Harold Bishop
Encyclopedia
Harold Bishop is a fictional character
from the Australian soap opera Neighbours
, played by Ian Smith
. He made his first on-screen appearance on 30 January 1987. Smith was offered a role by Neighbours creator and executive producer Reg Watson
. He departed in September 1991, but returned five years later in October 1996 and remained on screen for over twelve years, making him the second longest-running character in the show's history, surpassed only by Lou Carpenter
. Smith announced Harold's departure from Neighbours in August 2008 and he made his final appearance 27 February 2009. In December 2010, it was announced that Smith would be reprising his role as Harold for a return in 2011.
, with which Smith had been a script editor. Smith agreed to join Neighbours and asked if he could write for the show too. Smith was given the role of Harold, a part that was only supposed to last for five weeks. A couple of weeks after he had finished filming, Smith was asked back. Comedian Peter Moon
revealed in 2009 that he had originally auditioned for the role of Harold. Moon said "Ian Smith beat me to it, so it is kind of weird thinking about the life I could have had. When I auditioned, I went into wardrobe and they gave me a pair of shoes to wear that had Harold written on them". Moon was eventually given a role with the soap twenty years later. Smith was written out in 1991, before making a return in 1996. Harold later became the second longest-running character in the show's history.
Smith decided to go part time on the show in 2007. He had been ready to depart Neighbours for good, but the producers did not want him to leave. They then offered him a compromise, which would see Smith film for six weeks and then have a four month break. Smith said that he was "awfully glad" that the producers talked him into coming back and explained, "I'm not retiring, but I am walking away from having to work 13-hour days, day after day." Smith began appearing intermittently during 2008 and this forced the writers to take Harold in a new direction. Harold's first departure saw him leave Ramsay Street for a tour around Australia.
(Anne Charleston
) until they were married. Virgin Media
said Harold is "prim and proper" and "an old-fashioned fuddy-duddy." They also state he is the complete opposite of Madge and add he is "famed for his vegetarian ways, tee-total habits and fastidiousness and moralising" Harold's hobbies include playing the tuba
, giving his time to the Salvation Army
and birdwatching. He once had a comedic alter ego named "Afro Harold."
In 2003, Harold suffers a stroke and his personality changes. He leaves the Salvation Army, becomes a "peeping tom", starts drinking alcohol and he pinches Izzy Hoyland's (Natalie Bassingthwaighte
) bottom. Smith researched stokes and how they affect a person's psyche after becoming concerned that Harold's behaviour would stretch his character's credibility too much. Harold later recovers and returns back to his previous ways. Network Ten
have said that Harold is the "undisputed patriarch of Erinsborough" and the heart and soul of the community.
(Tom Oliver
) was initially Harold's "nemesis" and rival for Madge's affections. They had both fallen for Madge while they were all at school together. Lou arrives in Ramsay Street to steal Madge from Harold before she marries him, but he cannot stop the wedding and he leaves. Lou later returns and becomes friends with Harold. Oliver said that some reviewers had likened Lou and Harold's relationship to Laurel and Hardy
and The Odd Couple
". The Courier-Mail said Harold and Lou's friendship was one of their favourite "bromances" on television. They said their most bromantic moment was "When Harold returned to Erinsborough, after being feared drowned for many years, he had no memory of his old life. But when Lou served him jelly one night Harold suddenly remembered how Lou used to tease him at school by calling him "Jelly Belly" and, presto, his memory was restored." Harold is imprisoned after a case of mistaken identity and Lou raises the money for his bail. Harold later donates a kidney to Lou and they go into business together, founding the General Store. Harold and Lou both fall for Rosie Hoyland (Maggie Millar
), which leads to some arguments and Harold destroying a love letter from Lou to Rosie. When Gino Esposito
(Shane McNamara
) moves in with Harold, the writers decided to tweak the "standard love triangle story" with Lou becoming jealous of the Gino and Harold's friendship. Harold and Gino get along very well and share a love of Broadway musical DVDs. Of this, Peter Mattessi of The Age
said "The tension this created between Lou and Harold ("same-sex platonic life-partners", according to Toadie) was a wonderful storytelling twist, and the innuendo made Gino's sexuality clear to those in the know, yet avoided the questions from younger viewers which would jeopardise the G rating." After Smith announced his departure in 2008, Oliver was asked if Lou would be sad about his best friend's exit and he said "Oh yes, definitely, but the old rascals keep in touch all the time. It was a sad farewell. Not just in character, but for me and Ian [Smith] too".
The Telegraph
reported that Harold would leave Erinsborough after successfully winning a fight with prostate cancer
. After Harold returns from a road trip, he accompanies Lou to see Karl Kennedy
(Alan Fletcher). Karl suggests to Harold that he has a check-up and he is diagnosed with prostate cancer, which needs immediate medical attention. Due to Harold's Christian beliefs and the loss of Madge to cancer, he believes that the diagnosis is "fate trying to reunite them" and he refuses treatment. Fletcher said "Harold obviously has a lot of things to think about. He had to weigh up his belief that he'll be reunited with Madge against the love he feels for his friends and family who are still alive. It's a very difficult situation to be in." Harold shuts everyone out of his life as he tries to cope with the news. After speaking to neighbour and fellow cancer sufferer, Stephanie Scully
(Carla Bonner
), Harold eventually agrees to have surgery and undergoes chemotherapy treatment.
While cheering up Donna Freedman
(Margot Robbie
) at the General Store, Harold suffers a heart attack, which leaves him fighting for his life. His friends and neighbours hold a 24-hour vigil at the hospital hoping he will pull through. Harold later flat-lines and Karl, despite knowing it could get him into trouble with the hospital authorities, decides to go against his wish not to be resuscitated. Fletcher said "Harold's heart stops beating, so Karl chooses to override his wishes and bring him back to life. As he fears, Harold is furious with him when he regains consciousness, insisting that he wanted to be reunited with his beloved wife, Madge, who died of cancer. Because of Karl's actions, Harold feels as though Madge has been taken away from him twice." Harold forgives Karl for saving him, but he makes it clear that he no longer wants to live. Harold eventually recovers and he decides to leave Erinsborough to go and live with his granddaughter. Smith's final scenes as Harold were broadcast on 27 February 2009 in Australia. During an interview with Digital Spy
, executive producer, Susan Bower
, said she thought the character should have been killed off during the cancer storyline. She added "But I'm delighted that he is alive and well and enjoying himself and the fact that we've got a lovely photograph of him in the store and we named the store after Harold, at least means that his spirit will always live on."
revealed to TV Week
that Smith would be reprising his role and returning to Neighbours the following year. Moloney said Smith will appear "for a little bit" and it was later reported by the Herald Sun
that Smith will return for six weeks. Smith began filming his comeback scenes in February 2011. He told Holy Soap
that he was surprised when he was asked to return to Neighbours. He sat down with his wife and they agreed that he should go back to the show for a brief return. Smith later revealed that he was returning to work because he had suffered during the recession and wanted to earn some money. He also said that the chance to play Harold again was "appealing" and that he did not get a chance to say a proper goodbye to him. Smith has vowed that this will be his last return to the show, as he and his wife have plans to travel through central Australia.
