Australian music legend John Farnham’s health has “deteriorated” to the extent that he now needs around-the-clock medical care at home, his family has revealed in a candid statement issued overnight.
The Farnham family said they were moved to give an update on the singer’s condition because of questions as to whether Farnham, 77, would attend the tribute concert happening this weekend in his honour at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena.
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The all-star event will pay tribute to Farnham and his decades-long musical career, which came to an end in 2022 after he had the first of several surgeries to treat oral cancer.
MORE: John Farnham hides $25m after sad quitting
John’s son Rob had insisted on A Current Affair on Friday that, while his father wasn’t well enough to attend the concert, he was “so good … he’s back to his old self.”
But the statement posted by the Farnham family later that night painted a more serious picture of the ailing Aussie legend’s condition.
“Many people have been asking whether John will be involved in the concert or attending tomorrow night to watch it all happen. 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 statement read.
“John’s health has deteriorated in recent months. He now requires continuous oxygen support and uses a wheelchair for mobility. 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.
“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 family said that Farnham would have loved to attend the concert “if things were different,” and thanked those organising the event, noting that their efforts were greatly appreciated by the star and his loved ones.
But ultimately, they said that “as a family, we have decided that it is best for John to remain at home, where he can be safe and comfortable.”
The message was attributed to Farnham’s wife of more than 50 years, Jill, and their sons Robert and James.
The family’s statement was met with an outpouring of support from Farnham’s friends and fans.
“All our love and understanding is being sent to John and his family,” wrote Yellow Wiggle, Greg Page.
“Such a sad update to read … I hope John can enjoy the music tonight in his honour,” commented one fan.
Farnham’s oral cancer treatment involved several facial surgeries, including a jaw reconstruction after the cancer had been successfully removed.
In May this year he issued a statement confirming that those health issues had forced an end to his singing career.
“Because of the surgeries to my mouth and face over the past few years, singing on stage is not something I can consider again,” he said.
“It’s just not possible. We can rule that out.”
Read related topics:Melbourne