Johnny Ruffo, the talented Australian singer, former contestant on “The X Factor,” and actor on “Home and Away,” has passed away at the age of 35 after battling brain cancer.
Diagnosed in 2017, Ruffo underwent surgery to remove a tumor, but the cancer recurred three years later.
Last August, he revealed the terminal nature of his diagnosis.
The sad news was shared in a statement on Ruffo’s Instagram account, expressing that he peacefully departed surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, with the support of dedicated healthcare professionals.
The statement remembered Ruffo as a determined, charming, and sometimes cheeky individual, highlighting his strength in battling the disease.
Born in Perth in 1988, Ruffo gained public attention as a contestant on “The X Factor” in 2011, ultimately signing with Sony Music Australia.
His journey continued with appearances on “Dancing with the Stars” and a three-year role on the soap opera “Home and Away,” earning him a Logie Awards nomination for most popular new talent in 2014.
Despite a period of remission, Ruffo faced a recurrence of brain cancer in 2020, sharing his ongoing battle on social media and releasing a memoir titled “No Finish Line” in August 2022.
Colleagues and friends, including Angus Ross of the Seven Network and Guy Sebastian, paid tribute to Ruffo, remembering him as a charismatic entertainer who brought joy both on and off the screen.
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented artist, acknowledging the indomitable spirit with which Ruffo faced his challenging journey.