Harold returned on 9 May 2011. His return storyline saw him come back to Ramsay Street to help a friend. Smith said that viewers will think they know who it is, but they would be wrong. Smith said "And of course there's human pathos, there's laughs – lots of laughs – [and] a little bit of romance, but I'm not saying who for, because I don't think she/he would like me to let it out. Look, there's a little bit of everything, but the thing is it's all a happy ending and it couldn't be better, and I loved it." Smith pitched one idea for Harold's return and he said that it would be interesting to revisit the character once more. A few months later it was revealed that Harold comes back to Erinsborough after receiving a call for help from Toadfish Rebecchi
. Not all of Harold's help is "received as graciously as it's given" and Harold's new relationship with Carolyn (Paula Duncan
) is not welcomed by some of the neighbours. Smith told Inside Soap that when the producers asked him if there was a particular storyline he would like to play to play, he suggested that Harold should get married and so he returns engaged. Harold's news is not well received by his best friend.
and he later marries Mavis and they have two children, David
(Kevin Harrington) and Kerry
(Linda Hartley-Clark). Mavis dies and leaves Harold to cope with his teenage children alone. Harold enjoys a close relationship with David, but Kerry rebels against Harold's conservative ways and she leaves to travel the world. David later moves to Adelaide, leaving Harold alone.
(Kylie Minogue
), calls Harold and invites him to Erinsborough
to see Madge. Harold surprises Madge when he arrives on her doorstep and he is keen to rekindle their romance. Harold decides to settle in the area and he opens a health food shop and moves in with Nell Mangel
(Vivean Gray
), who secretly admires Harold as he is a churchgoer like she is. Harold proposes to Madge, but he calls off the wedding when Charlene wants to move in with Scott Robinson
(Jason Donovan
) out of wedlock and Madge throws her ring in Lassiter's Lake. Harold takes over the Coffee Shop, when Daphne Clarke
(Elaine Smith
) goes on maternity leave. Daphne dies and Harold stays on as permanent manager, he also writes for the Erinsborough News.
Eileen Clarke (Myra De Groot
) spreads rumours that Harold is a lady-killer and when Harold discovers that people are talking about him, he tries to leave town. Charlene tells Harold that she has not finished working on his brakes, but he does not listen and crashes his car. Harold breaks both arms and Madge realises that she loves Harold and they resume their engagement. Lou Carpenter arrives in town and declares his love for Madge, Harold punches him during a fight. Madge chooses Harold and they marry. Harold saves Des Clarke
's (Paul Keane
) life and Des offers him a partnership in the Coffee Shop. Harold and Madge later buy Des out.
Kerry shows up and Harold is shocked to find out that she had had a child out of wedlock, but he is delighted to be a grandfather to, Sky
(Miranda Fryer
). Harold invites Kerry to move in with him and Madge. Harold is initially against Kerry's relationship with Joe Mangel
(Mark Little
), but he sees how much Joe loves her and Sky and gives their relationship his blessing. Joe and Kerry marry and Joe's son, Toby
(Finn Greentree-Keane) calls Harold "grandad". Harold and Madge win the lottery and take a trip around the world, they meet Eddie Buckingham
(Bob La Castra
) in England and he comes home with them. Kerry is shot and killed by a duck hunter, which devastates Harold. He develops a stronger bond with Joe as a result. Harold suffers a heart attack when he discovers that Madge has invited Lou to stay. Harold and Madge decide to go on holiday. During a walk on a coastal path, Madge stops to talk to a painter and when she looks around, Harold is nowhere to be seen. Madge finds Harold's glasses at the edge of a cliff and his body is not found.
(Moya O'Sullivan). As Harold leaves, he bumps into Helen Daniels
(Anne Haddy
) who is shocked to see him. She tries to track him down and leaves her number for Harold at the Salvation Army shop. Harold calls Helen and comes to see her, but he becomes frustrated as he does not remember the things she tells him and leaves. Helen calls Madge, who had moved away, to tell her that Harold is alive and Madge flies to Erinsborough.
Marlene invites Harold to join her for lunch at the Coffee Shop, where Helen, Lou and Madge are waiting. Harold recognises Madge, but he has no idea that she is his wife until she tells him everything. Harold starts counselling and his memory returns. Harold and Madge renew their wedding vows and they move to Queensland. Harold returns to Erinsborough to play the tuba in a Salvation Army concert and he rents his old house. He and Madge eventually move back and they buy the Coffee Shop. Harold befriends Paul McClain
(Jansen Spencer
) and he and Madge foster him. They later foster Paul's friend, Tad Reeves
(Jonathon Dutton
) too. Harold and Madge decided to take over the running of Grease Monkeys, but they later sell the business.
Madge is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given six months to live, which devastates Harold. Madge develops septicaemia and Karl Kennedy tells Harold that Madge only has a short time left. Madge dies in Harold's arms. Both Paul and Tad leave and Lou moves in. Rosie Hoyland (Maggie Millar
) arrives and Harold and Lou become rivals for her love, but she tells Harold that she just wants to be friends. Harold then finds himself rejecting Valda Sheergold's (Joan Sydney
) advances. Harold tries a dating agency and start dating Ruby Dwyer (Maureen Edwards
), though she is just using him for money. Harold donates a kidney to Lou and when he is released from hospital, he discovers that his house has been burgled. He discovers that it was Ruby, but he tries to help her gambling problem and she later leaves to see her son.
Sky returns to see Harold and he shocked she is now a rebellious teenager with black and blue hair. Harold offers to tell her more about Kerry and he introduces her to Boyd Hoyland
(Kyal Marsh
). David, his wife, Liljana
(Marcella Russo
) and their daughter, Serena
(Lara Sacher
) also come to town. Harold is unhappy at David's behaviour, the way Liljana takes over his kitchen and how Serena is spoilt. Harold and David make up and Harold invites him to move in with him and Sky. Harold suffers a stroke and his personality changes. Harold becomes rude and selfish, he starts eating meat and drinking and he leaves the Salvation Army. Harold later recovers and goes back to normal. A fire sweeps through the Lassiter's Complex and burns the Coffee Shop to the ground. He sets up a temporary Coffee Shop at the Community Hall with Paul Robinson
's (Stefan Dennis
) help. Harold goes into business with Lou and they open the General Store. Joe returns and stays with Harold.
Sky, David, Liljana and Serena are involved in a plane crash. Sky is found and days later David's body is recovered. Liljana and Serena are never found. Harold goes into denial and punches Joe, Sky tells him that she needs him and he snaps out of it. Harold blames Paul Robinson for David, Liljana and Serena's deaths and he strangles Paul from behind. Paul survives and Harold later confesses to Paul, who does not press charges. Harold leaves town for a little while and on his return, he discovers that Sky is pregnant. Harold has a brief romance with Loris Timmins (Kate Fitzpatrick
) and Sky gives birth to a daughter, Kerry (Claudine Henningsen). Sky moves away to be with Kerry's father and Harold throws himself into work at the General Store. He later decides to pack up and travel around the country. Harold meets Kate Newton (Briony Behets
) and they briefly stop over in Erinsborough, before leaving together.
Harold returns for Christmas and goes for a checkup. He is shocked when Karl tells him that he has prostate cancer and needs urgent treatment. Harold does not take the news well, but Karl eventually convinces him to fight. Harold has an operation and begins chemotherapy after speaking to Stephanie Scully. Harold later suffers a heart attack and Karl ignores his wishes not to be resuscitated. Harold's cancer goes into remission and he decides to go and be with Sky. He gives his home to the Salvation Army and says goodbye to Susan Kennedy
(Jackie Woodburne
) when she sees him taking photos of Ramsay Street. The next day he says goodbye to everyone else and drives out of town. When he stops for tea, he discovers that Lou has been hiding in his camper van and they continue the journey together.
