After a long and brave battle with brain cancer, Johnny Ruffo, famed for his roles in "Home and Away" and "X Factor Australia," succumbed to the disease on August 12, 2022.

Ruffo first caught the public's attention as a bright-eyed finalist on "X Factor Australia" in 2011. His magnetic personality and vocal prowess quickly made him a household name across the nation.

Following his success in the singing competition, Ruffo ventured into acting. He joined the cast of the popular Australian soap opera "Home and Away" in 2013, portraying the character Chris Harrington. Over three years, he appeared in over 300 episodes, earning acclaim for his performance.

In 2012, Ruffo's musical talents were further showcased when he released his debut single "On Top." That same year, he also participated in "Dancing with the Stars Australia," displaying his versatility as an entertainer.

The battle with cancer begins

Ruffo's life took a dramatic turn in 2017 when he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, oligodendroglioma. He underwent surgery to remove a tumor the size of a tennis ball, beginning a challenging journey with the disease.

After a period of remission, Ruffo faced a devastating setback in 2020. He revealed that the cancer had returned, following symptoms of seizures and headaches. Despite this, he continued to engage with his fans and work on various projects, CNN reported.

One of Ruffo's most impactful contributions during his cancer battle was his book "No Finish Line," published in August 2021. The book detailed his experiences and struggles with the disease, offering a source of inspiration and hope to others facing similar battles.

"It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny," read a statement posted on Ruffo's Instagram announcing his death. "He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and had a strong will. He battled all the way to the end and fought as hard as he could. Such a beautiful soul with so much more to give."

Ruffo's death has left a void in the entertainment industry and among his fans worldwide. His journey through fame and health struggles has been a story of resilience and courage.

Actress Penny McNamee, Ruffo's former co-star on "Home and Away," remembered him as "warm, funny and self-deprecating," highlighting the joy he brought to the world. Similarly, actress Georgie Parker described him as "one in a million, funny, bright and such a hard worker."

Remembering Johnny Ruffo

Singer Dannii Minogue recalled Ruffo as "the cheekiest chap," whose "voice, smile and dancing feet will be missed by many." Actress Sophie Dillman simply referred to him as "such a beautiful soul."

The entertainment community's outpouring of love and grief reflects the impact Ruffo had on those around him. His journey, from a talent show contestant to a beloved national figure, is a testament to his charisma and talent.

Renowned singer Mel B expressed her sorrow succinctly: "My heart just broke." Such sentiments echo across social media, with fans and colleagues sharing memories and tributes.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

• Unpredictable nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment: Ruffo's life though cut short, was lived with passion and purpose, inspiring us to do the same.
• Significance of medical awareness and early detection: Regular health check-ups and attention to bodily changes can be crucial in combating such diseases.
• The power of vulnerability: Sharing one's challenges can provide strength to others facing similar battles and help remove the stigma around illnesses like cancer.

Why this story matters

Johnny Ruffo's story is significant for various reasons. It highlights the fragility of life, reminding us to appreciate our loved ones and the moments we share.

His public battle with cancer brings awareness to the disease, encouraging conversations and potentially inspiring others to seek timely medical advice.

Ruffo's legacy in entertainment, both in music and acting, will continue to inspire aspiring artists. His journey illustrates the power of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Above all, it's a human story that connects us all, reminding us of our shared vulnerabilities and strengths.

• Johnny Ruffo, a beloved Australian actor and singer, passed away at 35 after a brave fight against brain cancer.
• He was known for his roles in "Home and Away," "X Factor Australia," and as a contestant on "Dancing with the Stars Australia."
• Ruffo was diagnosed with oligodendroglioma, a rare brain cancer, in 2017 and had undergone surgery to remove a large tumor.
• He remained an inspiration through his battle, documenting his journey in his book "No Finish Line."