Rosario Monachino
The Home and Away star has tragically died aged just 35.
Johnny Ruffo made a name for himself in 2011 when he made it through to the finals of X Factor Australia.
The following year he won Dancing with the Stars and released his debut single ‘On Top’ – which peaked at number 14 on the ARIA Charts.
However, the actor was best known for his starring role in the Australian TV soap opera Home and Away, in which he played Chris Harrington for three years from 2013 to 2016.
Sadly, it has been announced that Ruffo has passed away.
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In an Instagram post uploaded on his account, a statement reads: “It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny.
“Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny went peacefully with the support of some incredible nurses and doctors.
“He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and had a strong will.”
The statement continues: “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.”
“We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives.”
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Fans and those who knew Ruffo have taken to the comments to pay tribute to the ‘Broken Glass’ singer.
Former X Factor judge Dani Minogue pens: “The cheekiest chap. His voice, smile and dancing feet will be missed by so many. Thinking of his family in this heartbreaking time.”
“My heart just broke,” adds Spice Girl Mel B.
A fan says: “Oh Johnny. I’m so sorry, sending all my love to your family. Thank you for the memories.”
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Someone else writes: “Oh my heart is broken. One of the kindest human beings you’d ever come across.”
Ruffo has had two separate battles with brain cancer – having first been diagnosed in 2017 and again in 2020, as per ABC Australia.
The soap opera star had been silent on social media since early August, where he updated fans on his battle with cancer and shared a montage of his six years in hospital.
Ruffo spoke to local Perth radio station Youth Jam, praising his partner’s support throughout his diagnosis.
He said: “At the moment (treatment is) every two weeks, which is pretty gruelling. And it makes you feel like death like it’s horrid, it’s really horrible.”
Ruffo went on to say that having Tahnee by his side during his treatment made it bearable.
He continued: “She’s remarkable. I can’t give her enough kudos for how amazing she’s been and how much I’ve been able to lean on her for support.
“She’s had to put up with all that on top of having to go through it with me. She’s been so strong, stronger than I have through all of this.
“She’s helped me pick myself up when I’m done and I can’t thank her enough.“ I’m sorry, I’m at a loss for words over how incredible she has been. To me and for me.”
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