Two years later, Harold returns to Ramsay Street after receiving a call for help from Toadie, who is dealing with the news that Sonya Mitchell
(Eve Morey
) is the mother of his adopted son, Callum
(Morgan Baker
). Harold visits Sonya to get her side of the story and Harold tells Toadie that he should be a little more forgiving. Harold meets Troy Miller (Dieter Brummer
), but fails to pass his number onto Toadie as he thinks he has enough to deal with. Harold takes a couple of secret calls and when he receives a text in front of Toadie, he reveals that he is in a relationship with a woman named Carolyn. He explains that she founded a tea company and when he enquired about it, they met and fell in love. Harold also reveals that he is engaged to Carolyn. Harold encourages Toadie to speak to Sonya, but Toadie tells him that he needs time. Harold then sees Sonya and Troy kissing and Sonya asks him not to tell Toadie. Carolyn arrives and she and Harold confront Troy together. Carolyn later suggests that she and Harold get married in Erinsborough. Lou returns to town and goes to see Harold, who tells him about Carolyn. Lou tells Harold that he thinks Carolyn is stuck up and he tries to organise a buck's night. Carolyn is against the idea, so Harold gets them to compromise on a joint party at Charlie's. Troy comes along and when he and Harold get some drinks, Troy physically threatens him. Harold tells Toadie about Troy.
On his wedding day, Harold goes to visit Madge's grave and is late for the ceremony. Following his arrival, he and Carolyn get married. Harold and Carolyn return for their honeymoon and try to tell Lou that he has taken on too much at the car yard and that he needs to slow down, but Lou does not listen to them and he later collapses. Harold and Carolyn go to the hospital and Harold tells Lou to start taking his health seriously. He is pleased when Lou announces his intentions to sell the car yard. Harold and Carolyn begin packing the van, so they can leave, when Callum asks them to get Sonya to move back in with him and Toadie. Harold speaks with Toadie and tries to convince him that Sonya should move back in. Toadie likes the sound of the idea, but thinks it is too soon. Harold and Carolyn are sorry they could not convince Sonya and Toadie to move in together. After saying goodbye to Lou, Harold and Carolyn are delighted when Toadie and Sonya reveal that they are moving back in together. Toadie thanks Harold for everything that he has done and Harold and Carolyn leave.
, he was nominated for "Funniest Performance". The following year saw Smith nominated for "Funniest Performance" again and "Best Actor". In 2009, Smith was once again nominted for "Funniest Performance" and "Best Storyline" for Harold's cancer. That same year he was nominated for the "Most Popular Personality
" and "Most Popular Actor" Logie Award
s.
Television critic Charlie Brooker
praised the character of Harold in 2005, saying "Thank God then, for Harold Bishop, who looks precisely the same as he always did – just slightly more so. His is probably the friendliest face on television – a cross between 10 Toytown mayors and a baby". Virgin Media included Harold in their top ten favourite soap characters poll in 2007. They also express that he's become "one of the most popular Ramsey Street residents." After listing his many storylines, Paul Kalina of The Age
asked whether there were any plot devices left for the writers to give Harold. He went on to say that Harold's 2008 exit was "a criminally low-key send-off for Neighbours most colourful and longest-standing cast member. For the best part of two decades, Harold was the moral compass of Ramsay Street, a paragon of the decent-in-a-sliced-white-bread-kind-of-way and nostalgic ideals that distinguishes the squeaky clean Neighbours from a legion of more temperate television soaps. Kalina added that the writers had "better be working up something damned good for when Harold returns."
Ruth Deller of entertainment website Lowculture
expressed her sadness over Harold's cancer storyline saying, "Poor Jellybelly. There might have been a little bit of tear-shedding this week at his cancer diagnosis and trip to Madge's grave. We love you Hazza! The current web campaigns to get Ian Smith a golden logie after 20 years on Neighbours also have our support, in a very nominal kind of way." Of his 2009 departure, Deller said "Actor Ian Smith is retiring, which is the kind of behaviour we expect from normal people, not soap stars. He and his wife are going to be 'grey nomads' – the term for Australians who spend their retirement travelling the country in trailer homes. And in a case of art imitating life, that's exactly what Hazza will be doing. [..] To be fair, although I'm sad to see old Jelly Belly depart, it's a nice way to go: much better than him having a second screen death, or moving to live with the whiny Sky. Considering that Harold has had one of the most tragic lives of any Ramsay Street resident (two dead wives, two dead children, a dead grandchild, a dead daughter in law, being missing presumed dead for several years, watching Sky turn from fierce funky teen to moaning nymphomaniac, becoming insane and murderous, being conned by a variety of unscrupulous women and so on), giving him a happy ending is even sweeter." Sarah Megginson of SheKnows placed Harold's departure on her "8 Most Memorable Neighbours Moments".
In 2010, to celebrate Neighbours 25th anniversary, British Sky Broadcasting
profiled twenty-five characters of which they believed were the most memorable in the series' history. Harold was included in the list and they describe him as having no luck in life, they added "Harold Bishop is proof that bad things happen to good people. Harold made Helen Daniels look like a manipulative harpy, and yet the universe still conspired to sweep him out to sea, give him amnesia for several years, and to give his wife Madge terminal cancer. This is all tear-jerking stuff, but the death of his son David's family in a plane crash and Harold subsequently putting a brave face on the situation turned the end of three unloved characters into one of the soap's saddest storylines in years."
Fictional character
A character is the representation of a person in a narrative work of art . Derived from the ancient Greek word kharaktêr , the earliest use in English, in this sense, dates from the Restoration, although it became widely used after its appearance in Tom Jones in 1749. From this, the sense of...
from the Australian soap opera Neighbours
Neighbours
Neighbours is an Australian television soap opera first broadcast on the Seven Network on 18 March 1985. It was created by TV executive Reg Watson, who proposed the idea of making a show that focused on realistic stories and portrayed adults and teenagers who talk openly and solve their problems...
, played by Ian Smith
Ian Smith (actor)
Ian Smith is an Australian soap opera character actor and television screenwriter, best known today for his long-running role as the caring, kindly coffee shop owner Harold Bishop in the soap opera Neighbours....
. He made his first on-screen appearance on 30 January 1987. Smith was offered a role by Neighbours creator and executive producer Reg Watson
Reg Watson
Reginald James "Reg" Watson AM is an Australian television producer, best known for creating soap operas like Prisoner and Neighbours.-Career:...
. He departed in September 1991, but returned five years later in October 1996 and remained on screen for over twelve years, making him the second longest-running character in the show's history, surpassed only by Lou Carpenter
Lou Carpenter
Louis "Lou" Carpenter is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Tom Oliver. He made his first on-screen appearance on 30 March 1988. Lou appeared for a brief time, before leaving and later returning in January 1992 as a regular cast member. He is the longest...
. Smith announced Harold's departure from Neighbours in August 2008 and he made his final appearance 27 February 2009. In December 2010, it was announced that Smith would be reprising his role as Harold for a return in 2011.
Casting
Reg Watson offered Smith a role in Neighbours following the end of his television drama, PrisonerPrisoner (TV series)
Prisoner is an Australian television soap opera which was set in the Wentworth Detention Centre, a fictional women's prison. The series was produced by the Reg Grundy Organisation and ran on Network Ten for 692 episodes from 27 February 1979 to 11 December 1986.The series was inspired by the 1970s...
