Neighbours Actor Ian Smith Reveals Terminal Cancer Diagnosis

Neighbours actor Ian Smith, known for his portrayal of Harold Bishop on the Australian soap opera, has announced his departure from the series following a revelation that he has terminal cancer. The 86-year-old informed Australia’s 10 News First program that he has been diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma, a rare form of lung cancer. He stated, “I found out a few months back that I have cancer, that I have a very aggressive non-fixable cancer and they expect me to die.” Actress Anne Charleston, who played Madge, is scheduled to return alongside Bishop for some of his final scenes. Smith commented, “I’ve had three chemos – although, the first one wasn’t chemo, it was immunotherapy, which is reasonably new to the medical world.” He continued, “I’ve really put my hand up, I think just to be a guinea pig plus the fact I don’t want to die, I want to stay alive with quality as long as I can – and if they can do that, I’m very happy.” He added, “But I wake up every morning hoping there’s no pain, because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part.” A post on the Neighbours X account reads: “Harold waves goodbye to Ramsay Street. “We’re sharing the sad news that Ian Smith will soon be stepping away from the beloved role of Harold Bishop. “Ian first played Harold in 1987 and it’s been a huge privilege to welcome him back to the show over the years.” The soap’s statement further noted: “In what context Anne will appear is yet to be revealed – but to have the iconic couple reunited will be one final treat for fans.” It also added, “Erinsborough won’t quite be the same again – but rest assured that Harold is set to have a send-off fit for Ramsay Street royalty.” Smith also spoke to 10 News First about the death of his wife, Gail, from cancer in 2019. He reflected, “That, really, I think if that hadn’t happened, I’d be a lot worse off now – but my life finished then.” He further shared, “I’ve seen so many deaths. “I’ve seen some good ones and I’ve seen bad ones – and I’m hoping I’ll go the nice way.” Smith first appeared in Neighbours in 1987, playing an old romantic interest of Madge’s. Although initially slated for only a few episodes, his much-loved character remained until 1991, when Harold was presumed lost at sea while on holiday. He rejoined the soap in 1996, staying until 2009, and after several subsequent guest appearances, he returned as a regular cast member earlier this year. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.