Johnny Ruffo’s girfriend Tahnee Sims has shared a poignant tribute to her late partner, 10 days after his death.
Taking to Instagram, Tahnee – who first met and began dating Johnny in 2015 – posted a video montage filled with images and footage of her and Johnny from over the years.
“A forever love,” she captioned the post.
Many commented on Tahnee’s video, sharing their condolences and support.
Lynne McGranger, Johnny’s former Home and Away co-star, wrote, “Darling…. I can’t imagine what you are going through. In our thoughts and prayers. Cannot wait to give you the biggest hug . We all loved Johnny so much but he was your honey and your soul mate and we ache for you.”
Johnny passed away on November 10, aged 35. The actor/singer’s family shared the sad news via Instagram and wrote in a statement:
“It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny.
“Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny went peacefully with the support of some incredible Nurses & Doctors.
“He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and had a strong will. He battled all the way to the end and fought as hard as he could. Such a beautiful soul with so much more to give.
“We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives.
“Rest easy.”
Tributes instantly began pouring in for Johnny underneath the Instagram post.
Georgie Parker, who worked with Johnny on Home and Away, commented on the post confirming Johnny’s passing and wrote, “Sending love to Johnny’s family, friends and loved ones. He was truly one in a million, funny, bright and such a hard worker. It’s ridiculously cruel that he’s no longer here. Rest up now Johnny.”
“Oh darling boy. ❤️ xx Sending love to all who knew and loved you. And there are so many,” Kylie Gillies commented.
Dannii Minogue said, “The cheekiest chap. His voice, smile and dancing feet will be missed by so many. Thinking of his family in this heart breaking time.”
Former Spice Girl Mel B, who was a judge on The X Factor when Johnny first rose to fame as a contestant in 2011, wrote, “My heart just broke.”
Carrie Bickmore – who lost her first husband, Greg Lange, to brain cancer in 2010 – paid her respects live on air during the Carrie and Tommy Show. “Before we get into our regular show, I just wanted to take a moment with the news today that Johnny Ruffo has passed away at the age of 35,” she began.
“I was fortunate enough to get to know Johnny over the years and I really wanted to pay tribute to his incredible life.
“Johnny Ruffo’s bright light shone across our screens and into our hearts,” Carrie continued. “His courage in the face of a terminal brain cancer diagnosis inspired us all. And it was the love for his family that kept his light burning bright.
“His vulnerability in sharing his fears about leaving his girlfriend and incredible support, Tahnee Sims broke our hearts. Johnny shared his journey with us, not for sympathy but to light the way for others in the dark.
“Johnny Ruffo, your legacy will continue to inspire. May you rest in peace, knowing that even at just 35 years of age, you’ve left this world better than you found it.”
Johnny first revealed that he had been diagnosed with brain cancer and had to undergo surgery to remove a brain tumour in 2017. Then, two years later in 2019, he revealed his cancer was in remission.
But sadly, in November 2020, Johnny shared that his brain cancer had returned, and in August 2022, he candidly shared with fans that his cancer was terminal.
