the first line of the episode. Analyzing the role of relationships in Shortland Street, researcher Nandi Lakshmanan noted Marj and Laurie for being the only couple on screen in 1995 to not suffer relationship issues or a break-up. She noted this as a successful function of the role of women on the soap. Following the success of Marj's characterisation in the original cast, the character became iconic and an archetype for later characters to come. This archetype consisted of a motherly figure who offered sage advice from behind the desk with her one liners. The character was followed by numerous other similar characters that were equally as popular, including; Moira (Geraldine Brophy), Babara (Annie Whittle) and Yvonne (Alison Quigan). Columnist Fleur Mealing did however note that, "Marj was Shortland Street's first ever receptionist. That coveted position has been held by many different folk since, but no one will ever did it like Marj did." The similarities were referenced on screen in 2008 when a highly drugged Guy Warner (Craig Parker) mistook Yvonne for Marj. Despite Yvonne's storylines being screened to thousands of viewers every night, Quigan still found herself mistaken for Marj by the public, reportedly being constantly reminded that she: "played Marj on Shortland Street." When Amelia Reid was cast in the role of Bella Cooper in 2010, she stated her hope to live up to the reputation of Marj on the front desk. When Jennifer Ludlam (Receptionist Leanne Miller) filmed her first scenes behind the desk, she felt it was an iconic position to hold having previously worked with McRae on stage. Ludlam later reflected on this, saying, "Who doesn't know Marj ... what an icon!" The death scenes of Marj were praised by reviewers. Her final words, "Life's too short and wonderful for regrets" were described by a reviewer on The Spinoff as being "profound and moving". The quote was said to be one of the best of the episode. The scenes were said to be a well earned "sentimental closing montage". The song One Day by Opshop featured as a backing track during Marj's death and subsequently reentered the New Zealand iTunes charts. The 25th anniversary episode featuring her death also received high ratings of 630,000, receiving praise from the producers and the network. Marj's return and death was noted by The New Zealand TV Guide as one of the show's highlights of the decade. References