"He's not dead!" Logies tribute to John Farnham divides viewers
A tribute to John Farnham at the 2024 TV Week Logies has divided audiences, with some saying the performance was a beautiful homage, while others believe it seemed like a eulogy for someone who isn't dead.
On Sunday night, Guy Sebastian and Jessica Mauboy took to the Logies stage for the performance that had everyone on their feet.
They were introduced by David Campbell, who recalled some of Farnham's impressive accolades.
"He sold over six million albums, had a career that spanned 60 years and is one of the best live performers the world has ever seen," Campbell said.
"We want to acknowledge John's wife Jill, his sons, Robert and James, and his close friend, Glenn Wheatley's wife Gaynor and their son, Tim Wheatley. But, most importantly tonight, it's about celebrating you, John. You are an Aussie icon. You are the voice, mate," he added.
Sebastian and Mauboy then belted out You're The Voice with the help of Farnham's own band, as the screens behind them played a video of Farnham singing the song himself.
While the performance was met with a round of applause from the Logies audience, others online found the tribute in poor taste, with many commenting on X that while John has been battling cancer, he hasn't died and the on stage accolades made it appear the star had passed.
"I get John had a doco and had some health issues recently but he hasn't passed away. Also this would be better at the arias you know the music awards of Australia," wrote one viewer on X.
"RIP John Farnham didn't know he passed," joked another, with someone else saying, "OMG FARNSY IS STILL ALIVE. This is not a eulogy."
"Look. I get Farnsy is a national treasure, but he's not dead. Can we please stop acting like he's dead?" someone else posted.
Others were happy with the tribute, with one person writing, "I think it's better to celebrate our amazingly talented icons whilst they're still alive!! We love you John."
"Jessica Mauboy you are the voice!!! That was perfection," wrote another with one more chiming in, "It’s fitting to have Jess and Guy sing a John Farnham tribute."
Image credits: Seven