Ulrika Jonsson ‘seething’ as ‘sleazy’ Gregg Wallace doubles down amid BBC probe

After MasterChef host Gregg Wallace repeatedly made “crude and sleazy” remarks to women over the years, Ulrika Jonsson was left “seething.”

The 60-year-old has been accused of inappropriate behavior for the entire 17-year period when the BBC’s internal investigation led to the MasterChef presenter resigning from the program. Wallace made a clear attempt to clear his name on Instagram despite strongly refuting the allegations in a statement released by his legal representatives.

However, Wallace is now facing new controversy for trying to explain the situation with yet more sexism because he claims his accusers are “middle class women of a certain age” in his video rant. Taking to Instagram, he ranted: “Now I’ve been doing MasterChef for 20 years.

” Amateur, Celebrity and Professional MasterChef. Over 4, 000 contestants of all different ages, backgrounds, and stages of life have come to me during that time. There have been 13 complaints in that span, according to what I’m reading in the paper right now.

Gregg doubled-down on his misogynistic views (Instagram)
Ulrika was left 'seething' after seeing Gregg's video
Ulrika was left ‘ seething ‘ after seeing Gregg’s video (WireImage)

“I can see them coming from a select few middle-class women of a certain age straight out of Celebrity MasterChef,” she said. This isn’t right. Can you imagine how many women on MasterChef have sex remarks or sexual innuendo over the course of 20 years of television?

Ulrika Jonsson, who has previously slammed Wallace for making a vile rape joke to a “distressed” MasterChef contestant, has commented again, admitting she is “seething”. The Swedish-born former model fumed to The Sun: “Somewhere in his misogynistic, thoughtless, ancient mind he felt it appropriate to tell the world this. Oh, Gregg. Your obnoxiness and arrogance are unmatched. Firstly, you are unaware of what “class” of women have complained about you.

She added that his reference to “women of a certain age” is ironic because Generation X have been subjected to “sexist, misogynistic, crude and sleazy ­comments and physical contact” from a young age, throughout their “working lives”.

Ulrika also told The Telegraph about how she felt when she saw the video, explaining: “My first reaction was just, ‘ Keep digging, Gregg. Keep digging “because this demonstrates the haughtiness of a man without any self-awareness or introspection.” She added that the former host was unable to “read the room.”

Ulrika, who claimed he told a “really distressed” contestant that her “dish looks like a rapist during foreplay”, added that the BBC need to take accountability. She claimed that “despite the BBC’s criticism of this cheeky chappy because of his simplicity, it is simply not good enough to ignore any complaints with the justification that “it’s just how Gregg is””.

Kirstie Allsop, Kirsty Wark, Sir Rod Stewart, and Charlotte Crosby from Geordie Shore are just a few of the celebrities who have spoken out about Gregg. It is entirely false that Wallace exhibits sexually harassing behavior, according to Wallace’s attorneys. Additionally, the BBC said in a statement that “we take any issues that are brought up with us seriously and have effective solutions.” We are always making it clear that any behavior that does not meet the standards set by the BBC will be tolerated.

When an individual is employed by an external production company, we communicate any grievances or concerns to that organization and will always assist them when they are contacted. We wouldn’t be able to make any comments on anything that might affect or be related to Banijay’s ongoing investigation.

Follow Mirror Celebs on Threads, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok.

Pete Wicks shares true feelings for Strictly’s Jowita hours before Maura’s I’m A Celeb confession

Just before Maura Higgins revealed everything about their relationship on television, Pete Wicks gushed praise to Jowita Przystal, the star of his Strictly Come Dancing partner.

With the exception of a few reports of them being seen on dates in the capital, former Love Islander Maura, 34, and ex-Towie star Pete, 36, have kept their relationship a secret for the past few months. However, on last night’s i’m A Celeb, Maura let the cat out the bag as she revealed she was seeing ‘ someone special. ‘

Fans have been asking if Pete has been seeing Maura or Jowita, who he appears to have shared a close relationship with, in recent weeks. On Sunday night’s BBC results show, the pair were saved by the audience by wrapping their arms around one another.

Minutes later, Pete took to social media to pay a gushing tribute to his dance partner, he penned: “I’ve been struggling to think of what to say and it’s not often I’m lost for words.

Maura said she’s been dating someone special on last night’s I’m A Celebrity (Tik Tok)
Pete Wicks paid a gushing tribute to Jowita after being saved by the public
After being saved by the public (PA), Pete Wicks hailed Jowita in a gizmo.

