In a devastating revelation, beloved Australian actor Ian Smith has disclosed that he is battling terminal lung cancer.

The 86-year-old, best known for his role as the affable Harold Bishop on Neighbours, has been diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma—a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer.

Smith, who became a household name across Australia and beyond, shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional interview with 10 News First. “I found out a few months back that I have cancer,” he revealed. “It’s a very aggressive, non-fixable cancer, and they expect me to die.”

Despite the grim prognosis, Smith has embarked on a rigorous treatment journey, undergoing three rounds of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. He described the experience as both a fight for his life and a chance to contribute to medical research.

“I’ve put my hand up to be a guinea pig,” he explained. “I don’t want to die. I want to stay alive with quality for as long as I can. If the treatments can help me achieve that, I’ll be very happy.”

Yet, each morning brings uncertainty. “I wake up hoping there’s no pain,” Smith admitted. “Because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part.”

A Life Marked by Loss

The actor also opened up about the profound impact of losing his wife, Gail, to cancer in 2019. Her death, he said, left an indelible mark on his life.

“When she passed, a part of me died with her,” Smith shared, visibly emotional. “If that hadn’t happened, I think I’d be a lot worse off now. But in many ways, my life ended then.”

Reflecting on his own mortality, Smith expressed a mix of acceptance and hope. “We’re all dying. But when you know exactly when, you become a different person,” he said. “I’ve seen good deaths and bad ones. I’m hoping for a good one.”

A Legendary Career

Ian Smith first graced the set of Neighbours in 1987, originally slated for a short stint. But his character, Harold Bishop, quickly became a fan favorite. His portrayal of the lovable, sometimes bumbling, yet deeply compassionate Harold resonated with audiences, and he remained on the show until 1991.

After a brief departure, Smith returned in 1996, staying until 2009, with several guest appearances in the years that followed. His character’s heart-wrenching storylines—most notably Harold’s disappearance and miraculous return—became defining moments in Neighbours history.

In April 2024, Smith thrilled fans by returning to the show as a regular. However, his recent diagnosis has led him to step away from acting for good.

“It’s not just my last day on Neighbours,” Smith told his castmates in a tearful farewell. “It’s my last day of work. I’ve had the most privileged life. We didn’t just make a soap; we made the best bloody soap there was to make. And I’ve met the most beautiful people along the way.”

A Heartfelt Goodbye

The show’s executive producer, Jason Herbison, confirmed Smith’s departure in a statement posted to X, formerly Twitter. “Harold waves goodbye to Ramsay Street,” the message read. “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 has been a privilege to welcome him back over the years.”

Herbison praised Smith’s resilience and dedication. “Despite the challenges with his health, Ian wanted to give Harold a proper send-off. It was an incredibly emotional moment on set as we honored his remarkable contribution to Neighbours.”

Smith leaves behind a legacy that transcends television. For fans of Neighbours, Harold Bishop was more than a character—he was family. And for Ian Smith, the fight continues, with dignity, grace, and a life well-lived.

“I just hope I go the nice way,” Smith said softly, a sentiment echoed by millions of fans who have loved him for decades.