Harold Bishop quits Neighbours
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,22692146-2,00.htmlHE'S one of the best loved and most recognisable faces on Australian television but the patriarch of Ramsay St is packing his bags and waving goodbye to his Neighbours colleagues.
After 20 years of playing fuddy-duddy Harold Bishop, veteran actor Ian Smith has decided to scale back his full-time commitment to the soap in a bid to ease into retirement.
While Smith will film his last scenes later this month, he won't exit stage left from the Neighbours set entirely - having agreed to a number of guest appearances next year.
The news of Smith's departure has saddened co-stars, with one Neighbours insider yesterday describing him as "the heart and soul" of the program.
"Ian really set the tone of the show, both on the set and behind the scenes," he said.
"As well as being a consummate professional, he's all about creating a positive vibe that brings the cast together.
"He will be very missed but at least he'll be back to say 'hi' next year."
Smith's resignation will disappoint loyal fans of the program - adding yet another a blow to the Channel 10 soap staple which has struggled to lift ratings despite Ramsay St's recent renovation.
While producers have altered scripts and introduced new families and a stream of celebrity guests, the current ratings slide would suggest that not everybody loves good neighbours.
Smith is not just signing-off from playing coffee shop owner Bishop.
His 30-year career in showbiz also includes roles in long-running Australian TV serials Bellbird and Prisoner.