, with which Smith had been a script editor. Smith agreed to join Neighbours and asked if he could write for the show too. Smith was given the role of Harold, a part that was only supposed to last for five weeks. A couple of weeks after he had finished filming, Smith was asked back. Comedian Peter Moon
Peter Moon (comedian)
Peter Moon is an Australian comedian, best known for writing and performing in the sketch comedy Fast Forward....
revealed in 2009 that he had originally auditioned for the role of Harold. Moon said "Ian Smith beat me to it, so it is kind of weird thinking about the life I could have had. When I auditioned, I went into wardrobe and they gave me a pair of shoes to wear that had Harold written on them". Moon was eventually given a role with the soap twenty years later. Smith was written out in 1991, before making a return in 1996. Harold later became the second longest-running character in the show's history.
Smith decided to go part time on the show in 2007. He had been ready to depart Neighbours for good, but the producers did not want him to leave. They then offered him a compromise, which would see Smith film for six weeks and then have a four month break. Smith said that he was "awfully glad" that the producers talked him into coming back and explained, "I'm not retiring, but I am walking away from having to work 13-hour days, day after day." Smith began appearing intermittently during 2008 and this forced the writers to take Harold in a new direction. Harold's first departure saw him leave Ramsay Street for a tour around Australia.
Characterisation
Harold is described as being "indecisive, considerate, stuffy and reserved." Harold is a Christian and never misses church on Sunday, he was also once an "enthusiastic" Scout leader. Due to his ways, Harold would not live with Madge RamsayMadge Bishop
Margaret Mary "Madge" Bishop is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Anne Charleston. She made her first on-screen appearance on 20 January 1986. Madge was one of the matriarchs of the Ramsay family. She departed in 1992, before making a return in 1996...
(Anne Charleston
Anne Charleston
Anne Charleston is an Australian actress currently based in Galway, Ireland and the UK. She is known for her roles as Madge Bishop in the Australian soap opera Neighbours and Lily Butterfield in Emmerdale.-Early career:...
) until they were married. Virgin Media
Virgin Media
Virgin Media Inc. is a company which provides fixed and mobile telephone, television and broadband internet services to businesses and consumers in the United Kingdom...
said Harold is "prim and proper" and "an old-fashioned fuddy-duddy." They also state he is the complete opposite of Madge and add he is "famed for his vegetarian ways, tee-total habits and fastidiousness and moralising" Harold's hobbies include playing the tuba
Tuba
The tuba is the largest and lowest-pitched brass instrument. Sound is produced by vibrating or "buzzing" the lips into a large cupped mouthpiece. It is one of the most recent additions to the modern symphony orchestra, first appearing in the mid-19th century, when it largely replaced the...
, giving his time to the Salvation Army
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a Protestant Christian church known for its thrift stores and charity work. It is an international movement that currently works in over a hundred countries....
and birdwatching. He once had a comedic alter ego named "Afro Harold."
In 2003, Harold suffers a stroke and his personality changes. He leaves the Salvation Army, becomes a "peeping tom", starts drinking alcohol and he pinches Izzy Hoyland's (Natalie Bassingthwaighte
Natalie Bassingthwaighte
Natalie Bassingthwaighte is an Australian actress, singer-songwriter and television personality. She began her career as an actress on the television series All Saints. She then starred in the American television movie Counterstrike...
) bottom. Smith researched stokes and how they affect a person's psyche after becoming concerned that Harold's behaviour would stretch his character's credibility too much. Harold later recovers and returns back to his previous ways. Network Ten
Network Ten
Network Ten , is one of Australia's three major commercial television networks. Owned-and-operated stations can be found in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, while affiliates extend the network to cover most of the country...
have said that Harold is the "undisputed patriarch of Erinsborough" and the heart and soul of the community.
Friendship with Lou Carpenter
Lou CarpenterLou Carpenter
Louis "Lou" Carpenter is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Tom Oliver. He made his first on-screen appearance on 30 March 1988. Lou appeared for a brief time, before leaving and later returning in January 1992 as a regular cast member. He is the longest...
(Tom Oliver
Tom Oliver
Tom Oliver is an English television, film and theatre actor best known today for playing the role of Lou Carpenter in the Australian soap opera Neighbours.-Career:...
) was initially Harold's "nemesis" and rival for Madge's affections. They had both fallen for Madge while they were all at school together. Lou arrives in Ramsay Street to steal Madge from Harold before she marries him, but he cannot stop the wedding and he leaves. Lou later returns and becomes friends with Harold. Oliver said that some reviewers had likened Lou and Harold's relationship to Laurel and Hardy
Laurel and Hardy
Laurel and Hardy were one of the most popular and critically acclaimed comedy double acts of the early Classical Hollywood era of American cinema...
and The Odd Couple
The Odd Couple (film)
The Odd Couple is a 1968 comedy film written by Neil Simon, based on his play The Odd Couple, directed by Gene Saks, and starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau...
". The Courier-Mail said Harold and Lou's friendship was one of their favourite "bromances" on television. They said their most bromantic moment was "When Harold returned to Erinsborough, after being feared drowned for many years, he had no memory of his old life. But when Lou served him jelly one night Harold suddenly remembered how Lou used to tease him at school by calling him "Jelly Belly" and, presto, his memory was restored." Harold is imprisoned after a case of mistaken identity and Lou raises the money for his bail. Harold later donates a kidney to Lou and they go into business together, founding the General Store. Harold and Lou both fall for Rosie Hoyland (Maggie Millar
Maggie Millar
Maggie Millar is an Australian actress, best known for her TV appearances as Marie Winter in Prisoner, Elizabeth Bradley in The Sullivans and Rosie Hoyland in Neighbours.-External links:*...
), which leads to some arguments and Harold destroying a love letter from Lou to Rosie. When Gino Esposito
Gino Esposito
Gino Esposito is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Shane McNamara. The character made his first on-screen appearance on 11 August 2000 and was originally played by Claude Stevens. Gino was the owner of the A Good Hair Day, salon, which both Lyn Scully and...
(Shane McNamara
Shane McNamara
Shane McNamara is an Australian television and film actor who is best known for his many appearances in the recurring role of Gino Esposito in the Australian soap opera Neighbours....
) moves in with Harold, the writers decided to tweak the "standard love triangle story" with Lou becoming jealous of the Gino and Harold's friendship. Harold and Gino get along very well and share a love of Broadway musical DVDs. Of this, Peter Mattessi of The Age
The Age
The Age is a daily broadsheet newspaper, which has been published in Melbourne, Australia since 1854. Owned and published by Fairfax Media, The Age primarily serves Victoria, but is also available for purchase in Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and border regions of South Australia and...
said "The tension this created between Lou and Harold ("same-sex platonic life-partners", according to Toadie) was a wonderful storytelling twist, and the innuendo made Gino's sexuality clear to those in the know, yet avoided the questions from younger viewers which would jeopardise the G rating." After Smith announced his departure in 2008, Oliver was asked if Lou would be sad about his best friend's exit and he said "Oh yes, definitely, but the old rascals keep in touch all the time. It was a sad farewell. Not just in character, but for me and Ian [Smith] too".
Cancer and departure
In August 2008, it was announced that Smith had quit Neighbours. Paula Lucarelli of Network Ten said "When the discussions were made about his decision to go part-time last year, he said it was only going to be for a short time and then he would let us know. Production was aware that it would be coming." Smith began filming his final scenes in October of that year for a departure in February 2009. Smith revealed that he quit Neighbours, so he could travel more and because he was getting "ongoing abuse" from local people. He explained "You know it's time to move on when you're being hassled outside your home every night by drunk idiots screaming abuse. I got so fed up I ended up calling the police. They were making my life hell."The Telegraph
The Daily Telegraph
The Daily Telegraph is a daily morning broadsheet newspaper distributed throughout the United Kingdom and internationally. The newspaper was founded by Arthur B...
reported that Harold would leave Erinsborough after successfully winning a fight with prostate cancer
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the prostate, a gland in the male reproductive system. Most prostate cancers are slow growing; however, there are cases of aggressive prostate cancers. The cancer cells may metastasize from the prostate to other parts of the body, particularly...
