Neighbours' Ian Smith gives 'miracle' cancer update after being told he had months to live
The star, who is known for playing Harold Bishop in the soap, has given an update on his health after being told he had just months to live after being diagnosed with cancer
Neighbours star Ian Smith has shared a remarkable health update
(Image: Amazon Freevee )
Ian Smith, beloved by millions as Harold Bishop from Neighbours, has opened up about his ongoing battle with cancer and the surprising turn of events that has even his medical team taken aback.
The cherished Aussie actor, 86, appeared on The Morning Show on Channel Seven this past week, providing an encouraging update on his wellbeing after receiving a rather bleak initial diagnosis. "I have got cancer. I know that because doctors tell me I have. But apart from that... No pain. I was supposed to die in March," Smith shared openly.
"I am having the easiest ride, seriously." For the latest TV and showbiz news sign up to our newsletter .
He was diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma, an uncommon and aggressive form of lung cancer, in December and was told by doctors the disease was "non-fixable". His prognosis was grim, reports the Mirror..
However following his enrolment in what he refers to as a "guinea pig" experimental treatment scheme he has surpassed predictions.
"I want to go forever," he remarked with a grin.
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"I don't want to play Harold anymore but I don't want to stop acting."
Despite the seriousness of his diagnosis Smith notes that the treatment process has come with a silver lining. "I've possibly never felt better. Everyone looks at me and says: 'Look at your hair'," he chuckled.
"They are all jealous I've got so much hair. I went through the treatment, started to lose my hair, and went totally bald. I then went onto the immunotherapy and got a head full of hair... not just hair, but curly hair."
He's realistic but hopeful, sharing that he now looks forward to 'a year, maybe two' more of life than doctors initially projected. And despite stepping away from Neighbours the veteran performer insists he's not stepping away from the craft that shaped his life. 'I'm not cured,' he admitted. 'But I'm here. And I feel fine.'
His last scenes in the beloved Australian series were deeply moving. Harold's heartfelt announcement that he was relocating to Port Douglas, Queensland, left loyal viewers weeping.
Reflecting on his final scenes Smith expressed that being encircled by his fellow actors made it all the more touching. "I love them all dearly," he exclaimed. "They're like family."
Smith took on the role of Harold back in 1987 and quickly established himself as a fan favourite, celebrated for his character's kindness, fortitude, and remarkable comebacks following various absences.
Now, in real life, Smith is living a storyline even soap writers couldn't dream up. In a recent interview with BBC Radio 5 Live he spoke candidly about how far he's come since doctors first gave him just months to live. 'I've got cancer, yes, I'm going to die soon but I seem to be defying the odds, which is good,' he said.
Earlier in January, Smith disclosed to TV Week that after undergoing three treatment regimes involving immunotherapy and chemotherapy his tumour had started to diminish. This positive change boosts his quiet determination.
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"I've been reborn," he said. "And I've still got stories to tell."
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