Neighbours legend Ian Smith makes devastating admission amid terminal cancer diagnosis

After bidding a poignant farewell to just weeks ago, 86-year-old Aussie television legend has made a surprising public appearance - this time, in support of a political cause close to his heart.

In a heartfelt campaign video shared by Independent MP Zoe Daniel, the former soap star, who portrayed the beloved Harold Bishop, can be seen at an early voting centre, speaking candidly with Daniel about his hopes for the future and the urgency he feels in making his final vote matter.

“I’m pretty sure this is going to be my last vote, so you may as well make it count,” Smith tells the 52-year-old politician with a bittersweet smile, before adding with his trademark dry humour: “So if you get in and don’t do what you said, then I am never going to talk to you again."

Smith, who is currently battling terminal cancer, said he was drawn to Daniel’s platform, which focuses on cost-of-living reform, environmental responsibility, and gender equity - issues he believes are critical to ’s future.

“You’re so needed… That’s the only word nobody has used. This person’s beliefs are needed. Please do it,” he implores.

This appearance comes not long after Smith’s emotional final performance on Neighbours, in which Harold Bishop said goodbye to Ramsay Street in a scene that left viewers deeply moved.

As the iconic character prepared to leave Erinsborough for good to join his granddaughter in Queensland, Harold reflected on his journey: “Interesting is one word for it, privileged I think is better. I ended up making the best possible friends a man could ever have… this has been more than a street to me. You’ve been more than neighbours. My life has been enriched by every one of you. You are always in my heart. Always.”

The episode marked the end of an era, and devoted fans took to social media to mourn the departure of one of the soap’s most cherished characters. “Harold… Ian Smith… the legend. Feels like losing a member of my household seeing you go. It’s been a wonderful 40 years. I wish you much happiness and love,” one emotional fan wrote.

Off-screen, Smith’s real-life health story has taken a turn few could have anticipated. Diagnosed late last year with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma - a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer - doctors told the actor he had only weeks to live. But thanks to a pioneering immunotherapy treatment, he’s now defying expectations.

“I was supposed to die in March. I didn’t. So I’m here to talk about me dying last month,” Smith shared in a recent appearance on The Project. “I know I’ve got cancer because doctors keep telling me I have. That’s the only way I know. I’ve got no pain, none of that.”

He joked that he was something of a “guinea pig” for the experimental therapy, which has left him feeling like a new man. Against all odds, Smith now says he’s hopeful for “a year, maybe two” more time to enjoy life and to keep making his voice heard.

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