. After Harold returns from a road trip, he accompanies Lou to see Karl Kennedy
Karl Kennedy
Karl Raymond Kennedy is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Alan Fletcher. The character and his family were created by storyliners in an attempt to bring the show back to its roots. Karl made his first on-screen appearance on 20 September 1994 along with his...
(Alan Fletcher). Karl suggests to Harold that he has a check-up and he is diagnosed with prostate cancer, which needs immediate medical attention. Due to Harold's Christian beliefs and the loss of Madge to cancer, he believes that the diagnosis is "fate trying to reunite them" and he refuses treatment. Fletcher said "Harold obviously has a lot of things to think about. He had to weigh up his belief that he'll be reunited with Madge against the love he feels for his friends and family who are still alive. It's a very difficult situation to be in." Harold shuts everyone out of his life as he tries to cope with the news. After speaking to neighbour and fellow cancer sufferer, Stephanie Scully
Stephanie Scully
Stephanie Jo "Steph" Scully is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Carla Bonner. She made her first on-screen appearance on 21 October 1999. Stephanie is the eldest daughter of Joe and Lyn Scully and the mother to a son, Charlie...
(Carla Bonner
Carla Bonner
Carla Bonner is an Australian actress best known for playing the role of Steph Scully in the soap opera Neighbours, a role she played from 1999 to 2010...
), Harold eventually agrees to have surgery and undergoes chemotherapy treatment.
While cheering up Donna Freedman
Donna Freedman
Donna Jane Brown is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Margot Robbie. She made her first on-screen appearance on 2 June 2008. Donna was initially a guest character, but Robbie was promoted to regular cast member shortly after she made her debut...
(Margot Robbie
Margot Robbie
Margot Robbie is an Australian actress. She is known for her role as Donna Freedman on the soap opera Neighbours, which earned her two Logie Award nominations. In 2011, Robbie began appearing as Laura Cameron in the ABC drama series Pan Am.-Early life:Robbie was born on 2 July 1990 and grew up on...
) at the General Store, Harold suffers a heart attack, which leaves him fighting for his life. His friends and neighbours hold a 24-hour vigil at the hospital hoping he will pull through. Harold later flat-lines and Karl, despite knowing it could get him into trouble with the hospital authorities, decides to go against his wish not to be resuscitated. Fletcher said "Harold's heart stops beating, so Karl chooses to override his wishes and bring him back to life. As he fears, Harold is furious with him when he regains consciousness, insisting that he wanted to be reunited with his beloved wife, Madge, who died of cancer. Because of Karl's actions, Harold feels as though Madge has been taken away from him twice." Harold forgives Karl for saving him, but he makes it clear that he no longer wants to live. Harold eventually recovers and he decides to leave Erinsborough to go and live with his granddaughter. Smith's final scenes as Harold were broadcast on 27 February 2009 in Australia. During an interview with Digital Spy
Digital Spy
Digital Spy is a British entertainment and media news website. According to Alexa Internet traffic statistics, as of February 2011, Digital Spy is the 93rd most popular website in the United Kingdom, with an overall Alexa ranking of 2,088....
, executive producer, Susan Bower
Susan Bower
Susan Bower is an Australian television producer and television writer best known for her work on the soap opera Neighbours.-Career:Bower is a former nurse who worked at The Alfred Hospital for 20 years before getting her scriptwriting breakthrough on A Country Practice, where she provided the...
, said she thought the character should have been killed off during the cancer storyline. She added "But I'm delighted that he is alive and well and enjoying himself and the fact that we've got a lovely photograph of him in the store and we named the store after Harold, at least means that his spirit will always live on."
Return
In December 2010, cast member Ryan MoloneyRyan Moloney
Ryan Moloney is an Australian actor best known for his portrayal of the fictional character Jarrod "Toadfish" Rebecchi in the Australian soap opera Neighbours.-Before Neighbours:...
revealed to TV Week
TV Week
TV Week is a weekly television magazine in Australia, first published as a Melbourne-only publication in December 1957 , and bearing a strong affiliation to television station GTV.The publication is still publishing weekly...
that Smith would be reprising his role and returning to Neighbours the following year. Moloney said Smith will appear "for a little bit" and it was later reported by the Herald Sun
Herald Sun
The Herald Sun is a morning tabloid newspaper based in Melbourne, Australia. It is published by The Herald and Weekly Times, a subsidiary of News Limited, itself a subsidiary of News Corporation. It is available for purchase throughout Melbourne, Regional Victoria, Tasmania, the Australian Capital...
that Smith will return for six weeks. Smith began filming his comeback scenes in February 2011. He told Holy Soap
Holy Soap
Holy Soap is a UK television and entertainment website founded in June 2009 by the British television company Channel 5. The website is the official UK home of the Australian soap operas Home and Away and Neighbours, which are broadcast on the channel...
that he was surprised when he was asked to return to Neighbours. He sat down with his wife and they agreed that he should go back to the show for a brief return. Smith later revealed that he was returning to work because he had suffered during the recession and wanted to earn some money. He also said that the chance to play Harold again was "appealing" and that he did not get a chance to say a proper goodbye to him. Smith has vowed that this will be his last return to the show, as he and his wife have plans to travel through central Australia.
Harold returned on 9 May 2011. His return storyline saw him come back to Ramsay Street to help a friend. Smith said that viewers will think they know who it is, but they would be wrong. Smith said "And of course there's human pathos, there's laughs – lots of laughs – [and] a little bit of romance, but I'm not saying who for, because I don't think she/he would like me to let it out. Look, there's a little bit of everything, but the thing is it's all a happy ending and it couldn't be better, and I loved it." Smith pitched one idea for Harold's return and he said that it would be interesting to revisit the character once more. A few months later it was revealed that Harold comes back to Erinsborough after receiving a call for help from Toadfish Rebecchi
Toadfish Rebecchi
Jarrod Vincenzo Rebecchi is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Ryan Moloney. He debuted on-screen during the episode airing on 8 February 1995....
. Not all of Harold's help is "received as graciously as it's given" and Harold's new relationship with Carolyn (Paula Duncan
Paula Duncan
Paula Margaret Duncan is an Australian actress. She is prominent mainly in the genre of soap opera. Her sister is fellow soap actress Carmen Duncan....
) is not welcomed by some of the neighbours. Smith told Inside Soap that when the producers asked him if there was a particular storyline he would like to play to play, he suggested that Harold should get married and so he returns engaged. Harold's news is not well received by his best friend.
Backstory
Harold was born in Brisbane. He met Madge Ramsay at high school and they began dating, despite Harold's rival, Lou Carpenter, trying to steal Madge away. Lou gives Harold the nickname "Jelly Belly". Harold loses Madge when she marries Fred Mitchell (Nick Waters) and moves away. Harold becomes a stock and station agentStation agent
In many countries, the station agent is the person in charge of a railway station Variants of station agents can also work at other transit terminals such as airports, ferry terminals, etc....
and he later marries Mavis and they have two children, David
David Bishop (Neighbours)
David Bishop is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Kevin Harrington. He made his first on-screen appearance on 12 May 1988, arriving for his father's wedding. David, along with his wife and daughter, returned in 2003...
