Tim Kano, star of Neighbours, spoke to Digital Spy about Leo Tanaka’s new plot with Montana Marcel.
Leo’s attempts to impress Montana on Friday’s show resulted in a shocking outcome, as she proposed an indecent proposal to him.
Terese Willis had enlisted Leo’s help in winning over Montana as part of the hotel’s ongoing bid to host her fashion week.
When Leo paid her a visit, Montana seemed pleased, but she made it clear that she’d only give Lassiters the contract if he consented to accompany her upstairs.
Speaking to Digital Spy about the story, Tim explained: “Leo’s relationship with Montana is very complicated and layered. In the beginning, Leo is very intrigued by her, and he definitely feels like he’s met his match.
“When she does put her offer on the table with the indecent proposal, it’s an engaging plotline. She intrigues, scares, frightens, and excites him. All of the titillating things you’d desire when you see someone you could envision as your crime accomplice.”
In the upcoming episodes, Leo defies his loved ones’ fears by secretly pursuing Montana.
Following the terrible loss of his on-again, off-again partner Britney Barnes in January, it appears that Leo sees this as an opportunity to move on.
Tim went on to say: “Leo has been in such a state of sadness since Britney’s death and caring for Abigail that this is a welcome distraction for him.
“Montana, her power and commercial prowess, and, of course, her beauty, begin as a casual flirtation, but he becomes fascinated by her. It does change over time.”
When Tim was asked if Leo regretted being connected with Montana, he said: “Without a doubt. Especially after the anguish he’s feeling over Britney’s death and his desire to give up and then reclaim Abigail.
“His daughter comes first, so when Montana starts to overstep those boundaries and takes control, they are red flags for Leo, and he tries to pull back.
“In the next weeks, Leo will have to investigate his relationship with Montana and determine whether it is a business or a pleasure relationship, as well as whether there is something substantial beneath the chemistry.
“Leo is being very optimistic and is excited by this new character. He’s really wishing for the best and it’s partly escapism from the situation he’s been in. It’s going to be an interesting journey for Leo.”
Tammin Sursok, a former star of Home and Away and Pretty Little Liars, has been cast as Montana in this story.
Tim went on to say about his new on-screen partner: “She was a joy to work with and a fantastic actor. She was a breath of fresh air for Leo, who had been through a lot lately, and it was good to have a strong, compelling actor to work against.
“The character of Montana is really similar to Leo in so many ways. I was really glad when I found out Tammin was attached. We had heaps of fun with it and she’s so fun to work with. She’s very comedic as well.”
