To honour one of its entertainment icons, Channel Seven will air a special episode of Spotlight.
Titled Remembering Johnny Ruffo, the emotional one-hour program at 7.30pm on Tuesday will pay tribute to the talented performer who touched so many lives.
The Balcatta concreter rose to fame on The X Factor before taking out the 2012 Dancing with the Stars and kickstarting his acting career on Home and Away.
On Friday, at just 35, Ruffo lost his inspirational fight against brain cancer with his girlfriend Tahnee Sims and his family by his side.
On Monday afternoon, Ruffo’s family took to his personal Instagram to share that a memorial service will be held on November 25 in Perth, with more details to follow.
The star’s world was turned upside down in 2017 when he revealed he had been diagnosed with brain cancer and had undergone surgery to remove a tumour.
Two years later, in 2019, he revealed his cancer was in remission.
But the good news was short-lived. In November 2020, the high-voltage performer shared the devastating news that his brain cancer had returned.
Ruffo shared his roller-coaster journey on 7NEWS Spotlight in 2021, allowing Denham Hitchcock and the team in on his private and tumultuous health battle.
Aptly named ‘Fight Of His Life’, the episode highlighted critical moments in Ruffo’s relapse.
Despite the heartache, the program also touched on happier times, including the beautiful love story the star shared with his girlfriend and biggest supporter, Tahnee.
The loved-up duo met at a dance studio in 2015, and their relationship quickly blossomed into a fierce, passionate and enduring bond, standing the test of time as Ruffo faced the fight of his life.
The Perth-born singer and actor was hailed a “charismatic performer” by the Seven Network, who shared a statement to social media after his tragic passing.
“The passing of Johnny Ruffo deeply saddens seven. The talented and charismatic performer was born to entertain and brought joy to the lives of so many on and off the screen,” the statement read.
“His infectious energy and big heart will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him. We pass on our heartfelt condolences to Johnny’s partner, family and friends.
“Following his breakout appearance on the 2011 season of The X Factor, Johnny went on to win the 2012 season of Dancing With The Stars, before becoming a beloved member of the Home and Away family for three and a half years in the role of Chris Harrington.”
7NEWS Spotlight: Remembering Johnny Ruffo airs tonight at 7.30pm on Channel 7 and 7Plus.