Australian rock legend Jon English has died at the age of 66 following complications from surgery for an aortic aneurysm. The UK-born performer's music label, Ambition Music Group, confirmed his death in a statement on Thursday.
“It is with great sadness that we commemorate the passing of Jon English,” the statement said. “Jon died peacefully last night, aged 66. The cause of death was post-operative complications.” He was surrounded by his four children, wife Carmen, and other close family members.
English, known for his breakthrough stage role in Jesus Christ Superstar, was due to tour Australia from May starting in Perth, but had cancelled several shows earlier in the week due to “unexpected ill health”. He was hospitalised for broken ribs when the aneurysm was discovered.
Many paid tribute on social media, including Labor leader Bill Shorten, who noted that “with the passing of Ross Hannaford and now Jon English, this has been a very tough 48 hours for Australian music”. English won the 1979 Logie award for best new talent and four ARIA awards during his career.
