John Farnham’s Family Reveals Health Decline Ahead of Tribute Show
The singer's wife and sons say his health "has deteriorated in recent months."
John Farnham's family announced on the eve of a sold-out tribute concert for his 50-year career that the singer will not be attending due to a worsening health condition. In a family statement released on social media by Jill, Robert, and James Farnham, they revealed that John cannot make it to the Melbourne event on Sunday, September 20, citing his declining health.
The family explained that John now requires oxygen support continuously and uses a wheelchair for mobility, necessitating 24-hour nursing care at home. They had previously kept these details private while they adjusted to John's changing needs, but felt it was time to share his situation with fans.
Despite his inability to attend, the statement emphasized that John remains "deeply moved" by the concert and would have been "overwhelmed" by the attention but also "wanted to thank everyone involved." The concert, "The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend," features 120 performers chosen by Farnham himself, including Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Keith Urban, Jessica Mauboy, and Kate Ceberano.
Additionally, Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman will appear via satellite. The event aims to raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia, the organization that supported Farnham through his 2022 oral cancer diagnosis, which required a 12-hour surgery involving 26 surgeons. Although John was declared cancer-free in 2023, he has made only sporadic public appearances since and has confirmed that singing again is "just not possible."
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