Mega stars among the fans who love John Farnham

Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Tom Jones are among the international superstars who regularly dial up John Farnham to keep track of his cancer recovery.

International superstars have Australian music legend John Farnham on speed dial, regularly checking in to keep up to date with his recovery from oral cancer.

“My mum (Jill) gets voice video messages from Chris Martin from Coldplay and Tom Jones, which is quite funny, checking in on dad,” Farnham’s son James revealed.

Farnham, 75, was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour in his mouth in August 2022.

He underwent surgery in Melbourne to have the growth removed and has been recovering privately for the past two years.

Australian music legend John Farnham.

Farnham has been recovering from cancer surgery since 2022. Picture: Supplied

Farnham’s cancer battle inspired James and his brother Rob to sign on as ambassadors for this year’s Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day Appeal.Picture: Supplied

Farnham’s cancer battle inspired James and his brother Rob to sign on as ambassadors for this year’s Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day Appeal.

“Mum has been growing daffodils in her garden specifically for this day for years, so we already feel like we have been part of the campaign for years,” James said.

While Farnham has privately confronted his health crisis, James said his father and the whole family understood the public’s interest in his recovery and the unwavering support they had received from fans.

“There are a lot of people out there who love dad and I don’t blame them,” he said.

“Some would consider him an icon, I definitely do, and we understand that.

“He always said once people stop caring or don’t want an autograph or want a photo that is a big red flag.

“That people still care sort of blows his mind. He is quite a humble guy and he is very thankful for the career he has had and the people who supported him.”

Added James: “He has such respect for his fans and he understands that his fans want to know how he is doing. He knows they made him who he is.”

Rob and James attended the Logies last Sunday where the documentary on their father’s career John Farnham: Finding The Voice won best factual or documentary program.

“Poppy (Stockell), the director, was able to put together such an amazing tribute to friendship, love, brotherhood and the career that intertwined the both of them (Farnham and Glenn Wheatley),” Rob said.