I never anticipated it or taken anything for granted because I have been so overwhelmed and blessed with your support over the past three months. You guys have a wonderful faith in me, and at times I’m not sure if it was due to me. No amount of words, aside from saying it before, can ever be used to repay the money you’ve given me. People talk about the “journey” and let me tell you, this isn’t my journey at all. It’s our journey. Jowita, you and I have all been on this wild ride and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

“I literally have no idea how I’m going to get through this week,” I can assure you that I’ll give it my all. Thank you”, he finished alongside a love heart emoji.

During a conversation with Reverend Richard Coles, Maura Higgins set the tone for her relationship status a few hours later.

Maura said she wasn't sure if she's ever been in love in a candid chat
Maura said she wasn’t sure if she’s ever been in love in a candid chat (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The Love Island icon has been surviving in the Australian jungle with campmates Danny Jones, GK Barry, Oti Mabuse, Coleen Rooney and more. During the recent episode of the ITV show, Dean, Maura and a few others started chatting about past and current relationships.

Despite months of speculation that she may be dating Strictly actor Pete Wicks, Maura has always denied the existence of a single status. Around the campfire, Dean shared his current relationship status, as he said: “I’ve been seeing someone since July, but we’re not boyfriends, we’re just dating. Before I entered, I texted him, “I adore you. “

He continued: “He fills me with so much joy because he’s just a vibe”. Oti then asked Maura whether she’s single, to which the reality star answered: “I am but I was seeing someone before I came in but I’m not in a relationship”. After apologizing for putting her on the spot, Reverend Richard inquired as to whether it was “exclusive.”

Maura paused, and looked pensive, as she said: “I dunno”. Dean asked her: “Is it someone we would know”? with Maura looking sly before saying: “Yeah..”. She admitted she missed him when Dean questioned whether she had missed him while he was in the jungle. However, Maura thinks she has never been in love.

Pete Wicks and Jowita
In the semi-final (BBC), Pete and Jowita are guaranteed a spot.

Dean said, “I know that feeling, looking for his late partner David in a crowd and feeling his heart go,” as Richard did when he said. Richard offered: “I think you’ll know when it happens, it’s just different”. Dean asked Maura whether it ‘ felt different ‘ this time, and she said: “It does, but then is it because we’ve known each other for a long time”?

Richard said: “You’d know if he was an a**hole or not, by now”, and Maura answered: “Yeah, he’s not an a**hole”. Maura told her campmates she had never been in love. But when quizzed about her views on relationships, the Irish bombshell said she’s happy on her own. Maura’s best friend, Danika O’Connor, recently opened up about Maura’s relationship with Pete, claiming the two are simply just ‘ really good friends’.

She said to OK! : “They’re just really good friends. Maura and she both supported him on Strictly, and Pete is now supporting her in the jungle. It merely demonstrates her friendship. She’ll be a good friend no matter what”.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

‘After 10 years hunting Cyber Monday deals here are my 2024 picks from ghd, Shark and more’

After a decade of scouring Cyber Monday sales, I’ve discovered the deals that are worthwhile to add to your carts. I’ve seen it all—tempting discounts on stuff nobody really needs, a few too-good-to-be-true offers that turned out to be just that, and, of course, the holy grail deals that really do save you money on your Christmas shopping.

This year, I’ve combed through the chaos to bring you my top picks from some of the biggest and best brands out there—think Dyson, Samsung, Ninja, Shark and ghd, just to name a few. Whether you’re after slick tech upgrades, life-changing beauty tools, or that vacuum everyone secretly wants, I’ve got you covered.

So grab your cup of coffee and let’s dive in…

Missoma – 40% off

Hailey Bieber is a fan of the brand (Missoma)

Loved by Kate Middleton, Maya Jama, Hailey Bieber and many more, Missoma has cemented itself in the celeb world. Additionally, their Cyber Monday sale offers up to 40% off some of its most popular pieces.

Our top picks include:

Beaverbrooks – up to 50% off

Searching for the perfect timepiece? Thanks to Beaverbrook’s sale , shoppers have the chance to snag a designer watch at a significant discount. This best-selling style from Gucci has been reduced from £1040 to £558 here – that’s a mega saving of £482.

