Aussie music legend John Farnham’s sons, James and Rob, have said cancer research played a vital role in saving their father during his battle with throat cancer in 2022.
The 76-year-old underwent a gruelling 12-hour surgery that year, during which doctors removed a tumour from his mouth and reconstructed his jaw.
He has since been given the all-clear.
Appearing on Sunrise on August 21st 2025, James and Rob shared a positive update on their beloved father’s health.
“He is doing good,” Rob told hosts Nat Barr and Matt “Shirvo” Shirvington.
“You know, it’s like anyone, you go through such a dramatic surgery, particularly on your face, it is going to affect you. I think he’s resilient. He’s strong.”
James added, “He’s sticking to his regimen. My mum (Jillian) makes sure he’s doing all the right things.”
The brothers also joked that Farnham’s stubborn streak worked in his favour during recovery.
Both James and Rob are lending their support to Daffodil Day, raising money for people living with cancer.
They said the cause means a great deal to their dad.
“Daffodil Day is quite important to our dad,” James said.
“He basically wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for research and funds from events like Daffodil Day.
“So, yeah, things like this are very important. The cancer research that they do is really, really, really important to survival rates.”
“It’s a huge thing for us and a lot of people. Daffodil Day and the Cancer Council in general does so much to support families the research.” Rob added.
Since his diagnosis, Farnham has kept a low profile, though he made a rare public appearance in February when he celebrated wife Jillian’s 70th birthday at Melbourne’s Florentino restaurant.
James also spoke about his dad’s joy at becoming a grandfather for the first time. He and his partner, Dr Tessa Effendi, welcomed a son, Jett John Farnham, in July.
Rather than “grandpa,” James revealed the singer has embraced a simpler title.
“He’s called ‘Pa’. That’s what I call him,” James said.
“He likes ‘Pa’. Jett can’t say it yet but hopefully will soon.
“Dad is loving it, been hands on, (it’s) been really nice for everyone.”
Images: Sunrise
