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No Finish Line
Johnny Ruffo came to Australia's attention when he entered The X Factor in 2011. A concreter with a cheeky smile and long-held passion for music, he won millions of hearts and eventually placed third. Sony Music rushed to sign him up and he was offered a guest spot on Australia's favourite soap, Home and Away, which turned into a three-year role. But the sudden rise to fame took its toll. Johnny found it hard to resist the weekend-long parties, drugs, alcohol and fair-weather friends that came with the territory. He had started suffering from severe headaches when his girlfriend, Tahnee, noticed something was also wrong with his speech. Johnny was rushed to hospital, where doctors prepped him for immediate surgery to deal with a 7-centimetre-long tumour. Johnny was ultimately diagnosed with a rare brain cancer, with which - despite a period of remission - he still battles today. But in a strange way Johnny thinks the cancer actually saved his life ...
- GenresNonfictionMemoir
231 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2022
24 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Johnny Ruffo
1 book5 followersJohn Patrick Ruffo (8 March 1988 – 10 November 2023) was an Australian singer, songwriter, dancer, actor and television presenter notable for being a finalist on the third season of The X Factor Australia in 2011. He was the last contestant eliminated in the competition and subsequently signed a recording contract with Sony Music Australia. In 2012, Ruffo won the twelfth season of Dancing with the Stars Australia. His debut single "On Top", released in June 2012, peaked at number 14 on the ARIA Singles Chart and was certified platinum. Ruffo starred in the Australian soap opera Home and Away as Chris Harrington for three years from 2013 to 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 23, 2022
Johnny Ruffo was 29 when diagnosed with brain cancer. From humble beginnings, to success with The X Factor, Dancing with the Stars and Home and Away, Johnny has worked and fought hard throughout life. This is his story.
It’s immediately clear that Johnny is a born storyteller. It’s also apparent that beyond being a touching, inspiring read, with excellent pacing, it’s laugh-out-loud funny and down to earth. The conversational tone and larrikinism made it feel like I was sitting down with a mate. With Johnny the same age, aspects were relatable, especially growing up in 90s Australia. I particularly loved reading of Johnny’s first gig at his Auntie’s lawn bowls club.
“I made my way back to the crowd who were all enjoying their alternated servings of rhubarb and sticky date puddings. Little did they know, I was about to give them something to really salivate over.”
No Finish Line is impossible to put down, much like those $10 beef gravy rolls at the bowls club – I mean, $5 for seconds? The only other place you can find that kind of value is in the pages of this book. I enjoyed learning of Johnny’s lifelong passion for music. If this book was solely about hard work and determination to succeed in the music industry, it would still be an inspiring read. He displays admirable honesty and isn’t afraid to own mistakes or explore the darker moments of life, yet that endearing optimism and sense of humour are never too far away.
“Throughout my entire life, I’ve always wanted to make people feel happy. I thought I would do this through music, dancing and acting, but my cancer showed me I can make people happy with my smile, my humour, my fight and my outlook.”
The extent of Johnny’s charity work was quite touching, and his insights as someone battling cancer were eye-opening. I couldn’t help but feel gut-punched during medical updates.
“I was wheeled into the operating room where a team of surgeons and nurses spent nearly 10 hours cutting a tumour the size of a tennis ball out of my head.”
No Finish Line is as much a book on how to live life to the fullest as anything else. It seems Johnny has always taken life by the scruff of the neck; in much the same way he fights brain cancer. I enjoyed living vicariously through Johnny’s travels, and found his relationship with his partner, Tahnee, incredibly sweet.
Johnny’s story is one that will stay with me. No Finish Line is equal parts inspiring, heartbreaking and hilarious. It not only tells the remarkable story of a larrikin Aussie concreter who hit the big time, but the story of all those facing similar health battles, particularly brain cancer.
Thank you for sharing your story, Johnny. We’re here for you mate.
“Life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone. Unless you’re chatting with a potential employer. That would be awkward.”
