Ian Smith, known for his role as Harold Bishop on Neighbours, is surprisingly upbeat despite his terminal cancer diagnosis. With his freshly shaved head from chemotherapy, he jokes about being bald for the first time since infancy. Smith has been a staple of Australian television since 1987, appearing in over 2,100 episodes and participating in memorable storylines, including dramatic events like being swept out to sea and recovering from a stroke. He recalls cherished moments from his career, such as meeting the Queen Mother and interacting with famous fans.
Smith's chemotherapy left him with an awful half shaggy, half bald look, so he buzzed it all off. 'First time I've been bald since I was a baby,' he says, happily.
When the cast flew to the UK to perform in the 1988 Royal Variety Show, it was at the personal request of the queen mother, a huge Neighbours fan: 'She shook my hand and said: Oh Mr. Smith, I do enjoy your Harold.'
While other actors came and went, Smith was always Harold. He became one of Neighbours' longest-serving members, appearing in more than 2,100 episodes over five decades.
Harold had the most spectacular storylines. He was swept out to sea and returned five years later with no memory. He survived cancer, car accidents, a heart attack.
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