Ruffo, who gained fame as a finalist on the third season of The X Factor Australia in 2011, captivated audiences with his exceptional performances and infectious charisma.
Born on March 8, 1988, in Balcatta, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia, Ruffo discovered his passion for music at a young age, inspired by his idol, Michael Jackson. He honed his skills as a self-taught musician, mastering the guitar and piano, and wrote his first song at the age of 14. Ruffo attended Balcatta Senior High School and worked as a concreter, following in his father’s footsteps.
In 2011, Ruffo auditioned for The X Factor Australia, impressing the judges with his rendition of Jay Sean’s “Do You Remember.” He made it to the live shows and was mentored by Guy Sebastian. Although he was the last contestant eliminated in the competition, Ruffo’s talent caught the attention of Sony Music Australia, and he signed a recording contract with the label.
His debut single, “On Top,” was released in June 2012 and reached number 14 on the ARIA Singles Chart, achieving platinum certification. Ruffo’s musical success continued with his participation and victory in the twelfth season of Dancing with the Stars Australia in 2012, showcasing his dancing abilities to a wider audience.
Ruffo further displayed his versatility as an entertainer by venturing into acting. From 2013 to 2016, he portrayed the character Chris Harrington in the popular Australian soap opera Home and Away, winning the hearts of viewers with his portrayal.
In 2017, Ruffo faced a challenging battle with brain cancer, undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumor. Throughout his health struggles, he remained resilient and continued to create and share his music, releasing singles such as “Broken Glass” and “Let’s Get Lost.”
On November 10, 2023, John Patrick Ruffo passed away, leaving behind a legacy of talent and inspiration. His contributions to the Australian entertainment industry will be remembered, and his music will continue to resonate with fans around the world. Ruffo’s enduring spirit and determination serve as a reminder of the power of pursuing one’s dreams and facing life’s challenges with courage and grace.