Many thanks to Echo Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It’s immediately clear that Johnny is a born storyteller. It’s also apparent that beyond being a touching, inspiring read, with excellent pacing, it’s laugh-out-loud funny and down to earth. The conversational tone and larrikinism made it feel like I was sitting down with a mate. With Johnny the same age, aspects were relatable, especially growing up in 90s Australia. I particularly loved reading of Johnny’s first gig at his Auntie’s lawn bowls club.
“I made my way back to the crowd who were all enjoying their alternated servings of rhubarb and sticky date puddings. Little did they know, I was about to give them something to really salivate over.”
No Finish Line is impossible to put down, much like those $10 beef gravy rolls at the bowls club – I mean, $5 for seconds? The only other place you can find that kind of value is in the pages of this book. I enjoyed learning of Johnny’s lifelong passion for music. If this book was solely about hard work and determination to succeed in the music industry, it would still be an inspiring read. He displays admirable honesty and isn’t afraid to own mistakes or explore the darker moments of life, yet that endearing optimism and sense of humour are never too far away.
“Throughout my entire life, I’ve always wanted to make people feel happy. I thought I would do this through music, dancing and acting, but my cancer showed me I can make people happy with my smile, my humour, my fight and my outlook.”
The extent of Johnny’s charity work was quite touching, and his insights as someone battling cancer were eye-opening. I couldn’t help but feel gut-punched during medical updates.
“I was wheeled into the operating room where a team of surgeons and nurses spent nearly 10 hours cutting a tumour the size of a tennis ball out of my head.”
No Finish Line is as much a book on how to live life to the fullest as anything else. It seems Johnny has always taken life by the scruff of the neck; in much the same way he fights brain cancer. I enjoyed living vicariously through Johnny’s travels, and found his relationship with his partner, Tahnee, incredibly sweet.
Johnny’s story is one that will stay with me. No Finish Line is equal parts inspiring, heartbreaking and hilarious. It not only tells the remarkable story of a larrikin Aussie concreter who hit the big time, but the story of all those facing similar health battles, particularly brain cancer.
Thank you for sharing your story, Johnny. We’re here for you mate.
“Life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone. Unless you’re chatting with a potential employer. That would be awkward.”
Many thanks to Echo Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2022
Johnny Ruffo is incredible young man and this is his journey and what journey it has been for him. This story takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster, but one that needs to be read. Unfortunately from to time we all take life for granted, but life is short and we all need to enjoy life and love those who are close to us. Highly recommended.
September 4, 2022
“… every second of the day is a Goddamn blessing, and if you don't show up in mind body and spirit you're doing it wrong.”
Johnny Ruffo’s memoir was my flying companion this weekend, gifted from @echopublishing. Johnny rose to fame in the Australian music scene after his stint on the XFactor, which also led him to an acting career on Home and Away and Neighbours. From his humble beginnings as a tradie, Johnny enjoyed the glitz and glamour, parties and fun that many celebrities experience. Yet it was a number of severe headaches and a concerned girlfriend that rushed into hospital when he found out that he had a large tumour sitting in his brain which led to the ultimate diagnosis of a rare form of brain cancer.
In this memoir, Johnny is quite frank and open about all the experiences he has at hospital, in remission dealing with all the consequences from surgeries, medication and his diagnoses. There are a lot of quirky humourous moments that seemed to lighten the darkness and sadness. He seems to have a very positive outlook and find happiness and laughter for others. He cherishes every moment with his girlfriend and family. You can tell he loves them all so very much, and he cares about others more than himself. I cannot imagine what it would be like to live with a terminal illness, but it is very clear through Johnny’s writing that he embraces every day he has, and his energy is devoted to helping as many people as he can, as well as living the happiest life he can have. It sounds so simple: appreciating these things in life is really all that matters.
“At the end of the day it doesn't matter what you have (a fancy house, the love of your life or a cancer diagnosis), it matters who you are as a person.”
