Legendary singer John Farnham has confirmed he will never sing on stage again.
It’s a confirmation that many may have assumed, but the words direct from Farnham’s lips close a legendary chapter of Australian music.
The You’re the Voice singer made the admission while announcing an incredible concert he has curated in honour of his music, an event with a star-studded line-up, to raise vital funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia.
The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend — The Celebration Concert will see stars including Celine Dion, Hugh Jackman, Keith Urban, Richard Marx, Tina Arena, Jimmy Barnes, Mahalia Barnes, Kate Ceberano, Diesel, Hans, Human Nature, Jack Jones, Jessica Mauboy, Ruby Rodgers, Jon Stevens, Mitch Tambo, Mark Vincent, Ross Wilson and more.
It will be a celebration of the Farnham songbook, one night only, hosted in Melbourne at Rod Laver Arena on September 20, 2026.
Confirming that he would never sing again, Farnham told the Herald Sun: “We can rule that out.”
“Because of the surgeries to my mouth and face over the past few years, singing on stage is not something I can consider again. It’s just not possible.”
Farnham was diagnosed with mouth cancer in August 2024, undergoing what doctors called life-saving 12-hour surgery to remove the cancer. He also required reconstruction surgery to his face and jaw.
As he embarked on his recovery, the legendary singer battled challenges with speaking and eating, also left unable to sing like he once could.
The incredible event celebrating Farnham’s work will bring together a lineup of 120 artists and musicians.
Farnham’s longtime musical director, Chong Lim, will lead the John Farnham Band, a 38-piece orchestra and a choir, as the music legend’s catalogue, which has defined generations, is celebrated.
“More than just a concert, the event will serve a greater purpose — shining a spotlight on head and neck cancer and helping to raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia,” TEGDainty said in a statement.
Farnham revealed to the Herald Sun that he had been approached multiple times about a celebration concert, something he previously knocked back.
However, after it was presented to him as an opportunity to raise funds, Farnham decided he was in.
“That changed my mind. I had to look at this a different way,” Farnham said.
“So, here we are. I’m gobsmacked and truly grateful that everyone has said yes. It is truly humbling and I can’t thank them enough for what they will be doing for this cause, which is very special and personal for me.”
Dion and Jackman will perform at the event via satellite.
“I’m so excited to be part of this incredible event to honour one of the great Australians and icons,” Jackman said.
The Greatest Showman star also revealed that Farnham had been an inspiration since his days in Perth when Jackman was a drama student. He said he snuck in and watched all of the music legend’s sound check at the Perth Entertainment Centre while working there.
Those interested in getting their hands on tickets are being urged to be prepared and move fast.
Tickets for the one-off event will go on sale at 10am, Tuesday 2nd June.
The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend — The Celebration Concert
Sunday, 20 September, 2026
Rod Laver Arena - Melbourne
Tickets through ticketek.com.au
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