John Farnham will not attend tonight’s tribute concert in Melbourne, his family has confirmed.
In a statement posted to social media, Jill, Robert and James Farnham said that as the Australian music icon’s health “has deteriorated in recent months,” he will not attend tonight’s show at Rod Laver Arena.
“John has been deeply moved by everything happening this weekend around the tribute concert at Rod Laver Arena,” the statement reads.
“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.
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“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.”
Read the full statement below.
The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend – The Celebration Concert will be broadcast live from Melbourne’s sold-out Rod Laver Arena show to Hoyts cinemas nationwide.
The one-night-only concert will bring together more than 120 artists and musicians to celebrate Farnham’s career and catalogue, with his longtime musical director Chong Lim overseeing the music and arrangements.
The lineup includes Vanessa Amorosi, Tina Arena, Jimmy Barnes, Mahalia Barnes, Kate Ceberano, Diesel, Rob Farnham, Dannielle Gaha, Hans, Human Nature, Jack Jones, Richard Marx, Jessica Mauboy, Ruby Rodgers, Jon Stevens, Mitch Tambo, Keith Urban, Mark Vincent, and Ross Wilson.
Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman will also appear remotely for their performances.
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A statement from our family.
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