Johnny Ruffo’s memoir was my flying companion this weekend, gifted from @echopublishing. Johnny rose to fame in the Australian music scene after his stint on the XFactor, which also led him to an acting career on Home and Away and Neighbours. From his humble beginnings as a tradie, Johnny enjoyed the glitz and glamour, parties and fun that many celebrities experience. Yet it was a number of severe headaches and a concerned girlfriend that rushed into hospital when he found out that he had a large tumour sitting in his brain which led to the ultimate diagnosis of a rare form of brain cancer.
In this memoir, Johnny is quite frank and open about all the experiences he has at hospital, in remission dealing with all the consequences from surgeries, medication and his diagnoses. There are a lot of quirky humourous moments that seemed to lighten the darkness and sadness. He seems to have a very positive outlook and find happiness and laughter for others. He cherishes every moment with his girlfriend and family. You can tell he loves them all so very much, and he cares about others more than himself. I cannot imagine what it would be like to live with a terminal illness, but it is very clear through Johnny’s writing that he embraces every day he has, and his energy is devoted to helping as many people as he can, as well as living the happiest life he can have. It sounds so simple: appreciating these things in life is really all that matters.
“At the end of the day it doesn't matter what you have (a fancy house, the love of your life or a cancer diagnosis), it matters who you are as a person.”
October 19, 2022
Like many Aussies, I was first introduced to Johnny Ruffo when he appeared on the 2011 series of The X Factor. Quickly winning over the judges and the country, Johnny quickly became a household name. Despite placing third in the competition, Johnny walked away with a record deal and soon started appearing on iconic television shows. Who can remember his triumph by winning the coveted mirrorball trophy in the 2012 series of Dancing With the Stars?
In his memoir, Johnny reflects on his personal life and career thus far. From his humble beginnings as an amateur entertainer after a quick buck to his most recent battle with brain cancer, Johnny has provided an entertaining, honest, inspiring and positive read.
It was a pleasure to spend time with Johnny- as a fan I've been looking forward to No Finish Line. As you continue your fight Johnny, let's just say that I'm with the rest of Australia by saying:
"𝗪𝗲'𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂"
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
In his memoir, Johnny reflects on his personal life and career thus far. From his humble beginnings as an amateur entertainer after a quick buck to his most recent battle with brain cancer, Johnny has provided an entertaining, honest, inspiring and positive read.
It was a pleasure to spend time with Johnny- as a fan I've been looking forward to No Finish Line. As you continue your fight Johnny, let's just say that I'm with the rest of Australia by saying:
"𝗪𝗲'𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂"
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
April 29, 2024
This was a hard one to read. Johnny Ruffo, much loved Aussie star who started on Xfactor and made his way to home & away and neighbours but also did lot of work with charities like Starlight for kids, The cure brain cancer foundation, Carrie's beanies 4 brain cancer and more.
Throughout the book you can see the humour and passion he has for music. The way he always knew what he wanted and how he tried his best to get there. He wasn't spared from mental illness just because he was successful in his life, going on to quote
"Doesn't matter where you grew up, what school you went to or what your interests are - we are asking vulnerable to depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses"
I loved how honest he was about his struggles with other jobs, relationships, mental health and drugs/alcohol.
When he got to talking about his cancer diagnosis and his battle from there on, it was hard not to have a tear. It hits a little raw after losing my pop end of 2022, to lung cancer. And also an uncle the same year, and friends/family who have been diagnosed since. While it is very different in many ways, the pure emotion he described I imagine most cancer patients would feel at some point.
Despite his battles he still produced his songs, and travelled with his girlfriend trying to live in the moment.
"True suffering and fear of loss allows you to live a deeper life"
One thing he said that stuck was about how he got messages saying "stay strong" "keep fighting" etc but the ones he appreciated the most were "I'm here for you." Sometimes you never know what to say and fear of saying the wrong thing can leave you saying nothing. But all he (as i imagine others) needed was to know he had people there for him 🤍
He ends the book with the quote "life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone"
Throughout the book you can see the humour and passion he has for music. The way he always knew what he wanted and how he tried his best to get there. He wasn't spared from mental illness just because he was successful in his life, going on to quote
"Doesn't matter where you grew up, what school you went to or what your interests are - we are asking vulnerable to depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses"
I loved how honest he was about his struggles with other jobs, relationships, mental health and drugs/alcohol.
