Australian television star and singer Johnny Ruffo has died aged 35, after a battle with brain cancer.
Hollywood is saying goodbye to an inspiring soap opera star.
Johnny Ruffo—who played Chris Harrington on Home and Away from 2013 to 2016—died at age 35 following a long battle with a rare brain cancer, per a post on his Instagram page Nov. 9.
He passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family and partner Tahnee Sims, according to the statement.
“It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny,” the message read. “He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and had a strong will.”
In the tribute post, his loved ones also praised his strength and positivity.
“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,” they continued. “We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives.”
The Australian actor shot to stardom in 2011 after competing in The X Factor in his home country. The following year, he won Dancing With the Stars. He starred in the TV miniseries House of Bond in 2017 and the soap drama Neighbours in 2020 after rocketing to fame on Home and Away.
“Johnny was ultimately diagnosed with a rare brain cancer, with which—despite a period of remission—he still battles today,” the report went on to say. “But in a strange way Johnny thinks the cancer actually saved his life.”
He kept sharing pictures from his chemotherapy sessions and other details about his health experience on social media once his cancer reappeared in 2020.
“After an unexpected week of seizures and excruciating headaches,” Ruffo posted to Instagram in November 2020, “it is with a heavy heart that i have to let you know i now have another huge battle ahead of me as my brain cancer has returned, though i will dig deep and beat this s–t disease again.”
The singer thanked fans in a different post, saying, “Thank you so much for all the support, You guys have helped keep my spirits high and you keep me fighting,” and pledged to “smash this chemo.”
Ruffo was able to share his story through the release of his book in August 2022, when he celebrated the major milestone with his partner.
“Proud of you everyday,” Sims, 29, wrote to him on Instagram at the time, “but watching you smash yet another goal whilst dealing with everything you have been dealt is inspiring beyond words. You are one of a kind.”
