Australian music legend John Farnham has made a devastating admission following his battle with oral cancer.
The You’re The Voice singer stepped away from the stage four years ago to undergo gruelling treatment, which left him with significant physical challenges.
In a new interview published on Friday, Farnham confirmed he will never sing or perform in public again.
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“We can rule that out,” Farnham told The Herald Sun.
“Because of the surgeries to my mouth and face over the past few years, singing on stage is not something I can consider again.
“It’s just not possible.”
It was hoped Farnham would sing at his upcoming tribute show.
The Australian icon said he initially thought the idea of a show dedicated to him sounded like a “big, crazy idea”.
“No one needs to come and do this for me. I’m not dead yet, remember,” Farnham added.
But when it was suggested the concert could raise funds for head and neck cancer charities, this changed the singer’s mind.
“So, here we are. I’m gobsmacked and truly grateful that everyone has said yes,” Farnham said.
“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.”
In August 2022, Farnham’s family shared a statement confirming his shock diagnosis.
“Cancer diagnosis is something that so many people face every single day, and countless others have walked this path before me,” Farnham said at the time.
“The one thing I know for sure is that we have the very best specialist healthcare professionals in Victoria, and we can all be grateful for that.
“I know I am.”
He was admitted to hospital immediately and underwent a major operation to remove a tumour from his mouth.
The 12-hour procedure required part of his jaw to be removed and reconstructed.
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 and their sons, Rob and James.
Farnham said it was his wife who has carried him through the toughest moments.
“I honestly don’t think I’d be here if it wasn’t for her,” Farnham told The Herald Sun.
“She has been through everything with me.
“Throughout it all, Jilly kept reminding me why I needed to keep pushing through.
“And it wasn’t just me — she was supporting the boys and the whole family at the same time.
“Everyone needs to know, Jill is the rock for all of us.”
Farnham rose to fame as a teen pop idol in the 1960s, before transitioning his career to adult contemporary singing.
One of Australia’s most popular artists, the singer is best known for his song You’re The Voice.