When he got to talking about his cancer diagnosis and his battle from there on, it was hard not to have a tear. It hits a little raw after losing my pop end of 2022, to lung cancer. And also an uncle the same year, and friends/family who have been diagnosed since. While it is very different in many ways, the pure emotion he described I imagine most cancer patients would feel at some point.
Despite his battles he still produced his songs, and travelled with his girlfriend trying to live in the moment.
"True suffering and fear of loss allows you to live a deeper life"
One thing he said that stuck was about how he got messages saying "stay strong" "keep fighting" etc but the ones he appreciated the most were "I'm here for you." Sometimes you never know what to say and fear of saying the wrong thing can leave you saying nothing. But all he (as i imagine others) needed was to know he had people there for him 🤍
He ends the book with the quote "life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone"
January 8, 2024
First biography that I've ever finished reading lots of laughter and smiles and tears johnny ruffo was such a beautiful person so sad that he is gone rest in peace beautiful man
January 16, 2023
I never realised how much Johnny Ruffo had been through before watching him on X Factor. While he was not my favourite on the show (Reece girl at the time!), I admired his work ethic and how hard he tried. Johnny improved week in and week out. Seeing him on Home and Away as well, established him as the fun and talented Australian guy. However, reading about his cancer and his own way of dealing with everything, made me realise how strong, inspiring and brave Johnny is.
November 28, 2023
He writes so well I was gripped by his story and inspired by his outlook on life
January 7, 2023
I rarely leave reviews but I want to say my heart goes out to Johnny and his family. The way he is handling his fight with Cancer is truly inspirational.
“I am here for you” and so is everyone else. Much love to your mum, brother, Tahnee and Nonna.
It takes a very special person to cope the way you are coping xx
“I am here for you” and so is everyone else. Much love to your mum, brother, Tahnee and Nonna.
It takes a very special person to cope the way you are coping xx
July 31, 2024
I adored this book not just because I have a personal interest in his brain cancer journey. It was funny, real and humbling. It is such a beautiful legacy to leave for his short life.
November 14, 2023
I have to give this 5 Stars because it’s his story. I’m so sad that you’re gone now and it took me so long to pick up your book and read it. You’ll be forever missed. RIP Johnny ❤️😭
September 27, 2022
For someone who has gone through the battle of brain cancer. I really read this book to read about another persons thoughts and feelings whilst going through the battle. Johnny was so bloody honest and didn’t leave anything out in his story. For the rollercoaster ride that is brain cancer, this book is exactly that as well!
December 31, 2023
Thoughts: Johnny’s memoir has been on my TBR since it was released in August 2022. When I heard the news of his passing, I was shattered and knew it was time to finally read his memoir. I have had the privilege of meeting Johnny on several occasions as a fan at signings and telethons. Throughout my time supporting Johnny since 2011, I have made many wonderful friendships and memories. Johnny’s memoir reflects on his personal life and career. It was hard to put down, being so raw and heartbreaking. It contained numerous humorous moments that reminded me of Johnny's cheeky and funny side.
Synopsis: Johnny Ruffo came to Australia's attention when he entered The X Factor in 2011. A concreter with a cheeky smile and long-held passion for music, he won millions of hearts and eventually placed third. Sony Music rushed to sign him up and he was offered a guest spot on Australia's favourite soap, Home and Away, which turned into a three-year role. But the sudden rise to fame took its toll. Johnny found it hard to resist the weekend-long parties, drugs, alcohol and fair-weather friends that came with the territory. He had started suffering from severe headaches when his girlfriend, Tahnee, noticed something was also wrong with his speech. Johnny was rushed to hospital, where doctors prepped him for immediate surgery to deal with a 7-centimetre-long tumour. Johnny was ultimately diagnosed with a rare brain cancer, with which - despite a period of remission - he still battles today. But in a strange way Johnny thinks the cancer actually saved his life.
