Aussie singing sensation John Farnham’s recent public appearance has triggered a wave of excitement among fans and prompted a touching tribute from one of the world’s biggest bands.
Although the music legend’s public appearances have been extremely rare, Farnham joined his family to attend Coldplay’s Melbourne concert on Sunday, November 3. It wasn’t long before frontman Chris Martin acknowledged the icon’s presence, drawing cheers from the crowd.
“Mr John Farnham’s in the building,” Martin announced to those in attendance.
The band then launched into a moving rendition of Farnham’s 1986 hit You’re The Voice in tribute as the audience sang along.
Farnham’s son, Rob, shared a photo from the night showing his father, dressed in a black shirt and surrounded by family, enjoying the concert.
“We were guests of @coldplay last night at Marvel Arena. They were amazing. Was a pretty special night,” he wrote alongside the image.
Fans were left overjoyed by the “wonderful family photo”, many happy to catch another glimpse of Farnham “out and about”.
“Aw your dad looks amazing Rob! Bet you guys had a sensational time,” one wrote.
“We were there and hearing that JF was in the house made my absolute year. Sssooo happy to see you all out and about enjoying life together. Please pass on my love.”
“So good to see you out and about John,” commented another.
“Fantastic family photo..much love to your Mum & Dad.”
“Such a wonderful family photo.”
While Farnham’s recent appearance was a joyful occasion, he recently opened up about the heart-wrenching aftermath of his battle with cancer.
In August 2022, Farnham underwent surgery and treatment for mouth cancer. After enduring multiple surgeries, eight weeks of radiation therapy, and overcoming several challenges, Farnham received the “all-clear” from doctors in July 2023 and was declared cancer-free.
While fans were elated that Farnham had overcome his cancer battle, the beloved singer recently shared that the surgery that saved his life has unfortunately left him unable to sing.
“My facial disfigurement from the surgery means I can’t open my mouth wide enough for a strip of spaghetti, let alone to sing,” Farnham revealed in an excerpt from his memoir published by the Sydney Morning Herald.
“I can’t get the movement to make the sounds I want to make, that’s where the vibrations and my voice come from. It’s a very disconcerting thing. And trying hurts.”
Despite the challenges he is currently faced with, Farnham is holding on to hope that he will be able to perform again one day.
“I was given a gift and to be able to get out there and affect people in some way was special, I would like to continue doing that,” he said.
“Though I am not putting all my hopes into it, we’ll see.”