Neighbours may be ending, but Ramsay Street resident Ben Jackson’s career is just beginning. The actor reflects on the show, his Kylie connection, and his place in its legacy.
DNA: As Neighbours nears the end of its final season, how will you remember your time on the show?
Ben Jackson: Being part of something so embedded in Australian culture has been incredible. I’m very grateful for that.
What have you enjoyed most about your character, Max?
I was lucky to be given some juicy storylines – lots of drama and tension – and I even got to do a few stunts. Playing a Ramsay was special because they are royalty on the show.
Technically, you play a relative of Charlene Ramsay (played by Kylie Minogue).
Yes! When I discovered I was a Ramsay and related to Kylie, I did a fist pump! I was very excited that she’s my aunt.
As the show draws to its conclusion, can you give us a hint about Max’s fate?
I can’t say too much, but, in classic Neighbours fashion, it’s not going to be an easy-breezy stroll in the park! Things are escalating! Even the actors don’t know how the show will end.
How do you hope Neighbours will be remembered?
Neighbours is a beautiful form of escapism. I’d love it to be remembered as a show that gave its viewers a sense of belonging. It has been groundbreaking. We had a gay marriage with Aaron and David, and the Varga/Murphy family with two mums. Neighbours was bold, inclusive and a safe place where people could be seen and heard.
Outside work, do you ever cut loose with your gay mates?
I do. One of the perks of the acting community is making a lot of queer friends. My housemate, who is a former writer on the show, is queer. When I arrived, he took me around all the gay clubs and showed me a good time. There are a few queer actors on the show, and we all go out together. I find gay clubs are more fun than regular venues. The music is always better!
Are you ever mistaken as being gay?
Yes, a lot. I’ve been told I’m quite androgynous, so some people assume I’m gay. But I love that. I’ve never seen it as something worth taking any mind to.
What dancefloor song do you find irresistible?
If I hear any earlier Kylie stuff, I’m straight onto the dancefloor. I love In Your Eyes and On A Night Like This.
Who’s your music diva?
Well, my Aunty Charlene for sure! I also think Kate Bush is unreal. My dad’s a massive fan and told me he grew up with a Kate Bush poster in his room! But I’d also put Freddie Mercury in there, too. No one does it like him.
Do you have a grooming tip?
Max is clean-shaven, so I use a razor every morning. It’s quite rough on the skin, causing breakouts, but I started using piping hot water with a facial cleanse afterwards. I then lather as much moisturiser as possible. I also cleanse twice a day, mainly because of wearing makeup.
What’s been your most memorable wardrobe malfunction?
I’m terrible at having my fly down. Often, my scene partners will nudge me and say, “Ben, your fly!”
Who’s been the most significant influence on your career?
In drama school, the director, Daniel Evans, cast me in my first lead role. He was the first person who I felt saw my potential. I knew then and there that I wanted to act for the rest of my life.
Is there a quote you live by?
Yes, it’s in the Taika Waititi movie Jojo Rabbit. “Let everything happen to you, beauty and terror, just keep going, no feeling is final.” It’s simple, beautiful, and I find it grounding. Whenever I’m having a low moment, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking it’ll stay that way forever, but I remind myself that no feeling is final. There is so much beauty on the other side of pain. It’s always good to come back to the centre.
On the beach, boardshorts or budgie smugglers?
Boardies. But I have so much respect for anyone who can pull off the budgies. Matty Wilson [plays Aaron in Neighbours; former DNA cover model] is king of the budgies! If I were braver, I’d wear them.
Briefs, boxers or freeballing?
Boxer briefs. But there have been times when my laundry basket is piled up and I realise I’m out of clean undies. More times than I’d like to admit!
The final Neighbours episodes can be streamed on 10 Play and Paramount+
Follow Ben on Instagram @benijackson
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