Australian actor and singer Johnny Ruffo, known for his appearances on the popular Australian TV series "Home and Away" and X Factor Australia, has passed away at the age of 35 after bravely battling brain cancer. The news was announced via a statement posted on Ruffo's official Instagram account on Friday.

In the heartfelt statement, it was revealed that Ruffo passed away peacefully, surrounded by his partner Tahnee and his family, with the support of dedicated nurses and doctors. Described as a talented, charming, and sometimes cheeky individual, Ruffo was hailed for his determination and strong will. His battle with cancer was marked by resilience and an unwavering spirit.

The statement expressed the collective love and admiration for Ruffo, highlighting the joy he brought to the lives of those around him. The post was inundated with condolences and tributes from fellow cast members, including Penny McNamee and Georgie Parker from "Home and Away," reminiscing about their time working with Ruffo and praising his warm, funny, and hardworking nature.

Various celebrities also joined in paying tribute to Ruffo. Dannii Minogue, Australian singer and TV personality, described him as "the cheekiest chap" and emphasized the impact he had made with his voice, smile, and dancing feet. Former Spice Girl Mel B, who judged Ruffo during his time on X Factor Australia, expressed her heartbreak at the news.

Johnny Ruffo first rose to national prominence as a finalist on X Factor Australia in 2011. Following his success on the talent show, he signed a record label with Sony and released his debut single "On Top" in 2012, followed by "Take It Home." Ruffo also showcased his dancing skills as a contestant on "Dancing with the Stars" the same year.

From 2013 to 2016, Ruffo portrayed the character of Chris Harrington in the long-running series "Home and Away," appearing in 307 episodes. He further made notable appearances in the TV mini-series "House of Bond" in 2017 and played the role of Owen Campbell in four episodes of the Australian soap opera "Neighbours" in 2022.

In 2017, Ruffo publicly shared his diagnosis of brain cancer and underwent surgery to remove a tumor. Two years later, he announced that the cancer had gone into remission. However, in November 2020, Ruffo revealed that the cancer had returned. Despite the challenges, he remained resolute in his fight against the disease, relying on the support of his loved ones and the encouragement from his fans.

Ruffo's battle with cancer was detailed in his book "No Finish Line," released in August 2021, where he recounted his experiences and the courage it took to confront the illness. The actor and singer's strength and resilience throughout his journey inspired many, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him and his fans around the world.

Johnny Ruffo's passing is a tragic loss for the entertainment industry and his fans, who will remember him for his boundless talent, infectious energy, and tremendous spirit. His contributions to the world of acting and music will leave an enduring legacy. The news of his untimely death serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against cancer and the need for continued support in finding a cure.

Australian actor and singer Johnny Ruffo will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and in the lasting impact he made throughout his extraordinary career.