Annie Jones wanted to return to 'Neighbours' for an extended period after being left "unsatisfied" by her guest stints.
Annie Jones
The 51-year-old actress is to reprise her role as Jane Harris, who was better known as Plain Jane Superbrain, next week after making brief appearances in the 20th and 30th anniversary specials of the Australian soap, and she has enjoyed "working hard" on set for longer.
She exclusively told BANG Showbiz: "The idea of working and working hard at something I really missed tempted me back.
"I've done a few guest stints over the years but it leaves me a little unsatisfied, because with a guest role they tend to be shot over a day or two and it's all over.
"You kinda just get into it and you're finished.
"I was really, really hanging out for a longer run at a show."
While the 'Neighbours' filming schedule has increased a lot since she previously starred on the soap from 1986 to 1989, Annie found the intense shooting "a whole heap of fun".
She added: "I love the whole thing of the discipline and having lots of lines to learn, and getting your head around shooting six episodes in a week and scenes all out of order.
"I know it sounds crazy but, as an actor that is the best thing you can do to sharpen your skills.
"It's a whole heap of fun. That was why I wanted to come back."
Despite enjoying filming her latest scenes, Annie is hoping the 'Neighbours' fans feel the same way, admitting she is slightly anxious about how her character will be received upon her return.
She explained: "My only nerves are that I hope I don't disappoint people.
"I hope they don't watch the show and are disappointed in me - that would be awful.
"I was chomping at the bit, I was so eager and keen. I even loved getting up early."
Annie's return airs on Friday April 6 on Channel 5 at 1.45pm and 5.30pm.