We all love good Neighbours and there is no one kinder and more beloved than Madge and Harold Bishop.
Woman’s Day caught up with Ian Smith and Anne Charleston, who both reminisce about their 46-year friendship.
Sex scandals, depression, financial nightmares, fraud: The Neighbours stars have lived through it all and have still maintained their sense of humour.
True to form, there were laughs galore, warm hugs and outrageous stories flying when the actors, who became household names on the Ten soap, got together for our delightful photo shoot.
“We first met on the set of Bellbird in 1971 and – sharing many mutual friends – we often ran into one another at dinner parties,” Ian, 79, who is nothing like his stuffy TV alter ego Harold, revealed.
While Anne, 74, added, “We sort of stalked each other’s careers for years.”
But it was playing Harold and Madge that turned the busy stage and screen veterans into Ramsay Street royalty in more than 60 countries around the world.
Anne joined Neighbours in 1986 as Madge Mitchell – mother of Charlene (Kylie Minogue), with Ian coming on board a year later.
“It was great to finally be working so closely together, and we instantly gelled,” Ian remarked.
While Ian and Anne have both gone through heartwrenching times, which they talk about in this week’s issue, the pair have always been dear friends.
Keep scrolling for the stunning snaps from the Anne and Ian’s photo shoot and to read their full interview, be sure to pick up a copy of Woman’s Day magazine, on stands now!
Harold & Madge back together!
Ian Smith and Anne Charleston reminisce about their 46-year friendship.
Fans will always treasure when Harold married his high school sweetheart.
Anne and Ian apparently even played brother and sister on one TV show – “but neither of us can remember!”
It was playing Harold and Madge that made the actors household names.
Aren’t they sweet!
Madge and Harold are married
Nothing has changed!
“It was so comfortable, which often isn’t the case. My wife Gail and I adore Anne,” Ian tells us.
“She’s incredibly kind, always helping those in need.”
Anne joined Neighbours in 1986 as Madge Mitchell, mother of Charlene played by Kylie Minogue.
Ian came on board a year later.
“It was great to finally be working so closely together, and we instantly gelled,” Ian says.
Harold gives Madge’s eulogy
Cheers to the sweet duo! Be sure to pick up a copy of Woman’s Day for their full exclusive chat!
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