Neighbours actor Ian Smith has issued an emotional health update following his terminal cancer diagnosis.
The actor, 86, revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer in December 2024 and was forced to step down from playing Harol Bishop - a role he has played since 1987.
He bid farewell to the Australian soap last month to undergo life-extending treatment. Despite being told he could be dead by March, Ian has shared a positive update regarding his diagnosis.
"I did a PET scan and the words, I believe, were 'significant metabolic change, significant shrinkage of tumour'," he told TV Week. "I've gone from a threat of dying this coming March to maybe a few more months... and now, who knows?"
Ian added: "It's not a cure and it won't be a cure, but I certainly have got a year, maybe two. That's amazing. It really is."
Ian opened up about his devastating diagnosis on Ten News, saying: "I found out a few months back that I have cancer."
He revealed doctors told him it was a "very aggressive non-fixable cancer", adding "And they expect me to … they expect me to die."
Ian has played Harold on Ramsay Street on and off since 1987, first leaving the soap in 1991 but returning in 1996. He then stayed for another 13 years.
He then returned again in 2011 and 2015, before making a highly-anticipated return in 2022 as a series regular.
The date of Ian's final epiode is yet to be revealed, and he is set to continue appearing on screen in the early part of this year. Not many details about his exit have been shared yet but Jason Herbison, the Executive Producer of the soap, said it was a "very emotional moment on set as we paid tribute to him and the incredible contribution he has made to the show".
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A Network 10 spokesperson said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened to hear of Ian Smith's cancer diagnosis.
"A cherished member of the Neighbours family, Ian has been the heart and soul of the show since he first arrived on Ramsay Street in 1987.
"Ian has brought joy, laughter and inspiration to audiences all around the world for decades.
"Along with the cast and crew and all his fans from around the world, we will support Ian in any way we can during this difficult time."
