Beta The Briev beta is out. Free on iPhone via TestFlight — install it in under a minute.

Join the beta ↗
Briev
Live
Culture
CROSS-SPECTRUM

John Farnham Cancels Appearance at Tribute Concert Due to Declining Health

Australian singer John Farnham will not attend the tribute concert at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena because he now requires continuous oxygen and 24-hour nursing care at home.

John Farnham’s family disclosed that the iconic Australian vocalist will miss the tribute concert scheduled for Sunday at Rod Laver Arena because his condition now demands constant oxygen and full-time nursing at his residence. The 77-year-old, who underwent surgery for a mouth tumour in 2022 and was declared cancer-free in 2023, has retired from public life to focus on his health. Fans had hoped to see him at "The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend" show, which includes performances by Keith Urban, Tina Arena, Jimmy Barnes and satellite appearances by Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman.

Proceeds will benefit Head and Neck Cancer Australia. The family expressed that Farnham would have loved to attend but chose to stay home for safety and comfort.

Why it matters

The news highlights the health challenges of a beloved national music figure and the charitable purpose of the tribute event.

In this story

John Farnhamtribute concertcontinuous oxygen24-hour nursing careRod Laver ArenaHead and Neck Cancer AustraliaKeith UrbanCeline DionWhispering Jack musical
Get the beta ↗