Neil Hope

Neil Hope in 1991

Neil Hope (September 24, 1972 – November 25, 2007) was a Canadian actor best known for his role as Derek "Wheels" Wheeler on the television series Degrassi Junior High and Degrassi High. He was a prominent figure in Canadian television during the 1980s and early 1990s.

Early Life

Neil Hope was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in a working-class family and developed an interest in acting at a young age. Hope attended local schools in Toronto and participated in various school plays and community theater productions.

Career

Hope's acting career began when he was cast as Derek "Wheels" Wheeler in the popular Canadian television series Degrassi Junior High in 1987. The show, which was part of the larger Degrassi franchise, focused on the lives of teenagers attending a junior high school in Toronto. Hope's character, Wheels, was known for his distinctive glasses and his struggles with family issues, peer pressure, and personal challenges.

He continued to portray Wheels in the follow-up series Degrassi High, which aired from 1989 to 1991. The character of Wheels was central to many of the show's storylines, including dealing with the death of his parents, living with his grandparents, and facing the consequences of drunk driving.

After the end of Degrassi High, Hope reprised his role as Wheels in the television movie School's Out, which served as a conclusion to the original Degrassi series. The movie aired in 1992 and addressed the characters' transition from high school to adulthood.

Personal Life

Neil Hope faced numerous personal challenges throughout his life, including struggles with alcoholism and diabetes. Despite his early success as an actor, he experienced difficulties in his personal and professional life after the end of the Degrassi series.

Death

Neil Hope passed away on November 25, 2007, in Hamilton, Ontario. His death was not publicly reported until 2012, when it was revealed that he had died of natural causes related to his diabetes. His passing was a significant loss to the Degrassi community and his fans.

Legacy

Neil Hope's portrayal of Wheels left a lasting impact on viewers and contributed to the success of the Degrassi franchise. His character's realistic depiction of teenage struggles resonated with audiences and helped to address important social issues.

Filmography

• Degrassi Junior High (1987–1989) as Derek "Wheels" Wheeler
• Degrassi High (1989–1991) as Derek "Wheels" Wheeler
• School's Out (1992) as Derek "Wheels" Wheeler

See Also

• Degrassi
• Degrassi Junior High
• Degrassi High
• School's Out

External Links

[https://www.imdb.com/name/{{#property:P345}} / Neil Hope] on IMDb