departing in early 2003. She returned in a guest role in mid-2007 and again in a full-time role in late 2009 before departing once again in late 2016.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sophie McKay</span> Soap opera character

Sophie Juliette McKay is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Kimberley Crossman from 2006 to 2011 as part of the McKay family unit. She made a guest appearance in 2012.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Darryl Neilson</span> Soap opera character

Darryl Neilson is a fictional character in the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. Appearing sporadically, Darryl made several recurring appearance from 1992 to the character's death in 1995. He was portrayed by Mark Ferguson.

Dominic Thompson (<i>Shortland Street</i>) Soap opera character

Dominic "Dom" Thompson is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Shane Cortese from 2003 to 2004.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Stuart Neilson</span> Fictional character on Shortland Street

Dr. Stuart Neilson is a fictional character in the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Martin Henderson as part of the original cast until early 1995. The character returned after 22 years off screen to celebrate the show's 25th anniversary episode which aired on 25 May 2017.

Nick Harrison (<i>Shortland Street</i>) Fictional character on Shortland Street

Nicholas John Harrison is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Karl Burnett from the show's second episode in 1992 to 2005, making him the original character to stay with the show the longest in one stint. The character, along with wife Waverley, returned for the show's 25th anniversary that aired on 25 May 2017.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Marj Brasch</span> Soap opera character

Marjorie "Marj" Brasch is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. Being part of the original cast, she was portrayed by Elizabeth McRae from the show's first season in 1992 up until 1996. She returned as a guest character in 1998, 2002, as part of the show's 20th anniversary in May 2012 and again for the show's 25th anniversary in 2017.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jay Copeland</span> Soap opera character

Jessica "Jay" Copeland is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street who was portrayed by Jaime Passier-Armstrong from mid-2004 to mid-2007. She was the show's first lesbian regular character and longtime love interest for Maia Jeffries.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Waverley Harrison</span> Soap opera character

Waverley "Wave" Harrison is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. She was portrayed by Claire Chitham and was introduced as a love interest for Nick Harrison who she eventually married 8 years after her arrival to the show. The character returned along with Husband Nick for the show's 25th anniversary episode that aired on 25 May 2017. Waverley also returned with Lucas and 3 of her and Nick's children for the 2022 finale.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Tania Jeffries</span> Soap opera character

Tania Jeffries is a fictional character on the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. She was portrayed by Faye Smythe from 2005 to 2010, with the character starring in numerous high-profile storylines alongside her on screen family. The character returned in May 2012 as part of the show's 20th anniversary.

References

  1. ↑ "7:20 PM - 3 Apr 12". ShortlandTweet . Twitter. 3 April 2012.
  2. 1 2 Glucina, Rachel (23 March 2012). "Carly Flynn joins TV watchdogs Target". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media.
  3. 1 2 Weekes, John (18 March 2012). "Shorty St special on the cards". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media.
  4. ↑ McLeod, Rosemary; McCabe, Steve (28 March 2012). "Interview". The Panel (Interview). Interviewed by Jim Mora. Auckland: Radio New Zealand.
  5. ↑ "Hot Property, Inside Anna's DIY love nest". Woman's Day. New Zealand Magazines. 23 April 2012.
  6. 1 2 "Coming up in May". Shortland Street . Television New Zealand. 30 April 2012. Archived from the original on 9 May 2012.
  7. 1 2 "Look who's back!". Shortland Street . Television New Zealand. 10 May 2012. Archived from the original on 3 January 2014.
  8. 1 2 3 4 "A spectacular week of Shortland Street". Shortland Street . Television New Zealand. 17 May 2012. Archived from the original on 23 May 2012.
  9. ↑ "More Shortland Street style than ever!". Buy The Look. 7 May 2012.
  10. ↑ "Celebrating 20 years of Shortland Street". Breakfast . 12 May 2012. TV2.
  11. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Barry Hill, Rebecca (15 May 2012). "Behind-the-scenes of Shortland Street (+photos)". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media.
  12. ↑ Philpott, Chris (25 May 2012). "Shortland St moments: the 10 greatest". stuff.co.nz . Fairfax Media.
  13. ↑ "2012 is the year of Shortland Street". Television New Zealand . December 2011. Archived from the original on 11 April 2012.
  14. 1 2 "The new Shorty cast photo is here!". Television New Zealand . 21 March 2012. Archived from the original on 11 April 2012.
  15. ↑ "Shorty's Big Faker". Woman's Day. New Zealand Magazines. 2 April 2012.
  16. ↑ Bailey, Kylie (2 April 2012). "Shorty vixen Beth, My secrets to a happy marriage". Woman's Day. New Zealand Magazines.
  17. ↑ Whiteside, Andrew (7 May 2012). "Steven Zanoski: From our favourite kids show to our favourite soap". NZ On Screen. NZ On Air.
  18. 1 2 3 Jenkin, Lydia (10 May 2012). "Shortland Street turns 20 in explosive fashion". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media.
  19. ↑ "Kimberley is joining the party". Television New Zealand . 13 April 2012. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016.
  20. ↑ Smith, Janie (10 May 2012). "Shorty Street: The naughty bits". New Zealand TV Guide. Fairfax Media.
  21. ↑ McEnaney, Ashleigh, ed. (16 May 2012). "Kim's funniest homegrown videos". New Zealand Woman's Day. New Zealand Magazines.
  22. ↑ "Get your hands on the Shortland Street magazine!". Shortland Street . Television New Zealand. 22 April 2012. Archived from the original on 12 May 2012.
  23. ↑ Theunissen, Matthew (22 May 2012). "TV reschedule considered after chopper crash". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media.
  24. ↑ "Top five TV picks of the week (+trailers)". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media. 17 May 2012.
  25. 1 2 Thompson, Erica (22 May 2012). "Review: Shortland Street delivers drama". The Dominion Post . Fairfax Media.
  26. ↑ Jenkin, Lydia (21 May 2012). "TV review: Shortland Street's gripping 'mega-episode'". The New Zealand Herald . APN News & Media.
  27. ↑ "Trauma all round on Shortland Street birthday". Entertainment Fix. MSN New Zealand. 21 May 2012.
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