Ian Smith, known for starring in Australian soap Neighbours, has announced that he has terminal cancer.
The actor, who has played Harold Bishop on the show, confirmed that he would be leaving the show, after revealing that he was diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer, known as pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma.
Having first appeared on the soap in 1987, Smith was originally supposed to feature for a few episodes, but he subsequently stayed on the soap until 1991. He returned to Neighbours in 1996, remaining on the show until 2009.
Speaking to presenter Angela Bishop, Smith confirmed his terminal cancer diagnosis.
"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", he said.
On having treatment he continued: "I’ve had three chemos – although the first one wasn’t chemo, it was immunotherapy, which is reasonably new, to the medical world".
"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", the 86 year old actor added. "But I wake up every morning hoping there’s no pain because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part".
Taking to social media, Neighbours paid tribute to Smith, while confirming his departure.
"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", they said.
The soap also revealed that actress Anne Charleston, who played Madge, Harold's wife on the show, will also return for some of Smith's last scenes.
A video was also shared online showing a visibly emotional Ian Smith on set for his final scenes, where producer Jason Herbison called him an "icon, legend, Ramsay Street royalty…".
Ian Smith also spoke about losing his wife Gail to cancer in 2019, saying: "That really… I think if that hadn’t happened I’d be a lot worse off now, but my life finished then…".
When asked if he believes he will see Gail again, he replied: "No, that’s why I say I wish I was religious, it would be lovely.
"I don’t hold anything, there are people who practise their religion beautifully and I don’t deride them, I envy them. I think it would be lovely to have that to look forward to, fantastic. Can you imagine?".
The actor offered his own opinion on the subject: "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".
