Kylie Minogue has shared a Neighbours Christmas-themed throwback photo to social media which contains one heartbreaking detail.
The pop princess, who played Charlene Robinson on the long-running series from 1986 – 1988, posted a picture that captured the cast of the soap celebrating the holiday.
The image is from the late 80s and shows veteran actors Kylie, Jason Donovan, Stefan Dennis and many more happily gathering around a Christmas tree.
Kylie is seen leaning on fellow actor Ian Smith, who has appeared regularly on the series since 1987 as Harold Bishop.
She looked radiant in a purple robe while Ian appeared to be having fun in a Santa costume.
The sweet photo captured Kylie and Ian in a tender moment, many years before his heartbreaking cancer diagnosis.
Kylie Minogue has shared a Neighbours Christmas-themed throwback photo to social media which contains one heartbreaking detail. The sweet photo captured Kylie and her co-star Ian Smith in a tender moment, years before his heartbreaking cancer diagnosis
Earlier this month, it was reported that Ian stepped down from his role on Neighbours amid a terminal cancer battle.
The soap opera icon said his prognosis is dire.
‘I found out a few months back that I have cancer,’ the 86-year-old told Ten News.
The actor, who has played the beloved character on Neighbours since 1987, described the cancer as ‘non-fixable’.
‘I have a very aggressive non-fixable cancer and they expect me to die,’ he added.
Ian’s character will be given a fitting send-off from the series, Executive Producer Jason Herbison told the Herald Sun.
‘It was a very emotional moment on set as we paid tribute to him and the incredible contribution he has made to the show,’ he said.
Herbison added that Smith, just like his character, is deeply ‘loved’ by the show and public alike.
Kylie is seen leaning on fellow actor Ian Smith, who has appeared regularly on the series since 1987 as Harold Bishop
Earlier this month, it was reported that Ian Smith has stepped down from his role on Neighbours amid a terminal cancer battle
A Network 10 spokesperson said in a statement: ‘We are deeply saddened to hear of Ian Smith’s cancer diagnosis.
‘A cherished member of the Neighbours family, Ian has been the heart and soul of the show since he first arrived on Ramsay Street in 1987.
‘Ian has brought joy, laughter and inspiration to audiences all around the world for decades.
‘Along with the cast and crew and all his fans from around the world, we will support Ian in any way we can during this difficult time.’
He joined the show as Harold Bishop in 1987, before leaving the series in 1991.
He returned again in 1996, this time staying in the role for over a decade before again leaving in 2009.
He reprised the role in 2011 and again in 2015, before recently returning in 2022 as a series regular.
He reprised the role in 2011 and again in 2015, before recently returning in 2022 as a series regular.
Ian will continue to appear on screen until April 2026.
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