Beloved Australian actor Ian Smith, who is best known for playing Harold Bishop on Neighbours, has revealed that he has cancer.
In an emotional interview with Channel 10, the 86-year-old announced he’s been diagnosed with a rare and “non-fixable” form of lung cancer, pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma.
During the interview, the Neighbours actor explained the diagnosis has led him to step away from acting, marking the end of his extraordinary career.
“It isn’t just my last day in Neighbours; it’s my last day of work,” Ian told Channel 10 as the network joined the actor on his last day on Ramsay Street.
Ian Smith’s time on Neighbours
First appearing on Neighbours in 1987 as a love interest for character Madge Mitchell (Anne Charleston), the much-loved Harold Bishop went on to become one of the show’s most enduring characters.
Ian had five stints on the program, including one for 12 years from 1996—one of the longest character runs in the show’s history. His most recent return came in May of this year, which was intended as a permanent comeback.
“I’ve had the most privileged life,” Ian continued.
“And I know a lot of actors boo-hoo Soap, well, to tell you what. We didn’t just make Soap, we made the best bloody Soap there was to make. I have met the most beautiful people.”
Ian Smith’s last day on Neighbours
Ian’s last day on set was filled with touching moments, including a poignant reunion with Anne, who Channel 10 have confirmed will film goodbye scenes with him.
Ian described being deeply moved by the overwhelming response of his fellow castmates.
“It knocked me out a bit,” he said. “It made me stop, look at myself and say, ‘Okay, old cynical Smith,’ rethink your outlook on life.”
The actor who plays Harold on Neighbours revealed he has undergone three treatments for his cancer so far, including the “reasonably new” immunotherapy.
“I’ve really put my hand up, just to be a guinea pig. Plus the fact I don’t want to die,” he reflected.
“I want to stay alive with quality as long as I can. If they can do that [then] I’m very happy.”
Sending Ian all our love and best wishes
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