Neighbours fan-favourite star leaves the show after sharing heartbreaking news
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For decades, Neighbours has been a beloved part of Australian television, capturing the hearts of viewers with its relatable characters and compelling storylines.
Now, fans are facing a bittersweet moment as the show bids farewell to one of its most cherished figures.
The actor, known for their significant role in the long-running drama, shared a candid update about their condition, reflecting on the journey ahead with remarkable courage.
Ian Smith, who has become a household name for his portrayal of the lovable Harold Bishop, is leaving the show under the most heart-wrenching of circumstances.
Smith has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer, prompting him to make the difficult decision to step away from the show.
‘I found out a few months back that I have cancer…they expect me to die,’ he said.
Smith, who also lost his wife Gail to cancer in 2019, is now undergoing immunotherapy in an effort to extend his life.
‘I've really put my hand up to be a guinea pig,’ he said. ‘Plus the fact I don’t want to die, and I want to stay alive with quality for as long as I can.’
‘I wake up every morning hoping there’s no pain because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part. I’ve seen so many deaths. I’ve seen some good ones, and I’ve seen bad ones. I’m hoping I’ll go the nice way.’
In a heartfelt statement, executive producer Jason Herbison expressed, 'The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn’t love him more than we do.'
'Even while facing health challenges, Ian was determined to give Harold a fitting send-off. It was a deeply emotional moment on set as we honoured him and celebrated the immense contribution he has made to the show.'
The Neighbours social media account shared that Ian would reunite with his on-screen wife, Anne Charleston, for some of his final scenes, adding, '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.'
Fans of the show have expressed their heartbreak over Ian’s diagnosis, calling him a 'legend' and 'gentleman.'
'My heart breaks,' one fan wrote. 'Harold was such an icon. Hopefully, his final scenes with Anne are them walking off into the sunset.'
'I'm so sorry to see the news about Ian's cancer diagnosis,' another said. 'Thank you for giving this legend the on-screen send-off he deserves. Much love to Ian.'
Smith’s last appearance on Neighbours will be in April 2025.
Find out how Ian Smith is navigating this difficult time, including how he’s coping, the heartfelt reactions from his co-stars, and more here:
Credit: 10 News First
Our hearts go out to him during this difficult time, and we admire the strength and courage he’s shown. We at the Seniors Discount Club wish Ian Smith a speedy recovery.
What are your favourite Harold Bishop moments? Share your cherished memories and stories in the comments below!
Now, fans are facing a bittersweet moment as the show bids farewell to one of its most cherished figures.
The actor, known for their significant role in the long-running drama, shared a candid update about their condition, reflecting on the journey ahead with remarkable courage.
Ian Smith, who has become a household name for his portrayal of the lovable Harold Bishop, is leaving the show under the most heart-wrenching of circumstances.
Smith has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer, prompting him to make the difficult decision to step away from the show.
‘I found out a few months back that I have cancer…they expect me to die,’ he said.
Smith, who also lost his wife Gail to cancer in 2019, is now undergoing immunotherapy in an effort to extend his life.
‘I've really put my hand up to be a guinea pig,’ he said. ‘Plus the fact I don’t want to die, and I want to stay alive with quality for as long as I can.’
‘I wake up every morning hoping there’s no pain because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part. I’ve seen so many deaths. I’ve seen some good ones, and I’ve seen bad ones. I’m hoping I’ll go the nice way.’
In a heartfelt statement, executive producer Jason Herbison expressed, 'The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn’t love him more than we do.'
'Even while facing health challenges, Ian was determined to give Harold a fitting send-off. It was a deeply emotional moment on set as we honoured him and celebrated the immense contribution he has made to the show.'
The Neighbours social media account shared that Ian would reunite with his on-screen wife, Anne Charleston, for some of his final scenes, adding, '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.'
Fans of the show have expressed their heartbreak over Ian’s diagnosis, calling him a 'legend' and 'gentleman.'
'My heart breaks,' one fan wrote. 'Harold was such an icon. Hopefully, his final scenes with Anne are them walking off into the sunset.'
'I'm so sorry to see the news about Ian's cancer diagnosis,' another said. 'Thank you for giving this legend the on-screen send-off he deserves. Much love to Ian.'
Smith’s last appearance on Neighbours will be in April 2025.
Find out how Ian Smith is navigating this difficult time, including how he’s coping, the heartfelt reactions from his co-stars, and more here:
Credit: 10 News First
Our hearts go out to him during this difficult time, and we admire the strength and courage he’s shown. We at the Seniors Discount Club wish Ian Smith a speedy recovery.
What are your favourite Harold Bishop moments? Share your cherished memories and stories in the comments below!
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