Olivia Newton-John has been forced to release a video, assuring fans that she isn’t on her deathbed after claims emerged online.
It came after website Radar Online reported that the 70-year-old’s body was shutting down. Shortly after, an array of other news outlets claimed sources close to the iconic entertainer had told them Olivia had just weeks, and not months, to live.
Putting the rumours to bed, a healthy and happy looking Olivia shared a video on her Facebook page on Thursday, explaining to fans what is really going on.
“Happy New Year everyone,” the Grease star says in the video. “I just want to say that the rumours of my death have been greatly exaggerated, to quote a very famous quote.”
She added: “I’m doing great and I just want to wish all of you the happiest, healthiest 2019 that’s possible.”
The singer also thanked her fans for the wonderful love and support. Olivia’s niece Tottie Goldsmith broke her silence on Facebook on Wednesday evening over the fake news surrounding her aunt’s health.. Sharing a photograph of herself with Olivia, Tottie explained that reports of her aunt dying weren’t true.
Read more: Olivia Newton-John’s family breaks silence over death reports
“Just giving you the heads up that Livvy is in good health, so let’s leave that pathetic rumor [sic] where it belongs,” she wrote.
The star also spoke exclusively to 7 News on Wednesday evening. Tottie had Olivia’s permission to speak to the news outlet.
“You can rest assured she is going nowhere and in really good health,” she told 7 News. “A sick rumour.”
The report said that while the singer is battling cancer, she is using a mix of treatments including radiation, natural remedies and cannabis oil.
The video shared by Olivia on Thursday was the first time she personally responded to the reports. On Wednesday, Olivia’s American representative Michael Caprio denied his client had just weeks to live. Speaking exclusively to News.com.au, Caprio said reports of Olivia’s alleged pending death were “hilarious”.
“No she has not,” Caprio told news.com.au. “You might want to get better sources versus reading tabloids.”
Fans have been quick to celebrate the news on social media.
One person said: “You are an amazing picture of health and a beautiful human Olivia. You are true inspiration to millions. Keep on shining.”
Another said: “Thank you for setting the record straight! You’re so loved! Prayers going your way, Olivia!”
A third added: “Thank God! I love you! So happy to hear you are well. Happy New Year!”
The ‘Physical’ singer was originally diagnosed with cancer in 1992 and confirmed last year she was fighting cancer for the third time.