By Nell Geraets
Former Home and Away star Johnny Ruffo has died at the age of 35 after a long battle with brain cancer.
The Australian singer and actor’s death was confirmed in a statement, which was posted to his Instagram account.
“It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny,” the statement read.
“We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives.”
In the statement, Ruffo was described as a talented, charming and “sometimes cheeky” person who remained strong throughout his fight with cancer. “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,” the statement read.
Ruffo, who was also a contestant on The X Factor, was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2017, and again in 2020.
Johnny Ruffo, Australian singer and actor, has died.
Colleagues and friends posted their condolences on social media on Friday afternoon. Pop star Dannii Minogue wrote that Ruffo was “the cheekiest chap”.
“His voice, smile and dancing feet will be missed by so many. Thinking of his family in this heartbreaking time,” Minogue said.
Actor Penny McNamee, who also appeared on Home and Away, wrote: “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 a joy he brought to the world.”
Ruffo as he was about to appear on Home and Away in 2013.Credit: Marco Del Grande
Radio personality Ryan “Fitzy” Fitzgerald said he was shattered.
“An absolute beacon of positivity,” Fitzy wrote. “Johnny walked into any room and put a smile on everybody’s face. Gonna miss ya, brother. Watch over us.”
Former AFL player Brendan Fevola said, “This is so Sad. RIP great man. Lots of fun memories together.” Fevola and Ruffo competed against each other on Dancing With The Stars.
“Oh my goodness this is so heartbreaking,” said singer Taylor Henderson. “I am so sorry to hear this. What an incredible man he is. He gave me such incredible advice at the start of my career, and I was always amazed at his work ethic. He really inspired me to keep going.”
Ruffo featured on the third season of the Australian X Factor in 2011, where he reached the finals, before winning the 12th season of Dancing With the Stars in 2012. He then starred on the soap opera Home and Away as Chris Harrington alongside other Aussie stars like Chris Hemsworth from 2013 to 2016.
Ruffo leaves behind his long-time partner, Tahnee Sims.
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