Neighbours icon Ian Smith reveal tragic health battle and steps down from his role after 37 years: ‘They expect me to die’

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As a dedicated fan of Neighbours and Harold Bishop for decades, I cannot help but feel a profound sense of sadness and admiration upon learning about Ian Smith’s battle with terminal cancer. Having watched him portray the beloved character since 1987, I have grown to appreciate not only his acting skills but also the heart and soul he has infused into Harold Bishop.

Ian Smith is stepped down from his role on Neighbours amid a terminal cancer battle. 

The long-standing actor known for portraying Harold Bishop on the Australian television show since 1987, shares a grim outlook about his health situation.

‘I found out a few months back that I have cancer’ the 86-year-old told the Herald Sun on Monday. 

‘That I have a very aggressive non-fixable cancer and they expect me to … they expect me to die.’ 

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness hearing that the iconic Aussie actor, who’s been captivating us as our beloved character on Neighbours since 1987, has labeled his cancer as ‘beyond repair’.

According to the Executive Producer Jason Herbison, the character portrayed by Bishop is set to receive an appropriate farewell in the series.

In an emotionally charged atmosphere on the set, he expressed his gratitude for the immense impact he had on our production.

Herbison noted that Smith shares the same level of affection, as his on-screen persona, for being adored not only by the series but also by the audience.

A representative from Network 10 expressed their heartfelt sadness upon learning about Ian Smith’s cancer diagnosis.

Ian, an esteemed figure within the Neighbours community, has been the emotional backbone and lifeblood of the series ever since he stepped foot on Ramsay Street in 1987.

‘Ian has brought joy, laughter and inspiration to audiences all around the world for decades.

Together with the cast, crew, and fans worldwide, we’ll offer our support to Ian in whatever way is needed as he navigates through this challenging period.

Smith joined the show as Harold Bishop in 1987, before leaving the series in 1991. 

In 1996, the actor reappeared and held the same role for more than ten years until he departed once more in 2009.

In 2011 and then again in 2015, he took on the role once more. More recently, he’s come back for the series as a permanent cast member, starting in 2022.

Smith will continue to appear on screen until April, 2025.  

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2024-12-02 09:04