(Kevin Harrington) and Kerry
Kerry Bishop
Kerry Bishop is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Linda Hartley-Clark. She made her first on-screen appearance on 1 February 1989. Kerry is the only daughter of Mavis and Harold Bishop and sister to David Bishop. She gave birth to a daughter, Sky, and...
(Linda Hartley-Clark). Mavis dies and leaves Harold to cope with his teenage children alone. Harold enjoys a close relationship with David, but Kerry rebels against Harold's conservative ways and she leaves to travel the world. David later moves to Adelaide, leaving Harold alone.
1987–1991
Madge's daughter, CharleneCharlene Robinson
Charlene Edna Robinson is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours played by Kylie Minogue. She made her first on-screen appearance on 17 April 1986 when she came to join her mother Madge in Ramsay Street. Charlene was a tomboy and later worked as a Mechanic...
(Kylie Minogue
Kylie Minogue
Kylie Ann Minogue, OBE - often known simply as Kylie - is an Australian singer, recording artist, songwriter, and actress. After beginning her career as a child actress on Australian television, she achieved recognition through her role in the television soap opera Neighbours, before commencing...
), calls Harold and invites him to Erinsborough
Erinsborough
Erinsborough is the fictional suburb in which the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours is set. The show focuses on the domestic and professional lives of the people who live and work in the suburb...
to see Madge. Harold surprises Madge when he arrives on her doorstep and he is keen to rekindle their romance. Harold decides to settle in the area and he opens a health food shop and moves in with Nell Mangel
Nell Mangel
Eleanor "Nell" Worthington is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Vivean Gray. She made her first on-screen appearance on 29 April 1986. She was known almost exclusively to others as "Mrs Mangel". The character caused controversy among some of the...
(Vivean Gray
Vivean Gray
Vivean Gray is an English actress, who found her niche playing gossipy characters in Australian television series. In her early life, she lived in England but moved to Australia after she had trouble finding any acting opportunities...
), who secretly admires Harold as he is a churchgoer like she is. Harold proposes to Madge, but he calls off the wedding when Charlene wants to move in with Scott Robinson
Scott Robinson (Neighbours)
Scott James Robinson is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Jason Donovan. He made his first on-screen appearance on 18 March 1985, in the show's first episode. Scott was originally played by Darius Perkins until he was recast.-Casting:Darius...
(Jason Donovan
Jason Donovan
Jason Donovan is an Australian actor and singer. He initially achieved fame in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, before beginning a career in music in 1988. In the UK he has sold over 3 million records, and his début album Ten Good Reasons was one of the highest-selling albums of 1989...
) out of wedlock and Madge throws her ring in Lassiter's Lake. Harold takes over the Coffee Shop, when Daphne Clarke
Daphne Clarke
Daphne Rose Clarke is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Elaine Smith. She made her first on-screen appearance in the serial's first episode on 18 March 1985. Daphne a stripper hired for Des Clarke's bucks party and she moved in him. She and Des fell in love...
(Elaine Smith
Elaine Smith (actress)
Elaine Smith found fame as an actress on Australian television.She is best known for her role as Daphne Clarke in the soap opera Neighbours...
) goes on maternity leave. Daphne dies and Harold stays on as permanent manager, he also writes for the Erinsborough News.
Eileen Clarke (Myra De Groot
Myra De Groot
Myra De Groot was an English-born actress prominent on such Australian television series as The Sullivans, Prisoner and Neighbours. On Neighbours, De Groot played meddling street gossip Eileen Clarke....
) spreads rumours that Harold is a lady-killer and when Harold discovers that people are talking about him, he tries to leave town. Charlene tells Harold that she has not finished working on his brakes, but he does not listen and crashes his car. Harold breaks both arms and Madge realises that she loves Harold and they resume their engagement. Lou Carpenter arrives in town and declares his love for Madge, Harold punches him during a fight. Madge chooses Harold and they marry. Harold saves Des Clarke
Des Clarke (Neighbours)
Desmond Kingsley "Des" Clarke is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Paul Keane. He made his first on screen appearance on 18 March 1985, the show's first episode.-Stroylines:...
's (Paul Keane
Paul Keane
Paul Keane is an Australian actor well known for playing Des Clarke in the soap opera Neighbours. Other TV credits include Bliss and Flight Into Hell. He was trained at the National Institute of Dramatic Art, graduating in 1983....
) life and Des offers him a partnership in the Coffee Shop. Harold and Madge later buy Des out.
Kerry shows up and Harold is shocked to find out that she had had a child out of wedlock, but he is delighted to be a grandfather to, Sky
Sky Mangel
Sky Mangel is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Stephanie McIntosh. She made her first on-screen appearance on 1 February 1989, played by Miranda Fryer. McIntosh took over the role on 13 August 2003 when the character returned to the show...
(Miranda Fryer
Miranda Fryer
Miranda Fryer is an Australian actress who played the part of Sky Bishop/Mangel in the Australian soap opera Neighbours from 1989 to 1991.-External links:...
). Harold invites Kerry to move in with him and Madge. Harold is initially against Kerry's relationship with Joe Mangel
Joe Mangel
Walter Joseph "Joe" Mangel is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Mark Little. He debuted on-screen in the episode airing on 8 August 1988. Little later departed the serial and Joe left in 1991. In 2005 Little agreed to reprise the role as part...
(Mark Little
Mark Little (Australian actor)
Mark Little , is an Australian actor, television presenter and comedian, born in Brisbane, Queensland.-Career:Little appeared in a string of Australian films and TV series during the 1980s. He also performed his own comedy/performance in Melbourne's burgeoning comedy clubs throughout the eighties...
), but he sees how much Joe loves her and Sky and gives their relationship his blessing. Joe and Kerry marry and Joe's son, Toby
Toby Mangel
Toby Mangel is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Ben Geurens. He made his first on-screen appearance on 10 November 1988. Toby was originally played by Finn Greentree-Keane from 1988 until 1990...
(Finn Greentree-Keane) calls Harold "grandad". Harold and Madge win the lottery and take a trip around the world, they meet Eddie Buckingham
Eddie Buckingham
Edward "Eddie" Buckingham is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Bob La Castra. He made his first on-screen appearance on 2 April 1990. La Castra created the character for himself after he was told that casting him the soap would be difficult due to his ethnic...
(Bob La Castra
Bob La Castra
Bob La Castra or Robert La Castra was an a popular Australian children's television show presenter in the 1980s. Best known for his appearances on the children's show Wombat...
) in England and he comes home with them. Kerry is shot and killed by a duck hunter, which devastates Harold. He develops a stronger bond with Joe as a result. Harold suffers a heart attack when he discovers that Madge has invited Lou to stay. Harold and Madge decide to go on holiday. During a walk on a coastal path, Madge stops to talk to a painter and when she looks around, Harold is nowhere to be seen. Madge finds Harold's glasses at the edge of a cliff and his body is not found.
1996–2011
Five years later, it is revealed that Harold was swept out to sea and picked up by a trawler. He suffers from amnesia and calls himself Ted. He decides to work for the Salvation Army after they help him start a new life. Harold turns up in Ramsay Street to collect some boxes from Marlene KratzMarlene Kratz
Marlene Kratz is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Moya O'Sullivan. She made her first on-screen appearance on 5 July 1994 and remained in the show until 14 October 1997, when the character went on a three month cruise and never returned....
(Moya O'Sullivan). As Harold leaves, he bumps into Helen Daniels
Helen Daniels
Helen Daniels is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, portrayed by Anne Haddy. Following the death of Jim Robinson in 1993, she remained the only original character left in the series until her own death in 1997, making her the second longest-serving original character...