Shark Beauty – 25% off

Person using a Shark hair tool
Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styler &amp, Hair Dryer with Storage Case (Shark)

Shark’s popular Dyson alternative, the FlexStyle, is now under £200 in a ‘ Cyber Monday deal too good to miss ‘ If you’ve had your eye on a Shark FlexStyle for a while, then now’s the time to shop, as it now has 25% off.

Designed to dry, straighten, curl and volumise your hair in one handy tool, this clever ‘ build your own ‘ multi-purpose styler usually costs £269.99, but is currently slashed to £199.99 on the Shark website as part of the tech giant’s huge extended Black Friday sale, giving shoppers a rarely-seen saving of £70.

Boden – 40% off

The British brand is offering 40% off on some styles during “not so Cyber Monday.” From its colourful new season collection, with unmissable discounts across both women’s and childrenswear. Our style editor’s best picks include…

Oral-B – up to 68% off

Dentals have reduced Oral-B‘s electric toothbrush by 68%. Don’t sleep on this must-have offer, the renowned Oral-B has had the price knocked down on its dentist-approved toothbrush that’s designed for sensitivity, gum health and top-tier dental hygiene. The price has been slashed from £159.99 to £49.95.

Samsung TVs- up to 38% off

55” Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen, UHD, Mini LED 165Hz Smart Gaming Monitor
Samsung’s mega Black Friday sale can save tech shoppers £900 on 55-inch monitor (Samsung)

Amazon has a 43-inch Samsung Q60D 4K TV for less than £400, making it easy to get a stunning 4K TV just in time for the holiday season. It’s a steal at £369.99 during the massive online retailer’s sale, chopping a hefty 37% off its initial price.

Samsung, known for its high-end TVs, has put out an offer you can’t ignore – the Q60D is up for grabs at an incredible price. This telly doesn’t skimp on quality, it’s packed with QLED tech that amplifies brightness and transforms light into stunning, realistic colours.

Apple AirPod Pros – 22% off

When we do notice Apple products being reduced, it’s worth shouting about because they are so rarely discounted, even during major sales events like this one. If you (or someone you know) loves Apple products, these are guaranteed to delight.

Our beauty and wellness editor Laura Mulley says, “I switched from the regular AirPods to the Pros earlier this year, and now there is no going back.” “They fit in the ear much better, the sound quality is incredible, and the noise cancelling function is a game changer, they’re a must for running or travelling“.

ghd – up to 30% off

ghd's Curve Classic Wave Wand has been reduced in the brand's Black Friday sale alongside a whole host of other curling products
In the brand’s Black Friday sale, a number of other curling products (ghd) have been discounted, including the Curve Classic Wave Wand.

One of the lowest prices we’ve ever seen the limited edition Ghd Glide Smoothing Hot Brush in Champagne Gold is currently down to just £125.30 on the Debenhams website. This unique gold-and-red colorway makes a great gift, and it will look especially glam on your dressing table, in our opinion.

You can also visit GHD’s website, where a 30% off sale is taking place on almost all items.

Dyson Beauty – 25% off

If you’ve been waiting to see if the Dyson Airwrap will be reduced in the Cyber Monday sales today, then you’re in luck, as it has £80 taken off it across a number of retailers, including Boots, John Lewis and Dyson’s own website, it’s the cheapest you’re going to get one, unless you look at refurbished models.

Do you want to know whether it’s worthwhile to spend money on? Read our entire review here.

UGG – up to 50% off

UGG drop new styles into Black Friday sale - including classic 'sturdy' boot
UGG introduces new styles during its Black Friday sale, including the well-known “strong” boot (UGG).

Under $100 in the Cyber Monday sale can now be found for under $100 in Ugg boots that “feel like walking on air.” You won’t want to miss this Black Friday deal for those looking to save money on the renowned Ugg Classic Mini Boots in the run-up to the winter. Their sales have fallen below £100, outperforming those of other retailers.

Please note that these black Ugg boots are selling quickly and that some sizes have already sold out. So grab yours before this Cyber Monday offer is gone.

Naked Attraction’s Anna Richardson opens up on ‘painful’ Sue Perkins split

TV’s straight-talking Anna Richardson isn’t one for mincing her words, and she’s not about to start now. “Just because I’m a certain age, doesn’t mean I suddenly want to wear a twin-set and pearls”, the 54 year old chuckles during our video chat. “Absolutely bloody not”. Known for hosting the risqué dating show Naked Attraction, as well as Supersize vs Superskinny, The Sex Education Show, and Secret Eaters, Anna has recently been delving into more personal ventures. Her documentary Love, Loss and Dementia sought to raise awareness of her father Jim’s battle with vascular dementia.

