Logies Tribute to John Farnham Sparks Confusion: "He's Not Dead!"
The 2024 Logie Awards saw a heartfelt tribute to Australian music icon John Farnham, but it sparked confusion amongst viewers who were unaware of his recent cancer battle and recovery.
During the ceremony, David Campbell took to the stage to celebrate Farnham's illustrious career, highlighting his numerous achievements and his courageous fight against cancer. He lauded the singer's impact on Australian music, stating, "He sold over six million albums, had a career spanning 60 years and is one of the best live performers the world has ever seen." Campbell also acknowledged Farnham's family and close friends, ending his speech with, "But, most importantly tonight, it's about celebrating you, John. You are an Aussie icon. You are the voice, mate."
Following Campbell's tribute, singers Guy Sebastian and Jess Mauboy performed one of Farnham's most recognisable hits, "You're The Voice." However, viewers at home found the tone of the tribute jarring, with many taking to social media to express their confusion and concern.
"I get John had a doco and had some health issues recently, but he hasn't passed away. Also, this would be better at the ARIAs, you know the music awards of Australia," one viewer wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Another commented, "RIP John Farnham, didn't know he passed," while others were equally bewildered, declaring, "OMG FARNSY IS STILL ALIVE. This is not a eulogy."
Some viewers took a more humorous approach, with one posting, "Look. I get Farnsy is a national treasure, but he's not dead. Can we please stop acting like he's dead?"
Despite the confusion, a number of viewers appreciated the tribute and commended the performers. One wrote, "I think it's better to celebrate our amazingly talented icons whilst they're still alive!! We love you John." Another lauded Mauboy's performance, writing, "Jessica Mauboy you are the voice!!! That was perfection."
It's worth noting that Farnham, who revealed in August 2023 that he was cancer-free, has been open about his health struggles following surgery for a cancerous tumour in his mouth in 2022. His family had previously provided updates on his condition, and his son Robert shared in 2023 that his father was "doing fantastic" following a gruelling 12-hour surgery.
The Logies tribute, while intended to celebrate Farnham's legacy, inadvertently highlighted the confusion surrounding his health status. While some viewers found the tribute to be in poor taste, others appreciated the opportunity to acknowledge the Australian icon's ongoing influence on the music scene.
