Johnny Ruffo lost his battle with brain cancer on Friday at the age of 35.
And a touching moment seen by the former Home and Away star during his days as an X Factor finalist has resurfaced in the wake of the tragedy.
In the clip, from 2011, Johnny wins over judge Mel B, who had previously voted against him, after his performance of Tonight Tonight on Hot Chelle Rae.
“You bring so much fun and character to the competition. You have something that none of the other people have,” she said.
“You just have that Johnny swag. I said it last week. Australia is falling in love with you,” the Spice Girls star continued.
Johnny Ruffo (photo) lost his battle with brain cancer on Friday at the age of 35
‘Every girl clearly falls in love with you. And I wouldn’t be surprised if you win this thing. You have something special brother’.
The crowd went wild as the shirtless singer, who had a towel draped over his shoulders, plugged his ears to drown out the screams.
Judge Ronan Keating joked: “I hope you go all the way, mate. It’s Johnny’s world, we’re just living in it’.
Ruffo finished second in the competition, coming second to eventual winner Reece Mastin.
A touching moment seen by the former Home and Away star during his days as an X Factor finalist (pictured) has resurfaced in the aftermath of the tragedy
In the 2011 clip, Johnny wins over judge Mel B, who had previously voted against him, after his performance of Tonight Tonight by Hot Chelle Rae
“You just have that Johnny swag. I said it last week. Australia is falling in love with you,” the Spice Girls star said
The heartbreaking news of Ruffo’s death was announced on his Instagram page on Friday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we had to say goodbye to our beloved Johnny today,” the statement said.
“Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny passed away peacefully with the support of some incredible nurses and doctors.
‘He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and strong-willed. He fought to the end and 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 in peace.’
The heartbreaking news of Ruffo’s death was announced on his Instagram page on Friday
He was first diagnosed in 2017 and underwent life-saving surgery to successfully remove a seven centimeter tumor at the time.
Born in the Perth suburb of Balcatta, Ruffo’s show business career began when he successfully auditioned for the third season of The X Factor Australia in 2011.
A music career followed, with Ruffo releasing several hit singles, including On Top and Take It Home.
But he is perhaps best known for his role as fan favorite Chris Harrington on Home and Away between 2013 and 2016.
He also appeared in that show’s soap rival Neighbors in 2020.