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Sydney Opera House lit up in pink in honour of late Dame Olivia Newton-John following death at 73-Kim Novak-Entertainment – Metro
The touching tribute was in honour of the Grease star.
The Sydney Opera House was illuminated in pink as a tribute to Olivia Newton-John (Picture: EPA)
The sails of the Sydney Opera House have been lit up in pink in honour of the late Dame Olivia Newton-John, who died this week at the age of 73.
The actress, who died following a battle with breast cancer which had metastasised, had first been diagnosed with the disease in 1992 at the age of 44.
She had become an Australian icon both for her acting work, including a star turn as Sandy from Grease, as well as her work campaigning for cancer awareness and research.
The Australian landmark was lit up with pink lights on Tuesday in memory of Newton-John, who died at her ranch in California on Monday.
A black and white photo of the star was also broadcast on Federation Square with a message which read: ‘Fed Square is lit up pink in memory of Olivia Newton-John and to recognise her inspiring life, celebrated career in entertainment and profound contribution to the research and treatment of cancer. Vale Olivia Newton John’.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews added that he would be contacting Newton-John’s family to propose a state funeral for her.
Olivia Newton-John died at the age of 73 this week (Picture: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
Newton-John is an Australian icon (Picture: EPA)
The landmark was lit up in honour of her life and legacy (Picture: ASTON BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)
He added: ‘As for celebrating her life, her music and film and all the other amazing contributions that she made, we would, of course, want to speak to the family and be as respectful as we can.
‘She took her cancer journey and used that to save lives and change lives, and that’s just a deeply impressive thing.
‘The research that’s done [at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre in Melbourne], the treatment, the care, the love and support that is central to that place is a lasting legacy to the person that she was.’
The Grease star had first been diagnosed with cancer in 1992 (Picture: MediaPunch / BACKGRID)
Newton-John’s death was announced by her husband John Easterling, who asked for donations to her cancer centre in lieu of flowers in memory of the star.
He told fans: ‘Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends.
‘We ask that everyone please respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.
‘Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.
‘Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer.’
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