Book Info:
Genre: Nonfiction & Memoir
Pages: 173
Average Rating: 4.55
Rest Easy Johnny
🤍 1988 - 2023 🤍
Please check trigger warnings before reading this book.
★★★★★
----------------------------
Full book reviews on Instagram, TikTok, Goodreads & Storygraph (@readwithbec_)
Synopsis: Johnny Ruffo came to Australia's attention when he entered The X Factor in 2011. A concreter with a cheeky smile and long-held passion for music, he won millions of hearts and eventually placed third. Sony Music rushed to sign him up and he was offered a guest spot on Australia's favourite soap, Home and Away, which turned into a three-year role. But the sudden rise to fame took its toll. Johnny found it hard to resist the weekend-long parties, drugs, alcohol and fair-weather friends that came with the territory. He had started suffering from severe headaches when his girlfriend, Tahnee, noticed something was also wrong with his speech. Johnny was rushed to hospital, where doctors prepped him for immediate surgery to deal with a 7-centimetre-long tumour. Johnny was ultimately diagnosed with a rare brain cancer, with which - despite a period of remission - he still battles today. But in a strange way Johnny thinks the cancer actually saved his life.
Book Info:
Genre: Nonfiction & Memoir
Pages: 173
Average Rating: 4.55
Rest Easy Johnny
🤍 1988 - 2023 🤍
Please check trigger warnings before reading this book.
★★★★★
----------------------------
Full book reviews on Instagram, TikTok, Goodreads & Storygraph (@readwithbec_)
November 10, 2022
Beautiful, funny, sad. Johnny Ruffo is an incredible human being
Read
August 16, 2025’Cancer does not discriminate and I'm just one of way too many to have to share these thoughts and feelings.
I am grateful for the care I've received, the support I've been able to lean on, the people I've met and the outlook on life I've gained.
Life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone. Unless you're chatting with a potential employer. That would be awkward’.
✨no stars✨
⚠️TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU READ THIS BOOK/REVIEW: anxiety, depression, attempted suicide, self harm, intrusive thoughts, terminal illness, medical episodes⚠️
Wow… that was a rollercoaster and a half.
I mainly knew of Johnny Ruffo based on his time on Home and Away as an avid watcher back in 2012 and 2013.
When the news came out that he had brain cancer, while I thought it was terrible, it didn’t affect me.
After hearing he had passed back in 2023, I was sad for him and his family because he was so young.
Then one day, as I was looking in a Big W book clearance section, I saw Ruffo’s name pop up. Seeing that it was half price, it magically grew legs and jumped into my bag as I scanned it through.
It had been sitting on the shelf for the past couple of years… until now.
Going into this, I knew that this would be about his journey through music, acting, and eventually his cancer diagnosis. But nothing could’ve prepared me for the emotions I was going to feel whilst reading them.
One positive thing I liked was how candid he was. Reading this, I felt like Johnny was right beside me, narrating along and having a conversation with him. Ruffo is quite a straight shooter and doesn’t beat around the bush to get to a point. He also manages to see the positive in every person he mentions and in every shit situation he has been in.
Although, I think some stories could’ve been worded differently or left out completely. Such as when he accidentally flashed his Home and Away costars or cheating in his previous relationships before meeting the love of his life, Tahnee.
Prior to reading the second half, I would’ve easily given this a 4.5 star rating.
But as we go into finding out he has brain cancer and his battle with it, whilst I haven’t got cancer, I’ve watched people in my personal life go through their own battles and lost them in the process. It brought out so many heavy emotions within me.
Overall, aside from some crude language, this was a sad but an inspiring read! I’m not too sure if my thoughts make too much sense (I may edit this later) but I would definitely recommend. Just make sure you check the trigger warnings before going into it 🌻✨
I am grateful for the care I've received, the support I've been able to lean on, the people I've met and the outlook on life I've gained.
Life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone. Unless you're chatting with a potential employer. That would be awkward’.
