Ian Smith, beloved for his portrayal of Harold Bishop on the Australian soap Neighbours, has announced his departure from the show following a diagnosis of terminal cancer.
The 86-year-old actor revealed he has pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer.
Speaking to Australia’s 10 News First, Smith shared the emotional journey of his diagnosis: “I found out a few months back that I have cancer… an aggressive, non-fixable cancer. They expect me to die.”
Smith has undergone three treatments, including immunotherapy, as he strives to maintain his quality of life.
“I wake up every morning hoping there’s no pain because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part,” he said, expressing gratitude for every moment he can enjoy pain-free.
Fans will soon witness Harold’s final moments on Ramsay Street, with actress Anne Charleston, who played Harold’s wife Madge, set to return for some of his last scenes.
Details about her appearance remain under wraps, but the reunion promises to be a poignant farewell for longtime viewers.
The official Neighbours account on X shared a tribute, calling Harold’s departure a monumental loss: “Erinsborough won’t quite be the same again. Harold is set to have a send-off fit for Ramsay Street royalty.”
Smith reflected on his personal loss, recalling the death of his wife Gail from cancer in 2019.
“My life finished then,” he admitted, adding that the experience has shaped his outlook on his own journey: “I’ve seen some good deaths and some bad ones – I’m hoping I’ll go the nice way.”
Ian Smith joined Neighbours in 1987, initially as a temporary character, but Harold’s charm earned him a long-term spot.
He departed in 1991, reappeared in 1996, and remained a fixture until 2009, with guest returns in subsequent years.
Smith’s final stint on the show began earlier this year, culminating in Harold’s heartfelt goodbye to Ramsay Street.
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