John Farnham’s family reveal beloved star too unwell to attend his Melbourne tribute concert

Music legend John Farnham has revealed he will not be able to attend the Melbourne tribute concert in his honour on Sunday.

His family explained how significantly John’s health condition has deteriorated in a statement shared on Saturday night.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: John Farnham will not attend his tribute concert.

It was initially hoped that John, who has battled oral cancer in recent years, would join the lineup which includes Keith Urban, Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Kate Ceberano, and more than 100 other artists.

John said in May that he would not be able to perform at the celebration concert, but now it is clear he will not even be able to attend The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend, which will be raising funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia.

He requires 24/7 nursing care, continuous oxygen, and a wheelchair, his wife and sons said in the statement on Saturday.

“John has been deeply moved by everything happening this weekend around the tribute concert at Rod Laver Arena,” Jill, Robert and James Farnham said.

“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.

‘John would have loved nothing more than to attend’

The Farnham family said in the statement that John would have loved to attend the concert, and that they now felt the need to explain John’s condition and the family decision to keep him home.

“We have kept these matters private while our family has adjusted to John’s changing needs,” the family said.

“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.”

‘Truly humbling’

John was initially unsure about the Rod Laver arena show, opposed to the fussing over him, but changed his mind when it was suggested that the concert could raise funds for head and neck cancer charities.

“So, here we are. I’m gobsmacked and truly grateful that everyone has said yes,” Farnham said in May.

“It is truly humbling and I can’t thank them enough for what they will be doing for this cause, which is very special and personal for me.”

His diagnosis was revealed in 2022, and John spoke at the time of his gratitude for the specialist healthcare professionals treating him in Victoria, where he underwent a 12-hour procedure to remove and reconstruct part of his jaw to remove a tumor.

The treatment left him facing significant physical and emotional challenges, including difficulties with speaking, eating and singing.

A year after the surgery, Farnham revealed he was cancer-free and has since remained largely out of the spotlight, supported by his family, including his wife Jill who he described as his “rock” throughout his health battles.

More than 120 artists will recognise the star, who became a teen pop idol in the 60s, with legends Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman set to perform via satellite on Sunday as fans gather to celebrate John’s life and music.