✨no stars✨
⚠️TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU READ THIS BOOK/REVIEW: anxiety, depression, attempted suicide, self harm, intrusive thoughts, terminal illness, medical episodes⚠️
Wow… that was a rollercoaster and a half.
I mainly knew of Johnny Ruffo based on his time on Home and Away as an avid watcher back in 2012 and 2013.
When the news came out that he had brain cancer, while I thought it was terrible, it didn’t affect me.
After hearing he had passed back in 2023, I was sad for him and his family because he was so young.
Then one day, as I was looking in a Big W book clearance section, I saw Ruffo’s name pop up. Seeing that it was half price, it magically grew legs and jumped into my bag as I scanned it through.
It had been sitting on the shelf for the past couple of years… until now.
Going into this, I knew that this would be about his journey through music, acting, and eventually his cancer diagnosis. But nothing could’ve prepared me for the emotions I was going to feel whilst reading them.
One positive thing I liked was how candid he was. Reading this, I felt like Johnny was right beside me, narrating along and having a conversation with him. Ruffo is quite a straight shooter and doesn’t beat around the bush to get to a point. He also manages to see the positive in every person he mentions and in every shit situation he has been in.
Although, I think some stories could’ve been worded differently or left out completely. Such as when he accidentally flashed his Home and Away costars or cheating in his previous relationships before meeting the love of his life, Tahnee.
Prior to reading the second half, I would’ve easily given this a 4.5 star rating.
But as we go into finding out he has brain cancer and his battle with it, whilst I haven’t got cancer, I’ve watched people in my personal life go through their own battles and lost them in the process. It brought out so many heavy emotions within me.
Overall, aside from some crude language, this was a sad but an inspiring read! I’m not too sure if my thoughts make too much sense (I may edit this later) but I would definitely recommend. Just make sure you check the trigger warnings before going into it 🌻✨
January 5, 2024
I was compelled to read this memoir after the passing ofJohnny Ruffo only recently. His death was a little close to home as I am a teacher at the primary school he attended when young. Not that I was there when he was, but he has left a legacy in the suburb of his family home.
I wasn’t watching free tv when Ruffo first found his fame on X-Factor, followed by his songs on the music charts, his roles on Home and Away and Neighbours, and his performance on Dancing With the Stars. Ruffo became a household name across Australia, winning everyone over with his talent, good looks and charm. Looking back at YouTube videos now I can see the appeal.
Surprisingly, this memoir brings to light the dark side of Ruffo that many may not know existed. While trying to find his feet in the music industry, he made a series of choices in his work and relationships that lead him to drinking and unreliability, creating an overwhelming sense of shame and failure within himself. Twice he attempted to take his life, much to his family’s shock. To add a further twist to his path in life, and which is now well-known, Ruffo suffered terrible headaches and paralysis, eventuating in the discovery of a rare type of brain cancer. 95% of the tumour was removed, and he underwent bouts of chemo and radiation to eliminate the 5% that was too difficult to remove during surgery. He did manage to go into remission for a time, with the treatments making him irritated, aggressive and prone to overeating. When writing of this time Ruffo has an abundance of good things to say about his girlfriend Tahnee who first helped him to hospital and supported him from the beginning of his cancer to the end. Ruffo wrote this book knowing his cancer was terminal but wanted to share how he eventually found peace with it. I was surprised and saddened to learn there was such a tortured soul behind that happy face and sense of humour. But in true entertainer form, Ruffo’s memoir is full of jokes and asides that remind us of his loveable larrikin nature.
It’s sad to lose such a talent so early in his life, but Ruffo will be remembered with fondness throughout Australia for the impact he had in that short time. He will be missed.
I wasn’t watching free tv when Ruffo first found his fame on X-Factor, followed by his songs on the music charts, his roles on Home and Away and Neighbours, and his performance on Dancing With the Stars. Ruffo became a household name across Australia, winning everyone over with his talent, good looks and charm. Looking back at YouTube videos now I can see the appeal.
