Ian Smith leaves Neighbours
Thursday, 28 August 2008
Ian Smith, who stars as legendary character Harold Bishop in 'Neighbours', is leaving the Australian soap after 16 years.
The actor will film his final scenes on the show, which will see trombone player Harold overcome prostate cancer, in October, and his last episodes will be aired in the UK next spring.
Ian first started on 'Neighbours' in 1987 before he left the show for five years in 1991.
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His character Harold then returned in 1996, suffering from amnesia following an accident at sea, to the joy of many fans worldwide.
Following his decision in February to appear only part-time in the soap, Ian admitted he often gets attacked by fans.
He said: "The recognition I get can be ugly. They hunt in packs, see me, laugh, point, sometimes chuck lager and shout things.
"I absolutely hate it and by semi-retiring - just coming back for a stint every four months - I become a bit less recognisable and hopefully less subjected to the horrible abuse I've suffered."
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(C) BANG Media International
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Ian Smith's happy Harold
Ian Smith is "happy" with the way his 'Neighbours' character Harold Bishop is leaving the soap.
Friday, 13 June 2008, 5.01am - in Television
