John Farnham to Miss Tribute Concert Due to Poor Health
John Farnham will miss a tribute concert celebrating his career due to poor health. The concert, featuring stars like Jimmy Barnes and Celine Dion, will raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia.
Beloved Australian music legend John Farnham will not be attending a tribute concert dedicated to his illustrious career due to poor health, his family has confirmed.
The concert, titled The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend, is set to take place at Rod Laver Arena tonight, with proceeds going towards the cancer service that supported Farnham during his battle with cancer.
In a heartfelt statement posted on social media, Farnham's wife, Jill, and sons, Robert and James, expressed that the singer was "deeply moved" by the musical tribute but would be too unwell to attend the event.
"Many people have been asking whether John will be involved in the concert or attending tomorrow night to watch it all happen," the Farnham family statement said.
"Unfortunately, he will not be able to attend and, as a family, we feel it is important to provide an update on John's health to help explain why."
The family revealed that the 77-year-old singer, known for his hit song You're the Voice, requires continuous oxygen support and receives 24-hour nursing care at home.
"John's health has deteriorated in recent months. He now requires continuous oxygen support and uses a wheelchair for mobility," the statement read.
"It has also become necessary for John to receive 24-hour nursing care at home, ensuring trained support is always available when he needs it."
A star-studded lineup of Australian and international artists, including Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Human Nature, Jessica Mauboy, Kate Ceberano, Ross Wilson, Celine Dion, and Richard Marx, are set to perform at the tribute concert.
The event aims to raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia, a cause close to Farnham's heart after his own cancer battle.
"We have kept these matters private while our family has adjusted to John's changing needs. However, we now feel it is important that John's fans and supporters understand his circumstances and why he cannot be there this weekend," the Farnham family said.
"If things were different, John would have loved nothing more than to attend the concert. He would undoubtedly have been a little overwhelmed by all the fuss, but he would also have wanted to thank everyone involved in person."
"As a family, we have decided that it is best for John to remain at home, where he can be safe and comfortable."