HE'S best known as a cheeky young Summer Bay lad but once the director calls "cut", Felix Dean, 13, is just like the rest of us — a die-hard Penrith Panthers fan.
Famous across Australia — and many other countries — for his portrayal of VJ Patterson on the popular series Home and Away, Felix is also a loud and proud Panthers fan who became the club's official 5000th ticketed member during their recent Battle of the West membership drive.
Rudyard Kipling's story inspired the outgoing youngster to follow the Panthers. "I used to love The Jungle Book when I was little and I loved the panther in it and because of that I'm one of their biggest supporters," he said. "I love the whole team but I'd have to say Luke Lewis and Trent Waterhouse are my favourites. They're both loyal to Penrith."
Felix, who lives in Erskineville, attends each home game with his mother and tipped a big season for Lachlan Coote, Michael Jennings and Sam McKendry.
Despite last weekend's disappointing loss to the Newcastle Knights he was certain they'll win the premiership.
"I reckon we'll finish top four or just out it but I think you're better off a bit down the eight because you want to win it more. It's the Panthers' premiership this year! Time to bring it back home!"
Felix attended the recent preseason fan day at Centrebet Stadium and was thrilled to trade autographs with his Panther heroes. "Brad Tighe, Luke Walsh, Nigel Plum, Travis Burns and Purts all knew who I was and I was like: 'Are you serious?'
"I look up to you and you're here recognising me? I was amazed."
Like all true Panthers fans Felix said he loved to beat the Eels and the Roosters and expressed a desire for a future Summer Bay storyline involving our mountain men.
"I can suggest storylines so I might suggest one of VJ going to some games or on the bus with all the Panthers after they've won the premiership," he said.
"I want to do it and Panthers have been good to me so I want to give something back."
He's played VJ since 2007 and he has no intention of leaving the show any time soon. "They're building VJ up and now he's in high school he might get a girl — we'll have to wait and see," he said.
While he must remain tight-lipped about upcoming storylines he did hint that in a year of so many natural disasters Summer Bay ought to watch out. "Last year was very lovey but this year there are some really big storylines coming."
With a full footy season ahead he called on fans to support the Panthers' membership drive and cheer them all the way to the grand final. "If you live in Penrith get out to the games and, as a message to the players: 'I love you — go all the way!' "