"Dying does change how you live": Beloved Neighbours star opens up about cancer battle
Veteran Neighbours star Ian Smith, best known for his role as Harold Bishop on the popular long-running show, has shared insights into his ongoing battle with cancer, revealing that despite the challenges, he feels "good".
Smith, 86, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer in 2024, leading to his departure from the beloved soap opera. In a candid interview with The Guardian, he recently reflected on his journey, saying, "I thought I would be stronger, but I am as weak as any human. Dying does change how you live." He added that his illness has made him "more forgiving, more understanding".
The actor began chemotherapy and immunotherapy as part of his treatment, which has proved effective despite his terminal diagnosis. Initially, doctors predicted he wouldn’t survive past March 2024, but his successful response to treatment has extended his life expectancy to Christmas 2026.
"I know I have cancer because doctors keep telling me I have it," he said. "I may get very sick again one day. But I have lived the most privileged life."
Smith first appeared as Harold Bishop in Neighbours in 1987, introduced as the former love interest of Madge Mitchell, played by Anne Charleston. His character became a fan favourite, with Smith making multiple returns to the show over the decades. He initially played Harold from 1987 to 1991 before returning from 1996 to 2009. He later made guest appearances in 2011, 2015, 2022, and most recently in 2024 before stepping away due to his illness.
Upon Smith’s most recent departure, Neighbours Executive Producer Jason Herbison paid tribute to his contribution to the show. "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," Herbison told the Herald Sun.
A spokesperson for Network 10 also expressed admiration for the actor, stating, "We are deeply saddened to hear of Ian Smith's cancer diagnosis. He is a cherished member of the Neighbours family."
Beyond Neighbours, Smith appeared in the cult TV series Prisoner and worked extensively in theatre since the 1950s. His personal life has been marked by both joy and sorrow. His wife, Gail, passed away in 2019 after her own battle with cancer, after the couple had been married for more than 50 years.
Smith also faced personal revelations later in life. At 54, he discovered he had been adopted after his mother, Connie, disclosed the truth before her passing. He later found his biological mother, Peg Kline, who revealed she had conceived him at 14 following a sexual assault. The two maintained a relationship until her death in 2005, also from cancer. Smith shared his adoption story on ABC’s Australian Story.
Despite his health struggles, Smith remains positive and reflective, cherishing the life he has led. His impact on Australian TV has certainly solidified his place as one of the industry’s most beloved figures.
Image: Network 10