Ian Smith Shares Heartbreaking Update on Terminal Lung Cancer Battle

Ian Smith, best known for his long-running role as Harold Bishop on the Australian soap Neighbours, revealed in a recent interview that he is battling a rare and terminal form of lung cancer called pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma. Smith described his diagnosis as placing him in a 'cruel, ugly, brutal place,' emphasizing the profound uncertainty surrounding his prognosis due to the rarity and severity of the disease. Despite being told he would die in March, Smith has defied expectations thanks to ongoing immunotherapy treatments, though doctors remain unsure about the long-term outlook if he stops therapy. He acknowledged that little is known about his cancer, so he continues medical treatment every three weeks, crediting 'very clever people' with keeping him alive. Smith has recently said farewell to his iconic Neighbours character after decades on the show. His story has resonated with many, highlighting both the emotional toll of rare cancer diagnoses and the hope offered by new treatment approaches.