(Anne Haddy
Anne Haddy
Anne Haddy was an Australian film and television actress, best known for her role in the long-running soap opera, Neighbours.-Early and personal life:...
) who is shocked to see him. She tries to track him down and leaves her number for Harold at the Salvation Army shop. Harold calls Helen and comes to see her, but he becomes frustrated as he does not remember the things she tells him and leaves. Helen calls Madge, who had moved away, to tell her that Harold is alive and Madge flies to Erinsborough.
Paul McClain
Paul McClain is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Jansen Spencer. Paul made his first appearance on 4 November 1997. Paul departed on 11 December 2001...
(Jansen Spencer
Jansen Spencer
Jansen Spencer is an Australian actor best known for his part in the worldwide Australian Soap, Neighbours. Jansen Spencer played Paul McClain between the years of 1997 to 2001...
) and he and Madge foster him. They later foster Paul's friend, Tad Reeves
Tad Reeves
Wayne Terrance "Tadpole" Reeves is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Jonathon Dutton...
(Jonathon Dutton
Jonathon Dutton
Jonathon Dutton is an actor who started his career playing the role of Tad Reeves in the Australian soap opera Neighbours....
) too. Harold and Madge decided to take over the running of Grease Monkeys, but they later sell the business.
Madge is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given six months to live, which devastates Harold. Madge develops septicaemia and Karl Kennedy tells Harold that Madge only has a short time left. Madge dies in Harold's arms. Both Paul and Tad leave and Lou moves in. Rosie Hoyland (Maggie Millar
Maggie Millar
Maggie Millar is an Australian actress, best known for her TV appearances as Marie Winter in Prisoner, Elizabeth Bradley in The Sullivans and Rosie Hoyland in Neighbours.-External links:*...
) arrives and Harold and Lou become rivals for her love, but she tells Harold that she just wants to be friends. Harold then finds himself rejecting Valda Sheergold's (Joan Sydney
Joan Sydney
Joan Sydney is a British actress best known for her work on Australian television, with more than 40 years experience mainly in the genres of soap operas and television serials, but also appearing in mini-series and theatre productions, including "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof", "Talking Heads" and "Dirty...
) advances. Harold tries a dating agency and start dating Ruby Dwyer (Maureen Edwards
Maureen Edwards
Maureen Edwards is an Australian actress, who remains best known for her role as Matron Rosemary Prior in the television series A Country Practice....
), though she is just using him for money. Harold donates a kidney to Lou and when he is released from hospital, he discovers that his house has been burgled. He discovers that it was Ruby, but he tries to help her gambling problem and she later leaves to see her son.
Sky returns to see Harold and he shocked she is now a rebellious teenager with black and blue hair. Harold offers to tell her more about Kerry and he introduces her to Boyd Hoyland
Boyd Hoyland
Boyd Hoyland is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Kyal Marsh. He made his first on-screen appearance on 5 June 2002...
(Kyal Marsh
Kyal Marsh
Kyal Reese Marsh is an Australian actor. He was born in Clare, South Australia. He moved to Melbourne with his family when he was one year old.-Acting & modelling career:...
). David, his wife, Liljana
Liljana Bishop
Liljana "Lil" Bishop is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Marcella Russo. She made her first on-screen appearance on 9 October 2003...
(Marcella Russo
Marcella Russo
Marcella Russo is an Australian actress who is best known for playing Liljana Bishop in the Australian soap opera Neighbours from 2003 until 2005, when her character was killed off in the Neighbours plane crash....
) and their daughter, Serena
Serena Bishop
Serena Bishop is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Lara Sacher. She made her first on-screen appearance on 9 October 2003. Serena's storylines included kissing her cousin's boyfriend, being taken advantage of by a photographer and starting an incestuos...
(Lara Sacher
Lara Sacher
Lara Sacher is an Australian actress who played Serena Bishop on the Australian soap opera Neighbours from 2003 to 2005.- Biography :...
) also come to town. Harold is unhappy at David's behaviour, the way Liljana takes over his kitchen and how Serena is spoilt. Harold and David make up and Harold invites him to move in with him and Sky. Harold suffers a stroke and his personality changes. Harold becomes rude and selfish, he starts eating meat and drinking and he leaves the Salvation Army. Harold later recovers and goes back to normal. A fire sweeps through the Lassiter's Complex and burns the Coffee Shop to the ground. He sets up a temporary Coffee Shop at the Community Hall with Paul Robinson
Paul Robinson (Neighbours)
Paul Stewart Robinson is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, a long-running serial drama about social life in the fictional Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough. He is played by Stefan Dennis. Paul debuted in the serial's first episode in 1985 and appeared on a...
's (Stefan Dennis
Stefan Dennis
Stefan Dennis is an Australian actor, best known for playing the role of Paul Robinson in the soap opera, Neighbours, from its first episode in March 1985 to the present day...
) help. Harold goes into business with Lou and they open the General Store. Joe returns and stays with Harold.
Sky, David, Liljana and Serena are involved in a plane crash. Sky is found and days later David's body is recovered. Liljana and Serena are never found. Harold goes into denial and punches Joe, Sky tells him that she needs him and he snaps out of it. Harold blames Paul Robinson for David, Liljana and Serena's deaths and he strangles Paul from behind. Paul survives and Harold later confesses to Paul, who does not press charges. Harold leaves town for a little while and on his return, he discovers that Sky is pregnant. Harold has a brief romance with Loris Timmins (Kate Fitzpatrick
Kate Fitzpatrick
Kate Fitzpatrick is an Australian-based television, film and theatre actress.-Career:...
) and Sky gives birth to a daughter, Kerry (Claudine Henningsen). Sky moves away to be with Kerry's father and Harold throws himself into work at the General Store. He later decides to pack up and travel around the country. Harold meets Kate Newton (Briony Behets
Briony Behets
Briony Behets is a British-born actress who found fame acting in Australian soap operas of the 1970s.-Early life:...
) and they briefly stop over in Erinsborough, before leaving together.
Harold returns for Christmas and goes for a checkup. He is shocked when Karl tells him that he has prostate cancer and needs urgent treatment. Harold does not take the news well, but Karl eventually convinces him to fight. Harold has an operation and begins chemotherapy after speaking to Stephanie Scully. Harold later suffers a heart attack and Karl ignores his wishes not to be resuscitated. Harold's cancer goes into remission and he decides to go and be with Sky. He gives his home to the Salvation Army and says goodbye to Susan Kennedy
Susan Kennedy
Susan Kennedy , is a fictional character from the Australian Network Ten soap opera Neighbours, played by Jackie Woodburne. The character and her family were created by storyliners in an attempt to bring the show back to its roots. Susan made her first on-screen appearance on 3 October 1994 along...
(Jackie Woodburne
Jackie Woodburne
Jackie Woodburne is a Northern Irish-born Australian actress.-Personal life:Woodburne was born in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Her father was a member of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. She has two older siblings: John and Stephen. At age three she emigrated with her family to...
) when she sees him taking photos of Ramsay Street. The next day he says goodbye to everyone else and drives out of town. When he stops for tea, he discovers that Lou has been hiding in his camper van and they continue the journey together.
Two years later, Harold returns to Ramsay Street after receiving a call for help from Toadie, who is dealing with the news that Sonya Mitchell
Sonya Mitchell
Sonya Mitchell is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours, played by Eve Morey. She made her first on-screen appearance on 14 August 2009. Sonya was initially a recurring character, but Morey was promoted to regular cast member in July 2010...