“It’s probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done”, she admits. “The process of filming is stressful enough, but coupled with a parent suffering from dementia… it’s just heartbreaking”. Post her high-profile breakup with Bake Off star Sue Perkins nearly two years ago, reports OK!, Anna is candid about navigating life post-heartbreak, tackling menopause, and whether she’d ever consider stepping into a Naked Attraction pod herself…

Anna shared her thoughts on the menopause.
Sue Perkins and Anna Richardson smiling
About two years ago, Anna and Sue split (PA).

Hi, Anna! What has your experience been like since you’ve previously spoken about menopause?

I personally found the navigation to be very challenging, but I also found the early stages of my pregnancy challenging. There is the notion that if you had PMS, you might have had a menopause as well, because hormone sensitivity fluctuates in the end. I had more psychological and mental health symptoms than physical ones. I got a lot of brain fog, and suffered from anxiety and depression. Finding the ideal balance was important to me. I’m on HRT now but it wasn’t an easy journey. Other than seeing a therapist frequently and taking supplements, I rely on a lot of other things. I take vitamin D, collagen powder and ashwagandha.

You also went through a rather public split a few years ago, didn’t you?

I did, but the fantastic news is that Sue]Perkins] and I are really close – we are still excellent friends. We see each other all the time — in fact, I’m going to be seeing her after this interview. It was very painful at the time, but now we’re friends, and it just goes to show that love can metamorphose, and it can endure. I initially struggled to get past it, but I eventually made the very clear decision to be happy in a relationship. I’m made to be with someone else, not just one of those who does well on their own. I told all of my friends that I was ready to meet someone, whether they were single or not, because I was miserable as hell for about a year.

Did you eventually meet someone after that?

I met a lovely man, and we’ve been dating ever since. I only wanted a generous person who would prioritize me. I know a friend of mine who is going through a divorce, but I believe we would make a great couple because they both said, “I know someone who is going through a divorce but I think he’s ready to meet someone.”

Anna Richardson on naked attraction
The star said she’s proud of her career achievements (Channel 4 / Nicky Johnston)

You’ve got a lot of career accolades under your belt — do you ever still get ‘ pinch-me ‘ moments?

I think it’s so important that you asked that question. The other week, I sat and wrote down what I’d achieved over my career. Yes, I’ve been on telly for 30 years – but what have I actually achieved? I was overwhelmed when I finished the list, and I have a lot to proud of. Naked Attraction is unquestionably a top attraction. It has a cult following on one hand, but there is a bigger message underneath, which is why I was initially interested in doing it. It’s about acceptance and self-acceptance. I also did a documentary with my father, which I did. As women, we’re not very good at owning our achievements, but I got a real dopamine hit from writing them down.

What was it like to film the documentary you mentioned with your father?

For me, it was a challenging but personal journey. In a way, it’s a love letter to my dad. We don’t communicate our love to one another well, and we don’t communicate that we are emotionally strong. You’re important to me, as I put it in this way. I’ve never before received such a positive response from the audience about a performance. In order to influence legislation affecting dementia care, I’ve been lobbying in parliament.

Would you ever participate in Naked Attraction on your own? We must ask.

No, I wouldn’t]laughs]! It’s a cop-out for me to say I’m in a very happy relationship but, truthfully, I know too much about what goes on. What does “fashion” mean to you, and it involves a lot of bodily fluids? Fashion is your identity, it is your personality, it is the face that you’re showing to the world. It may reflect your subconscious mind in real life. Inhabit your ‘ inner queen age ‘ and just express yourself.

Anna Richardson wears pink blazer
Anna stated in Chapter 4 that she is concentrating on “her value.”

Could you share more about your newest collaboration with JD Williams with us?

I’m 54 years old, and many other brands I’ve seen seem to be focusing on the “skinny, youthful, and beautiful” aesthetic or really put an emphasis on trends. I found myself not being represented but with JD Williams, I feel included. When you hit this age, women are at the peak of their lives, in terms of families, careers and spending power — we know what we want and don’t want. We’re a very powerful group, but 73% of my age group felt irritated that society deemed that we should be starting to dress more age appropriately, which is so wrong.

Have you ever struggled with your body confidence?

