Remembering Johnny Ruffo: Former Home and Away Actor and X Factor Star Passes Away at 35
Life in the Limelight
In a somber announcement on Friday, the entertainment world bid farewell to Johnny Ruffo, the former Home and Away actor and notable X Factor contestant, who passed away at the age of 35.
Rising Star on The X Factor
Ruffo, who first gained prominence as a contestant on the musical reality show The X Factor, had been battling brain cancer since 2017.
Diagnosis and Surgery
Diagnosed with brain cancer four years ago, Ruffo underwent surgery to remove a tumor, but unfortunately, the cancer reemerged in 2020. Last August, he publicly shared the heartbreaking news that his condition was terminal.
Peaceful Farewell
A statement posted on his Instagram account conveyed the news of his passing, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny. Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny went peacefully with the support of some incredible nurses and doctors. He was a very talented, charming, and sometimes cheeky soul
From X Factor to Dancing With The Stars
Born in Perth in 1988, Ruffo’s journey into the public eye began with his appearance on The X Factor in 2011, where he secured the third position. Following this, he signed a contract with Sony Music Australia, collaborated with his X Factor mentor Guy Sebastian, and later showcased his talents on the celebrity dance show Dancing With The Stars.
Home and Away: Three-Year Stint
Ruffo’s acting career reached new heights in 2013 when he embarked on a three-year stint on the popular soap opera Home and Away, portraying the character Chris Harrington. His performance earned him a nomination for the Most Popular New Talent at the 2014 Logie Awards.
The Ongoing Battle and Inspirational Resilience
His battle with brain cancer began in 2017, leading to surgery and a period of remission. However, the resilient artist announced the return of his cancer in November 2020, sharing the news with his followers on Instagram. Despite the challenges, Ruffo continued to inspire with his resilience and even released a memoir titled “No Finish Line” in August 2022.
Singer and actor Johnny Ruffo has died aged 35, surrounded by his loved ones after battling brain cancer. pic.twitter.com/MOnzPStKQG
— The Project (@theprojecttv) November 10, 2023Reflections on the Cancer Journey
Reflecting on his journey with cancer, Ruffo wrote, “One of the saddest things about cancer is that even though it can feel like an isolating experience, you quickly learn that it’s actually quite a large club that nobody asked to be part of.
Tributes and Remembrances
Words of Remembrance
Tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry, with Guy Sebastian remembering Ruffo as “the funniest bloke and such a kind soul.” Angus Ross of the Seven Network, which airs both Home and Away and Dancing with the Stars, paid tribute, describing Ruffo as a “talented and charismatic performer who was born to entertain and brought joy to the lives of so many on and off the screen.” The memory of Johnny Ruffo will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those he touched with his talent and spirit.