Neighbours legend Ian Smith is stepping down from his role on the Australian soap after being diagnosed with “non-fixable” cancer.
The actor, 86, who has played Harold Bishop in the show since 1987, revealed the sad news on Monday.
“I found out a few months back that I have cancer,” he told Ten News.
“That I have a very aggressive non-fixable cancer and they expect me to… they expect me to die.”
A post has been shared on the official Neighbours account on Instagram titled: “Harold waves goodbye to Ramsay Street.”
It reads: “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, most recently in the current season.”
Jason Herbison, the soap’s executive producer, said: “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.
“Despite the challenges he was facing with his health, he wanted to give Harold a proper send-off. It was a very emotional moment on set as we paid tribute to him and the incredible contribution he has made to the show.”
The show revealed that actress Anne Charleston, who played Harold’s wife Madge in the soap, is returning to appear in some of his last scenes.
The post said: “We’re also thrilled to announce that Anne Charleston will be joining Ian on set for some of his last scenes. In what context Anne will appear is yet to be revealed, but to have the iconic couple reunited will be one final treat for fans.
“Erinsborough won’t quite be the same again, but rest assured that Harold is set to have a send-off fit for Ramsay Street royalty.”