I’ve hosted a lot of diet shows, as well as two diet books. I’ve personally gone on a million diets, and I’ve seen an increase in weight. Everything changes when you hit menopause, too. Never the slimmest girl in the class, even when I was in school. I’m not built in that way, but I’m really pleased to see how society is evolving. Now that we’re in 2024, we actually celebrate that our bodies are different. We love that this collection looks at self-prioritisation.

Do you now feel more leisure time than ever?

You’ve got to remember I never had children. Although I’m now in my fifties, I didn’t spend much of my 20s or 30s raising children and remember many of my other friends’ hard work as mothers. I had my career and my kids to balance, which they had to do a lot. I could go on about putting myself first for many years. But I think society doesn’t value midlife women, so I’m focusing on my value in the world.

You definitely possess value, I assure you.

Thank you, and I do think there’s a lot of judgement on women who haven’t had children, for whatever reason. Truthfully, by the time I sort of thought about it, it was difficult for me to have kids. I’ve just been absolutely passionate about my career and my voice, but you’re right. There’s no point in comparing things.

Is there anything in life you would like to try that you haven’t already?

I’m still incredibly interested in becoming a parent. I want to be a mother, but I’m still thinking about adopting or fostering. If I could make a difference to a child in some way… well, that’s something I’m still pondering over.

For their Midlife Rede ned initiative, Anna Richardson and Kelle Bryan have collaborated with JD Williams to address the unique difficulties and opportunities that women face in their midlifes. To launch the campaign, the duo helped curate a Partywear Edit which has been styled by brand ambassador, Gok Wan. JD Williams is dedicated to creating clothing in sizes 8 through 32 that can accommodate midlife women’s constantly-changing silhouettes.

Vanessa Feltz gives update on love life as she searches for ‘Prince Charming’

As the year progresses since her tragic split, Vanessa Feltz is getting ready for a potential romance. The beloved presenter had her world rocked over Christmas in 2022 when she discovered that her partner of 16 years, Ben Ofoedu of Phats and Small, was unfaithful. And now, she’s hoping for a fairytale ending.

During a conversation with OK! about her romantic life at the launch of Winter Wonderland in London, Vanessa, 62, was quite clear about her festive wishes: “I’d like my Prince Charming to be under the tree, really”, she admitted with a twinkle in her eye. The Celebs Go Dating star, who revealed his infidelity after breaking up with 52-year-old Ben, has not reacted to her feelings. She described her feelings as “sad, disappointed, and shocked.”

Vanessa Feltz at the 2024 chain of hope gala ball
Vanessa acknowledged that this year’s “prince charming” will be under the tree (Getty Images).
She split from ex fiancé Ben Ofoedu over Christmas in 2022 (Getty Images for Orion Books)

Vanessa explained in a revealing interview that she hasn’t seen Ben since he admitted to texting other women, which led her to switch the locks on their once-shared plush £3.5 million London pad.

Vanessa expresses a fierce determination to enjoy the holiday cheer and concentrate on her family, which is truly important, despite the betrayal. Her daughters Allegra, 38, and Saskia, 35, whom she had with former husband orthopaedic surgeon Michael Kurer, have been pillars of support for Vanessa as she navigates single life.

This Morning star Vanessa, who is adored by her four young grandchildren as “Grandma Vanessa,” is gearing up for a festive family holiday in Ireland. She is a regular on the small screen and is adored as “Grandma Vanessa.” She excitedly shared: “This year, we will be in Ireland for Christmas with all the family – we all have matching Christmas pyjamas, presents, turkey, the lot”! At London’s Winter Wonderland press night, Vanessa expressed her eagerness for quality family time by saying, “I’m really looking forward to some family time – all of us together.

Meanwhile, on her YouTube channel, Vanessa recently dished out what turns her head regarding men after I’m A Celeb’s Tulisa Contostavlos confessed she’s demisexual. While discussing sexual attraction with expert Annabelle Knight, Vanessa mused: “In general, you walk into a pub, a nightclub, the underground station, any place. You look around at the people near you and, to some – often not many – but to some of them, sometimes, you feel a kind of attraction. It’s that, ‘ Well, I don’t fancy him, I don’t fancy her, I don’t fancy him, but I like the look of him. ‘”

Vanessa Feltz at winter wonderland 2024 with her family
Vanessa will be spending Christmas with her daughters, Saskia (pictured with her) and Allegra (Dave Benett/Getty Images for Hyd)
Vanessa Feltz and her grandkids
As a doting grandmother, she can’t wait for some family time over the festive period

She expanded on the allure quipping, “There’s something about the pheromones, or the smell, or the cut of his arse or the cut of his jib, or just something about the big brown eyes or the leather jacket that floats your boat, that gets you interested, that ignites that sexual spark. In general, you can’t avoid it when it happens”.

