Australian singing icon John Farnham goes into hospital after being diagnosed with cancer

Australian icon John Farnham has been admitted into hospital for surgery after being diagnosed with cancer.

The singer will undergo surgery this morning (Tuesday, August 23) to remove a cancerous growth at a Victorian hospital.

Farnham and his family issued a statement revealing his health condition while sharing that the singer is set to receive ongoing treatment.

“Cancer diagnosis is something that so many people face every single day, and countless others have walked this path before me,” Farnham said.

“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.”

His family have also asked for privacy during this time.

Farnham has been one of Australia’s most notable homegrown talents since the 1960s.

His career kicked off early at 18 when he signed to a record label and later released the single ‘Sadie the Cleaning Lady’, which became the top-selling Australian single in 1967.

After his career debut, Farnham released a string of hits, including a cover of BJ Thomas’ smash hit ‘Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head’, ‘Are You Having Any Fun’ and ‘One’.

However, in 1980 Farnham made the departure from teen idol and transitioned into a more seasoned performer with the release of a reworked version of the Beatles' ‘Help’, followed by the release of his adult contemporary pop album Uncovered.

But Farnham is perhaps most well-known for his 12th studio album Whispering Jack. 

The album included the Australian pop anthem ‘You’re the Voice’, which was also a huge international hit, as it sold one million copies in Europe and reached the top 10 in England.

The 73-year-old has received countless accolades, including 21 ARIA Awards from 60 nominations. He was also inducted into the ARIA's Hall of Fame in 2003. 

Most recently, the icon was rocked by the death of his friend Olivia Newton-John.

The two performed 'Dare to Dream' at the opening ceremony for the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

He said in a statement: “The Farnham family send love and sympathies to Olivia’s family. Behind that iconic smile was a tenacious fighter. A beautiful voice and a loyal friend. She will be greatly missed.”

Featured Image Credit: Cpuk / Alamy Stock Photo. Robert Wallace / Wallace Media Network / Alamy Stock Photo

Topics: Australia, Celebrity, Music

Charisa Bossinakis

Charisa Bossinakis is an Associative Journalist at LADbible. Charisa has worked across various media platforms including, print, digital, radio and podcasting while maintaining the highest regard for quality work and integrity. She also covered everything from breaking news, to pop culture, entertainment and politics and is part of the editorial team for LADbible.

@CBossinakis