(Eve Morey
Eve Morey
Eve Morey is an Australian actress best known for playing Sonya Mitchell in the soap opera Neighbours.-Career:Morey majored in drama and media studies, while undertaking a Bachelor of Arts Degree at Deakin University...
) is the mother of his adopted son, Callum
Callum Jones
Callum Jones is a fictional character from the Australian soap opera Neighbours played by child actor Morgan Baker. He made his first appearance on-screen on 9 June 2008. The character was introduced to the show following the decision to stop a storyline that saw Toadfish Rebecchi adopt a child...
(Morgan Baker
Morgan Baker
Morgan Baker is an Australian child actor. He has been playing Callum Jones on the soap opera Neighbours since June 2008.-Career:...
). Harold visits Sonya to get her side of the story and Harold tells Toadie that he should be a little more forgiving. Harold meets Troy Miller (Dieter Brummer
Dieter Brummer
Dieter Brummer is an Australian actor of German descent, probably best known for his role on the television soap opera Home and Away.-Career:...
), but fails to pass his number onto Toadie as he thinks he has enough to deal with. Harold takes a couple of secret calls and when he receives a text in front of Toadie, he reveals that he is in a relationship with a woman named Carolyn. He explains that she founded a tea company and when he enquired about it, they met and fell in love. Harold also reveals that he is engaged to Carolyn. Harold encourages Toadie to speak to Sonya, but Toadie tells him that he needs time. Harold then sees Sonya and Troy kissing and Sonya asks him not to tell Toadie. Carolyn arrives and she and Harold confront Troy together. Carolyn later suggests that she and Harold get married in Erinsborough. Lou returns to town and goes to see Harold, who tells him about Carolyn. Lou tells Harold that he thinks Carolyn is stuck up and he tries to organise a buck's night. Carolyn is against the idea, so Harold gets them to compromise on a joint party at Charlie's. Troy comes along and when he and Harold get some drinks, Troy physically threatens him. Harold tells Toadie about Troy.
On his wedding day, Harold goes to visit Madge's grave and is late for the ceremony. Following his arrival, he and Carolyn get married. Harold and Carolyn return for their honeymoon and try to tell Lou that he has taken on too much at the car yard and that he needs to slow down, but Lou does not listen to them and he later collapses. Harold and Carolyn go to the hospital and Harold tells Lou to start taking his health seriously. He is pleased when Lou announces his intentions to sell the car yard. Harold and Carolyn begin packing the van, so they can leave, when Callum asks them to get Sonya to move back in with him and Toadie. Harold speaks with Toadie and tries to convince him that Sonya should move back in. Toadie likes the sound of the idea, but thinks it is too soon. Harold and Carolyn are sorry they could not convince Sonya and Toadie to move in together. After saying goodbye to Lou, Harold and Carolyn are delighted when Toadie and Sonya reveal that they are moving back in together. Toadie thanks Harold for everything that he has done and Harold and Carolyn leave.
Reception
Smith has earned various award nominations for his role as Harold. At the 2007 Inside Soap AwardsInside Soap Awards
The Inside Soap Awards is a yearly award ceremony run by Inside Soap magazine since 1996. The awards celebrate the British and Australian soap operas and their actors. Until 2007, EastEnders had won the award for "Best Soap" on every occasion...
, he was nominated for "Funniest Performance". The following year saw Smith nominated for "Funniest Performance" again and "Best Actor". In 2009, Smith was once again nominted for "Funniest Performance" and "Best Storyline" for Harold's cancer. That same year he was nominated for the "Most Popular Personality
Gold Logie Award for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television
The Gold Logie Award has been awarded annually to the Most Popular Personality on Australian Television at the TV Week Logie Awards since 1960...
" and "Most Popular Actor" Logie Award
Logie Award
The TV Week Logie Awards are the Australian television industry awards, which have been presented annually since 1959. Renamed by Graham Kennedy in 1960 after he won the first 'Star Of The Year' award, the name 'Logie' awards honours John Logie Baird, a Scotsman who invented the television as a...
s.
Television critic Charlie Brooker
Charlie Brooker
Charlton "Charlie" Brooker is a British journalist, comic writer and broadcaster. His style of humour is savage and profane, with surreal elements and a consistent satirical pessimism...
praised the character of Harold in 2005, saying "Thank God then, for Harold Bishop, who looks precisely the same as he always did – just slightly more so. His is probably the friendliest face on television – a cross between 10 Toytown mayors and a baby". Virgin Media included Harold in their top ten favourite soap characters poll in 2007. They also express that he's become "one of the most popular Ramsey Street residents." After listing his many storylines, Paul Kalina of The Age
The Age
The Age is a daily broadsheet newspaper, which has been published in Melbourne, Australia since 1854. Owned and published by Fairfax Media, The Age primarily serves Victoria, but is also available for purchase in Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and border regions of South Australia and...
asked whether there were any plot devices left for the writers to give Harold. He went on to say that Harold's 2008 exit was "a criminally low-key send-off for Neighbours most colourful and longest-standing cast member. For the best part of two decades, Harold was the moral compass of Ramsay Street, a paragon of the decent-in-a-sliced-white-bread-kind-of-way and nostalgic ideals that distinguishes the squeaky clean Neighbours from a legion of more temperate television soaps. Kalina added that the writers had "better be working up something damned good for when Harold returns."
Ruth Deller of entertainment website Lowculture
Lowculture
lowculture.co.uk is a UK television website founded in January 2003 by Paul Lang, who currently works as the art director of Doctor Who Adventures.-Purpose:...
expressed her sadness over Harold's cancer storyline saying, "Poor Jellybelly. There might have been a little bit of tear-shedding this week at his cancer diagnosis and trip to Madge's grave. We love you Hazza! The current web campaigns to get Ian Smith a golden logie after 20 years on Neighbours also have our support, in a very nominal kind of way." Of his 2009 departure, Deller said "Actor Ian Smith is retiring, which is the kind of behaviour we expect from normal people, not soap stars. He and his wife are going to be 'grey nomads' – the term for Australians who spend their retirement travelling the country in trailer homes. And in a case of art imitating life, that's exactly what Hazza will be doing. [..] To be fair, although I'm sad to see old Jelly Belly depart, it's a nice way to go: much better than him having a second screen death, or moving to live with the whiny Sky. Considering that Harold has had one of the most tragic lives of any Ramsay Street resident (two dead wives, two dead children, a dead grandchild, a dead daughter in law, being missing presumed dead for several years, watching Sky turn from fierce funky teen to moaning nymphomaniac, becoming insane and murderous, being conned by a variety of unscrupulous women and so on), giving him a happy ending is even sweeter." Sarah Megginson of SheKnows placed Harold's departure on her "8 Most Memorable Neighbours Moments".
In 2010, to celebrate Neighbours 25th anniversary, British Sky Broadcasting
British Sky Broadcasting
British Sky Broadcasting Group plc is a satellite broadcasting, broadband and telephony services company headquartered in London, United Kingdom, with operations in the United Kingdom and the Ireland....
profiled twenty-five characters of which they believed were the most memorable in the series' history. Harold was included in the list and they describe him as having no luck in life, they added "Harold Bishop is proof that bad things happen to good people. Harold made Helen Daniels look like a manipulative harpy, and yet the universe still conspired to sweep him out to sea, give him amnesia for several years, and to give his wife Madge terminal cancer. This is all tear-jerking stuff, but the death of his son David's family in a plane crash and Harold subsequently putting a brave face on the situation turned the end of three unloved characters into one of the soap's saddest storylines in years."
External links
- Character profile at the Official AU Neighbours website