After an impressive 35-year hiatus from the dramatic screen, global pop icon and beloved television personality Dannii Minogue is set to make a highly anticipated acting comeback, stepping into a pivotal role in Channel 5’s forthcoming four-part psychological thriller, Imposter. Best known to many as the younger sister of music legend Kylie Minogue, Dannii first captured the hearts of audiences as the troubled teenager Emma Jackson in the iconic Australian soap opera Home and Away from 1989 to 1990. Her return to scripted drama marks a significant milestone in a multifaceted career that has spanned music, reality television judging, and presenting, reaffirming her versatile talent.
Minogue’s initial foray into acting, portraying Emma Jackson, left an indelible mark on Home and Away viewers despite her relatively brief tenure. Emma’s storyline, often fraught with typical soap opera dilemmas of family, love, and adolescent struggles, provided a foundational experience for the then-burgeoning star. However, it was her pivot to music that propelled Dannii into international superstardom. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, she carved out a formidable career as a pop singer, releasing numerous chart-topping hits and solidifying her status as a dance-pop diva. Beyond the recording studio, Minogue seamlessly transitioned into a prominent role on reality television, notably as a judge on The X Factor in both the UK and Australia, where her insightful critiques and empathetic approach endeared her to millions. More recently, she has broadened her presenting portfolio, hosting the groundbreaking LGBTQ+ BBC dating shows I Kissed a Boy and I Kissed a Girl, demonstrating her ongoing relevance and willingness to embrace diverse projects.
Despite her undeniable success across various entertainment platforms, a return to acting had long been a quiet ambition for Minogue. Sources close to the production reveal that she had been actively seeking the right vehicle for her acting comeback, a role that resonated deeply and offered a compelling challenge after such a prolonged absence from dramatic roles. The script for Imposter proved to be that perfect fit, captivating her instantly. The excitement within Channel 5’s production team was palpable, as they had reportedly spent weeks meticulously trying to secure Minogue for the project. Her eventual commitment, finalized just days before filming commenced, was met with immense delight, with insiders expressing their elation that she loved the script enough to make her demanding schedule align with the production dates.
Imposter promises to be a gripping drama, unfolding against the scenic backdrop of a seaside family hotel in Victoria, Australia, where filming has already begun. The series is described as a “Succession-like” plot, hinting at intricate power dynamics, deep-seated family resentments, and high-stakes betrayals. At its core lies a chilling murder mystery, around which the entire narrative pivots. Dannii Minogue’s character is central to this intrigue, positioned as one of the primary suspects in the unfolding murder investigation. This role offers her a complex and layered character to portray, allowing her to delve into the darker facets of human nature and contributing significantly to the series’ suspenseful atmosphere as family members vie for control over a crumbling empire.
The casting of Imposter further solidifies its appeal to audiences familiar with Australian and British soap opera legacies. Joining Minogue in this star-studded ensemble is former Coronation Street actress Kym Marsh, 49, adding another layer of cross-soap celebrity power. Perhaps most notably for fans of Australian drama, the series also features the legendary Jackie Woodburne, 69, widely beloved for her iconic portrayal of Susan Kennedy in Neighbours. Woodburne takes on the role of the matriarch in Imposter, ensuring a powerhouse trio of seasoned performers who bring a wealth of experience and a loyal fan base to the project. This strategic casting of well-known faces, particularly those with strong roots in long-running television dramas, is a testament to Channel 5’s commitment to delivering compelling and accessible content that resonates with a broad audience.
The decision for Minogue to return to acting after more than three decades underscores the enduring allure of compelling narratives and character-driven roles for even the most established entertainers. Her career journey—from a foundational role in one of Australia’s most beloved soaps to a thriving international music career and then a successful transition into television presenting—demonstrates a remarkable adaptability and resilience. Her current roles hosting progressive LGBTQ+ dating shows showcase her modern sensibility, making her return to a dramatic, potentially dark thriller all the more intriguing. It signals a desire to push creative boundaries and explore new artistic challenges, demonstrating that even after achieving global fame, the craft of acting continues to hold a profound appeal.
The early footage of Dannii Minogue’s performance has reportedly exceeded the expectations of the Imposter production team, with bosses expressing immense satisfaction with her contributions to the series so far. Her seamless reintegration into the acting world after such a long absence speaks volumes about her inherent talent and dedication. This new chapter in her career is not just a personal triumph but also a significant event for television audiences, particularly those who have followed her career since her days in Summer Bay. Imposter is poised to be a highlight in Channel 5’s 2026 drama slate, promising a tantalizing blend of suspense, family secrets, and powerhouse performances. With its intriguing plot, acclaimed cast, and the much-anticipated return of a versatile star like Dannii Minogue, Imposter is set to be a must-watch series, proving that sometimes, the longest hiatuses lead to the most impactful comebacks.
