Johnny Ruffo: X Factor Runner-Up and Home and Away Actor Dies at 35

Johnny Ruffo was an Australian singer, actor and television presenter, best known as a runner-up on The X Factor Australia and for playing Chris Harrington on Home and Away. Born John Patrick Ruffo on March 8, 1988, in Perth, Western Australia, he taught himself guitar and piano and wrote his first song at age 14.

Ruffo finished second on the third season of The X Factor Australia in 2011, mentored by Guy Sebastian. His debut single "On Top" reached No. 14 on the ARIA chart and was certified platinum. He won the twelfth season of Dancing with the Stars in 2012 and played Chris Harrington on Home and Away from 2013 to 2016, earning a Logie nomination for Most Popular New Talent.

Ruffo was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2017, and he spoke candidly about his illness and recovery in his 2022 memoir No Finish Line. He died in Sydney on November 10, 2023, at age 35. Remembered for his positivity and resilience, he was mourned by fans across Australia.

Achievements: Runner-up on The X Factor Australia (2011), his debut single "On Top" went platinum (2012), won Dancing with the Stars (2012), played Chris Harrington on Home and Away (2013-2016).

Birth: March 8, 1988 - Balcatta, Perth, Western Australia.

Profession: Singer, actor and television presenter.

Interesting Facts: His first job was as a concreter. He published a memoir, No Finish Line, in 2022.