Honouring Dame Olivia Newton-John
British-born Aussie Dame Olivia Newton-John has passed away following a lengthy battle with breast cancer aged 73.
A message posted to the acclaimed singer and actress’ official social media platforms from her husband, John Easterling, broke the news that Newton-John “passed away peacefully” at her California ranch surrounded by family and friends.
Easterling described his wife as a “symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer”.
“Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer,” his message read.
Newton-John, known for her role as Sandy in Grease, is survived by her husband, daughter Chloe Lattanzi - who she shares with ex-husband Matt Lattanzi - as well as her siblings Sarah and Toby, and her nieces and nephews.
The family has asked that their privacy be respected at this time and that those wishing to express their sympathies donate to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation in lieu of sending flowers.
Following her first bout of breast cancer in 1992, the Physical singer became an advocate and established the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in her hometown of Melbourne.
She was honoured for her services to charity, cancer research and entertainment in 2019, when she was made a dame in the Queen’s New Year honours list.
"I am extremely excited, honoured and grateful beyond words to be included with such an esteemed group of women who have received this distinguished award before me,” she said at the time.
"As a girl born in Cambridge, I am very proud of my British ancestry and so appreciative to be recognised in this way by the United Kingdom."
Image: @therealonj (Instagram)