John Farnham to miss tribute concert due to poor health

Australian music legend John Farnham will miss a tribute concert dedicated to his career due to poor health, the singer's family has confirmed ahead of the Melbourne event.

The concert, dubbed The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend, will be held at Rod Laver Arena this evening, with funds raised on the night going towards the cancer service that supported Farnham during his cancer battle.

In a statement posted on social media, Farnham's wife, Jill, and sons, Robert and James, wrote that the singer was "deeply moved" by the musical tribute but would be too unwell to attend the arena spectacular.

His family confirmed the 77-year-old You're the Voice singer required continuous oxygen support and was receiving 24-hour nursing care.

"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.

"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."

Some of the biggest names in Australian entertainment are scheduled to take centre stage at the Farnham tribute tonight, including Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Human Nature, Jessica Mauboy, Kate Ceberano and Ross Wilson.

International stars, including Canadian singer Celine Dion and American crooner Richard Marx, are also taking part in the event, which will raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia.

"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."

Farnham is one of Australia's most successful performers, with his 1986 album, Whispering Jack, selling more than 1.6 million copies.

The British-born singer was named 1987 Australian of the Year by then-prime minister Bob Hawke, and has won 21 ARIA awards.

In 2024 Farnham released an autobiography, The Voice Inside, which details the monumental triumphs of his career as well as the immense struggles he has faced.