Surprisingly, this memoir brings to light the dark side of Ruffo that many may not know existed. While trying to find his feet in the music industry, he made a series of choices in his work and relationships that lead him to drinking and unreliability, creating an overwhelming sense of shame and failure within himself. Twice he attempted to take his life, much to his family’s shock. To add a further twist to his path in life, and which is now well-known, Ruffo suffered terrible headaches and paralysis, eventuating in the discovery of a rare type of brain cancer. 95% of the tumour was removed, and he underwent bouts of chemo and radiation to eliminate the 5% that was too difficult to remove during surgery. He did manage to go into remission for a time, with the treatments making him irritated, aggressive and prone to overeating. When writing of this time Ruffo has an abundance of good things to say about his girlfriend Tahnee who first helped him to hospital and supported him from the beginning of his cancer to the end. Ruffo wrote this book knowing his cancer was terminal but wanted to share how he eventually found peace with it. I was surprised and saddened to learn there was such a tortured soul behind that happy face and sense of humour. But in true entertainer form, Ruffo’s memoir is full of jokes and asides that remind us of his loveable larrikin nature.
It’s sad to lose such a talent so early in his life, but Ruffo will be remembered with fondness throughout Australia for the impact he had in that short time. He will be missed.
November 12, 2024
After reading his book around his 1st Anniversary a year on since he passed. He fought a battle through the prime of his life. After seeing him in interviews throughout his time with Brain Cancer. He left a legacy of music, programs I have enjoyed watching and seeing him in Home and Away he grew as actor and his 6 weeks on Neighbours and no matter what he wanted to achieve he did it. Even if their wasn't a finish line as his life was cut short he made peace with that. I commend him for sharing his life story. Thank you Johnny for your music, the laughs and it was truly humbling to read through your life story. Rest in Peace Johnny Ruffo.
May 27, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this bio by Johnny Ruffo. As I was reading the book, I felt like Johnny was sitting at my kitchen table, with a beer and a bowl of chips, chatting about his life. I loved that style of writing. He has achieved so much in his short life and continues to battle everyday, but with the right attitude, a wonderful girlfriend, family, and fabulous friends around him, he will conquer all - I have no doubt. All the very best Johnny - you deserve it!
March 12, 2023
What a wonderfully raw, real and inspiring memoir about the golden boy of song and stage- the impeccably talented Johnny Ruffo. This man is living proof of the determination to stay strong and resilient in the face of illness and adversity. A must read for all adults.
May 9, 2023
What an emotional story. I remember Johnny from his X factor and Home and Away days. When faced with his diagnosis, Johnny demonstrates so much courage and determination. The amount of support and love Johnny’s partner Tahnee gives him is truly humbling. A must read!
April 7, 2024
Such a beautifully written biography about a beautiful man. Some laughter and tears during some passages. Really hit home for me. Cancer is such a horrible disease. R.I.P. mate my thoughts will stay with Tahnee, and all your family, you were taken way too young.
February 22, 2025
I knew of Johnny but wasn’t fully aware of his story prior to reading the book. So I found this really interesting and so easy to read because it was written just as he would have been speaking about it. I didn’t want to put it down.
October 17, 2022
Johnny has written
December 18, 2022
Love Johnny, Loved the book 📖
February 27, 2023
Good read. Funny and sad.
April 2, 2023
Couldn’t put it down!
December 11, 2023
Absolutely amazing human. Great read. What a beautiful guardian angel he had in Tahnee. That I'd true love. Rest In Peace John
April 6, 2025
so heart warming , alot of tears , worth reading
June 10, 2024
Beautiful read. The only part I didn't like was the ending ���� which happened after the book was published. You're an amazing human Johnny. Thanks for sharing your heartfelt story.
"Life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone. Unless they're your employer, that would be awkward".
"Life is a gift, so make sure you hug often, express your gratitude daily and never forget to say I love you when you hang up the phone. Unless they're your employer, that would be awkward".
November 18, 2022
If you are considering read this book do it right now! Honestly its one of the best books I've read this year. It feels like your having a conversation with him him many ways. He does talk about his cancer journey as well. The book is very inspiring. I cannot say enough praises for this book it was so well written.
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