On Saturday 19th of September, Farnham’s wife Jill and sons Robert and James issued a statement confirming he would miss
The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend – The Celebration Concert at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena the following night.
The family statement saying:
“John has been deeply moved by everything happening this weekend around the tribute concert at Rod Laver Arena.
The extraordinary work of the producers over these past few months, the generosity of all the artists giving their time, and the dedication of the crew and production teams working so hard to deliver this special concert — none of it is taken for granted by John or any of us, as a family. On John’s behalf, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
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.
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.
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.
Thank you for your understanding and for the many messages of love and support John continues to receive.
And to everyone involved in this weekend’s celebration concert: chookas!
Much love,
Jill, Robert and James Farnham”
Farnham, born in England and raised in Australia, is one of the country’s most successful recording artists. His 1986 album Whispering Jack sold more than 1.6 million copies. He has won more than 20 ARIA Awards, was Australian of the Year in 1987, and holds the record for 94 sold-out shows at Rod Laver Arena. He was diagnosed with oral cancer in 2022 and underwent a marathon 12-hour operation involving 26 surgeons. He was declared cancer-free in 2023, but extensive surgeries to his mouth and face ended his performing career. In 2022 he said singing on stage was “just not possible.”
Days before the tribute, son Rob Farnham told A Current Affair that his father was “so good… he’s back to his old self” in personality, still fast-talking, still singing jingles and songs to his young grandson Jett. The voice remained, Rob said, but big shows were no longer possible. The family’s later statement painted a more serious picture of recent deterioration.
The sold-out concert on Sunday 20 September went ahead as planned and was also beamed live to Hoyts cinemas nationwide. More than 120 artists and musicians (many personally invited by Farnham) performed under the direction of his longtime musical director Chong Lim, backed by the John Farnham Band, a 38-piece orchestra, choir, drum line and bagpipers.
The event launched the Lend Your Voice campaign, working to raise $1 million for Head and Neck Cancer Australia, the organisation that supported Farnham through his own treatment. Screening facilities were even set up at the venue.
Performers included Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Keith Urban, Jessica Mauboy, Kate Ceberano, Human Nature, Jon Stevens, Richard Marx, Mark Vincent, Ross Wilson and Farnham’s son Rob, who sang “Love to Shine.” Celine Dion appeared via satellite from Paris and Hugh Jackman from Los Angeles. Coldplay’s Chris Martin made a surprise remote appearance.
Host Richard Wilkins noted the night marked Farnham’s unofficial 95th sold-out show at the venue. Footage of Farnham’s past performances played throughout. Celine Dion called him a “dear friend” and “deep inspiration.” Major General Peter Cosgrove, in a video message, said Farnham is “woven into the fabric of Australian culture.”
The three-hour, 26-song set included medleys of “Age of Reason,” “Reasons” and “Have a Little Faith (In Us),” plus “Burn for You,” “You’re the Voice” (performed multiple times), “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and others. The finale brought the entire company and 24 bagpipers together for “You’re the Voice,” with the crowd on its feet.
Rob Farnham told the packed arena the turnout would “absolutely warm his heart.”
