Johnny Ruffo death: Tributes flow for Australian singer following death aged 35

Friends, family and fans are paying tribute to Australian actor and singer Johnny Ruffo, who has passed away aged 35.

His death was announced today on his official Instagram page in a post that read, “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 & Doctors.

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Those closest to him and those who adored him have shared memories and tributes to the late actor, who battled brain cancer, in the comments.

Aussie country singer Jason Owen wrote, “You will be missed mate. A true fighter, gentleman and a great friend to us all. Thank you for the bravery, courage and support you gave me and many others. We love you Johnny rest in peace mate ♥️ Sending love to Tahnee and all of Johnny’s family.”

Spice Girl Mel B said her “heart just broke” upon hearing the news. “Sending my sincere condolences,” she wished the family.

Aussie singer and actress Natalie Bassingthwaighte took a moment to reflect on “what an incredible human” Johnny is, “sending so much love”.

Neighbours star Jiordy wrote, “Devastating news. You fought such an honourable fight – an inspiration to so many. Sending so much love to the family.”

Singing duo The Wolfe Brothers shared, “What a great man. Felt honoured to spend sometime with ya Johnny! Fly high mate.”

Dannii Minogue has remembered Ruffo to be “the cheekiest chap”.

“His voice, smile and dancing feet will be missed by so many. Thinking of his family in this heart breaking time.”

“What an incredible man he is,” shared singer-songwriter Taylor Henderson, “He gave me such incredible advice at the start of my career and I was always amazed at his work ethic. He really inspired me to keep going… what a legend! RIP Johnny thanks for all the joy you brought to this world for others.”

Radio star Fitzy was “shattered” upon hearing the news.

“An absolute beacon of positivity. Johnny walked into any room and put a smile on everybody’s face. Gonna miss ya brother, watch over us.”

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“Anyone to have known you was absolutely privileged,” said Big Brother star Layla Subritzky.

“What a big fight you had to put up. Now you Rest Easy in Love , you absolute Legend! Thinking of all of Johnny’s family and love to Tahnee.”

The statement on Ruffo’s Instagram account remembered the beloved Aussie actor as a “very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy”.

“Johnny was very determined and had a strong will. He battled all the way to the end and fought as hard as he could. Such a beautiful soul with so much more to give. We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives.”

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Ruffo began his career in 2011 on X-Factor Australia and Dancing With The Stars, before it hit the big time, signing a recording contract and serving as the opening act for bands like One Direction and the Backstreet Boys.

Then he turned to acting portraying Chris Harrington on Home and Away from 2013 to 2016, picking up a Logie Award in 2014 for Most Popular New Talent.

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In 2017, Ruffo was diagnosed with brain cancer after a seven-centimetre brain tumour was removed from his head. In 2022, he confirmed his cancer was terminal.

As of March 2023, Ruffo revealed that he was still undergoing treatment for the cancer, five years on.

He is survived by his family, including his parents Jill and Pascoe Ruffo, as well as his long-term partner, Tahnee Sims.