Vanessa hasn’t found anyone catching her eye lately, but her ex-beau Ben swiftly moved on post-breakup. At the end of 2023, Ben was caught lying to Vanessa while his band was touring the country and making film and reality stars.

In March of this year, Ben even made hints about having children with Precious, a 40-year-old woman, and what appeared to be a dig at Vanessa. They officially signed on Instagram. Come this month, however, the musician disclosed their breakup to a newspaper, citing hectic timetables as the reason for their parting ways: “I could always see a future with Precious because we connect so well, laugh so much and enjoy one another”, he stated.

However, we’ve decided to end our relationship romantically but keep our friendship alive because our lives are so hectic and life is moving so quickly.

Despite Ben being back on the market, it seems a revival with Vanessa is unlikely. She revealed that she dislikes dating wannabes and has previously revealed that she dislikes dating aspiring stars.

Some simply want to drag your coat tails up a red carpet with them. And I’ve really just about had enough of being somebody’s access-all-areas lanyard”. Vanessa shared her hopes for romance, saying: “I hope that one day, Cupid will tap me on the shoulder, and I will find true love again. I would like to be able to say to a man, ‘ I love you. ‘ I really miss that”.

Neighbours legend Ian Smith reveals cancer diagnosis: ‘They expect me to die’

Ian Smith, the long-running Neighbours star, has been given a terminal cancer diagnosis.

The actor, 86, who is best known for playing Harold Bishop, recently announced his exit from the Australian-based soap opera. Ian has shared that he was diagnosed earlier this year.

Ian has said that he has a “very aggressive” form of cancer, telling 10 News First recently: “I found out a few months back that I have cancer. They expect me to die because I have a very aggressive non-fixable cancer, and they expect it.

The outlet adds that Ian has lung cancer and that he and his colleagues from Neighbours discussed it before he left the soap opera, with him claiming that the news caused him “tears.” Ian – whose wife Gail Smith passed away in 2019 following her own cancer diagnosis – said that the news of his diagnosis “knocked]him] out a bit”, adding that it’s made him “rethink” his outlook on life.

Ian has been a long-running cast member on Neighbours, having made his debut in 1987 – just two years after the show launched. Up until his first break from the soap opera in 1991, he first appeared as Harold.

From 1996 to 2009, he later made his regular cast appearance. The actor has appeared in numerous guest films since then, including the “finale” in 2022, which was regarded as Neighbours’ final film.

Ian Smith, the star of Neighbours, has revealed that he has cancer (X).

However, Amazon Freevee later revived the program, and it made a comeback last year. Although a number of well-known cast members reprised their roles, Ian didn’t initially appear in the new series of the beloved soap.

However, it was made known earlier this year that he would be reprising his role as Harold, who would be relocating to Erinsborough, a fictional suburb. The legendary Harold Bishop is relocating to Erinsborough, according to a message that the program shared on social media in April. We are thrilled to return Ian Smith to the show and his new titles. Harold’s on-screen return aired the following month.

However, Ian has since stopped hosting the program after being recently diagnosed with cancer. Reflecting on his departure, he told 10 News First in an interview that has aired this week: “It isn’t just my last day at Neighbours – it’s my last day of work”.

Announcing his departure, a statement issued by Neighbours reads: “Harold waves goodbye to Ramsay Street. We’re breaking the sad news that beloved Harold Bishop will soon be leaving Ian Smith. Harold was first portrayed by Ian in 1987, and it has been a great honor to bring him back to the show.

Jason Herbison, Executive Producer, said: “The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn’t love him more than we do. He wanted to give Harold a proper welcome despite the difficulties he was having with his health. We paid tribute to him and the incredible contribution he has made to the show on set, which was a very emotional moment.

Anne Charleston, who portrayed Harold’s late wife Madge Bishop, will appear alongside Ian for “some of his final scenes,” it has been announced. The statement made the comment that “the circumstances in which Anne will appear have yet to be determined, but the reunion of the legendary couple will be a last treat for fans.”

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.