Aussie Actor And Singer Johnny Ruffo Has Died, Aged 35
Aussie singer and actor Johnny Ruffo has died aged 35. The star, who shot to fame on The X Factor, lost his battle with terminal brain cancer on Friday afternoon.
The devastating news was shared in a statement on Johnny’s personal Instagram account.
“It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny. Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny went peacefully with the support of some incredible nurses and doctors.”
“He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and had a strong will. He battled all the way to the end and fought as hard as he could. Such a beautiful soul with so much more to give.”
“We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives. Rest easy.”
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Johnny Ruffo’s battle with cancer.
The former Home and Away star first shared his cancer diagnosis in 2017, revealing that he had a brain tumour. After undergoing surgery to remove the tumour and further treatment, the singer announced that he was cancer-free in 2019.
Sadly, in 2020, he told fans that his cancer had returned, but he was determined to fight the “huge battle”.
In August 2022, Johnny sat down for an incredibly emotional interview on The Project. He told then-host Carrie Bickmore that his cancer was terminal, yet somehow continued to have a positive outlook.
“At some point it will get me, but I’m still fighting, still kicking on,” he told her. “Looking up my diagnosis and my tumour, the average life expectancy was three years. And for me now it’s been five years. I’m already winning. My goal now is to try and help as many people as I can and also live a happy life.”
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Home and Away cast pay tribute to Johnny Ruffo after his death.
Johnny Ruffo’s former Summer Bay castmates have shared memories and sent love to his family and long-term girlfriend, Tahnee Sims.
“Oh Johnny. He was the first cast member I ever met on Home and Away and he was instantly warm, funny and self-deprecating. What joy he brought to the world. Sending all my love to Tahnee, and all Johnny’s family and friends,” Penny McNamee wrote.
“So devastatingly sad. My heart is absolutely broken. Life just isn’t fair. Johnny you will continue to be an inspiration to all of us. I’m sending all my love to Johnny’s family, dear friends and beautiful Tahnee,” Sarah Roberts said.
“Sending love to Johnny’s family, friends and loved ones. He was truly one in a million, funny, bright and such a hard worker. It’s ridiculously cruel that he’s no longer here. Rest up now Johnny,” Georgie Parker commented.
“Devastated. We all loved you Johnny. Much love to you and Tahnee and Johnny’s family. Forever young and always in our hearts,” Christie Hayes wrote.
Johnny Ruffo and Samara Weaving on Home and Away. Image credit: Channel 7, Home and Away
Aussie celebrities share heartbreak over Johnny Ruffo’s death.
The Instagram post was only shared an hour ago, but the comment section has already been flooded with condolences from friends and fans.
“My heart is broken,” TV presenter and cancer survivor Sally Obermeder wrote. “We loved you so much. Thinking of your family and all who loved you.”
“What a man! You always knew how to light up a room Johnny! Sending every bit of love to all of your loved ones! Absolutely heartbroken,” singer Bonnie Anderson added.
“The cheekiest chap. His voice, smile and dancing feet will be missed by so many. Thinking of his family in this heartbreaking time,” Dannii Minogue commented.
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Image credits: Instagram/@johnny_ruffo, Channel 7, Home and Away