Australians have woken this morning to the sad news of the passing of Dame Olivia Newton-John AC DBE.
Tears are flowing across our nation and right across the world among so many who adored her.
Olivia Newton-John’s mellifluous voice and magnetism on screen made her a truly captivating and beloved actor, singer, songwriter and entertainer.
She will be remembered most for her depictions of Sandy in Grease and Kira in Xanadu; for her chart-topping hits like “I Honestly Love You” and “Physical”. And who can forget the iconic performance of “Dare To Dream” at the Sydney Olympics Opening Ceremony.
Newton-John’s voice is woven throughout country, rock and pop music of the 1970s and 80s and her talent acknowledged by a litany of awards across multiple continents, including four Grammys.
But she was so much more than a star. She was a trailblazer of achievement, talent, and decency.
Olivia Newton-John brightened our lives, but she also saved lives through her staunch advocacy for cancer treatment and research – appropriately embodied in the ongoing work of her eponymous Foundation Fund, Cancer and Wellness Centre and Cancer Research Institute.
Hers was a career of enormous achievement – on stage, on screen, and in advocacy for good causes.
On behalf of the federal coalition, Kirilly and I extend our condolences to Olivia’s family, friends, and her legion of fans – here in Australia and right around the world.
Olivia Newton-John sang “Let Me Be There”. Whilst her star has sadly gone out, for so many of us, she will continue to be there.
9 August 2022