Australian actor and singer Johnny Ruffo, famed for playing Chris Harrington in Home and Away, has sadly passed away aged 35 following a lengthy battle with brain cancer.
Now a resurfaced interview has circulated, showing the heartbreaking moment the actor vowed to stay alive until Christmas 2022.
The Australian star, who was also an X Factor Finalist, tragically passed away on Friday 10 November at a hospital in Sydney surrounded by his family and partner Tahnee Sims.
But an old interview shows he actually lived far longer than he ever hoped.
Following the return of his terminal brain cancer after it went into remission in 2017, the singer told 7News last year he wanted to be around to see Christmas 2022 – as it was due to be a special occasion.
Speaking to 7News, Johnny said: "My brother lives in Ireland now so I haven't seen him for three years and he's coming home for Christmas and I honestly can't wait to see him.
"We're thick as thieves. Honestly, he is my hero. He is everything to me. And I cannot wait to see him. I don't know how I'm going to react, I cannot wait, he's everything."
Johnny lived to enjoy Christmas in 2022 with his family and for almost another year until he sadly passed away on Friday 10 November 2023.
Johnny was first diagnosed with brain cancer in 2017 after seeking help for painful migraines.
In 2019, he announced his cancer was in remission but the following year it sadly returned. Last year, the star confirmed his cancer was terminal.
Johnny has been documenting his cancer battle online along with his partner Tahnee, 29, who he began dating back in 2015.
News of Johnny's passing was shared on his Instagram account on Friday morning. The announcement read: "It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny.
"Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny went peacefully with the support of some incredible Nurses & Doctors. He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy."
The statement continued: "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.
"We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives. Rest easy."
Johnny first found fame on X Factor Australia in 2011, coming in third place in the competition.
The following year, his debut single On Top was released and he went on to compete on Dancing With The Stars, taking home the winners trophy.
In 2013, he launched his acting career and landed the role of Chris Harrington in Home and Away. He was initially only contracted to appear in a few episodes, but this was soon extended and he became a series regular until departing the Channel Seven show in 2016.
In 2017, he starred in two episodes of House of Bond as Dave King, before going on to join the cast of hit Australian soap Neighbours as Owen Campbell in 2020, appearing in six episodes in total.
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