“I had to come back”: Olivia Newton-John’s emotional return to Australia
Everyone loves Olivia Newton-John.
Since she began her music career in the ‘60s, the Aussie legend has garnered fame all over the world because of her personality, achievements and support for those in need.
Six decades later, she’s not planning to stop anytime soon.
Instead, the 71-year-old wants to use her platform to help others “any way I can”.
The singer-songwriter has backed several charities and is the founding patron of the Oliva Newton-John Cancer Institute. And soon, she will step up once again to perform at Fire Fight Australia, a national concert appeal to help those suffering as a result of the recent national bushfire crisis.
“I’m pretty much retired, but when I heard they were doing this, I had to be part of it,” Oliva told TV WEEK.
“It’s so important, and I feel privileged that I’m able to help in some way. Australians are tough. We have a wonderful sense of spirit and humour, and those things will get us through.”
Olivia will be joining her friend John Farnham at the concert, which has given her an excuse to return home. Currently, she and her husband John Easterling divide their time between California, Florida and Australia.
“It [the bushfires’ devastation] has had an impact on a global scale and it breaks my heart,” she says. “I had to come back and be part of it [the concert].”
She will also be cheering from the sidelines as her daughter Chloe Lattanzi is currently competing on Dancing With The Stars.
“I encouraged her to just be herself,” said Olivia.
“She’s in her own dancing shoes and they’re beautiful – she’ll do great.”