Johnny Ruffo, a singer and actor who rose to fame on reality shows The X Factor Australia and Home and Away, passed away on November 10, 2023, at the age of 35. He had been battling brain cancer since 2017, which eventually claimed his life.
Ruffo was born in Perth, Western Australia, in 1988. He worked as a concreter before pursuing his passion for music and entertainment. He auditioned for The X Factor Australia in 2011, where he impressed the judges and the audience with his charisma and vocal skills. He finished third in the competition and signed a contract with Sony Music Australia. He also recorded a duet with his former X Factor mentor Guy Sebastian.
In 2012, he won the celebrity dance show Dancing With The Stars, showcasing his versatility and talent. He then ventured into acting, landing a role as Chris Harrington on the popular soap opera Home and Away. He played the character for three years, earning a nomination for most popular new talent at the 2014 Logie Awards.
A courageous and inspiring fighter
In 2017, Ruffo revealed that he had been diagnosed with brain cancer, after suffering from seizures and headaches. He underwent surgery to remove a tumor and underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. He shared his journey with his fans on social media, raising awareness and funds for brain cancer research and support.
He announced that he was in remission in 2019, but the cancer returned in 2020. He revealed that his diagnosis was terminal in August 2022, the same month he released his memoir titled No Finish Line. In the book, he wrote: “One of the saddest things about cancer is that even though it can feel like an isolating experience and that you’re the only victim, you quickly learn that it’s quite a large club that nobody asked to be part of.”
He continued to work on his music and acting projects, despite his deteriorating health. He released a single called Broken Glass in 2020 and appeared in a short film called The Final Act in 2021. He also participated in a charity concert for brain cancer in October 2023, just weeks before his death.
A beloved and remembered soul
Ruffo’s death was announced by his family on his Instagram account on Friday. They said that he was surrounded by his partner Tahnee Sims and other relatives and that he was supported by some incredible nurses and doctors. They described him as a “very talented, charming, and sometimes cheeky boy” who had a strong will and a beautiful soul.
His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from his fans and fellow celebrities. Former X Factor host and Spice Girl Mel B wrote on Twitter: “Heartbroken to hear the news of Johnny Ruffo passing. He was a beautiful soul inside and out. Sending love and prayers to his family and friends.” Dannii Minogue, another X Factor judge, wrote on Instagram: “The cheekiest chap. His voice, smile, and dancing feet will be missed by so many.”
His Home and Away co-stars also expressed their grief and admiration for him. Lynne McGranger, who played Irene Roberts on the show, wrote on Instagram: “Rest now beautiful boy. You fought the good fight for so long. You brought joy and laughter to so many. You will be remembered with love and gratitude.” Ada Nicodemou, who played Leah Patterson-Baker, wrote on Instagram: “Johnny, you were one of a kind, you were courageous, funny, cheeky, talented, kind, and a beautiful soul. You will be missed by everyone who knew you.”
Ruffo is survived by his partner Tahnee Sims, who stood by him throughout his ordeal. He also leaves behind his parents, his sister, and his many friends and fans. He will be remembered as a star who shone brightly on stage and screen, and as a fighter who never gave up on his dreams.
