Iconic Australian singer and ’70s pop star shares devastating health news as he undergoes open heart surgery: ‘Ticking time bomb’

Singer Marty Rhone of Australia shared some upsetting news with his fans on Thursday: he’s been recovering from open-heart surgery.

The 77-year-old singer, famous for his 1970s hit ‘Denim and Lace,’ announced his hospitalization on Facebook, posting a photo from his hospital bed.

Marty explained that he had to have emergency surgery because his aorta, the main artery supplying blood throughout the body, had become dangerously enlarged.

Marty started his message by thanking everyone for their supportive comments and well wishes after he mentioned he might be taking a break from social media.

I’m sorry if I seemed distant, but I was unsure about what the future held and had my reasons for being cautious.

For the last three years, I’ve felt like I was constantly on the verge of collapse, all while trying to keep up with the demands of my job.

As someone who keeps a close eye on how people balance their lives, I was really interested to hear what this singer – you might remember his hit ‘Mean Pair of Jeans’ from ’77 – had to say. He shared that he’s been working incredibly hard lately, and honestly, it’s taken a toll on his health. It’s a good reminder that even creative people need to prioritize self-care!

He’d traveled to the US eight times, completed two national tours, and was even producing a third while recovering from COVID twice. Last August, he received some concerning news.

Tests showed that my aorta, the main artery carrying blood throughout the body, had grown to 5 centimeters, which is a critical size.

‘4cm is considered safe. I asked my doc: “What if I wait further?” His words: “Are you a gambler?”‘

Marty said his aorta was at risk of ‘erupting’ or ‘splitting’, which would have been fatal. 

‘If my aorta erupted, even split, it would almost certainly be goodnight and good luck,’ he added.

I knew it would be a difficult operation. It involved seven hours of open-heart surgery to repair the aorta, along with a bypass procedure done at the same time. It was a major undertaking.

The first three days were spent in intensive care as my health improved. It truly felt like I’d been hit by a large truck – it was that impactful.

I expect to get better slowly, but with the help and encouragement of friends like you, I’m confident I’ll make a full recovery and be even stronger than before.

Marty went on to thank his surgeon, cardiologist and their ‘large team’.

‘You gave me the confidence and strength to get through this,’ he finished.

Fans flocked to the comments of the post to wish Marty well in his recovery.

‘Best wishes for your recovery. Thinking of you. Take care Marty,’ one person wrote.

Someone else wrote, “Marty, please focus on getting better after your surgery and keep your spirits up! We’re sending you lots of love and can’t wait to hear you sing again. Sending hugs!”

Someone else wrote, “Wishing you a speedy recovery! Your music and positive attitude are really inspiring, and we appreciate you sharing what you’re going through and the goals you’re setting.”

Oh my gosh, Marty is just… everything! Everyone knows him as this incredible pop singer who writes all his own songs, which is amazing, but did you know he’s also tried acting? And he even helps other artists with their careers! Seriously, is there anything this man can’t do? I’m completely obsessed!

In 1975, his song “Denim and Lace” reached number 8 on the Australian music charts. Then, in 1977, “Mean Pair of Jeans” climbed to number 10.

He’s an actor with stage experience in productions like Godspell and The King and I. He’s also been on television, appearing in shows such as Number 96 and Class of ’75.

Marty shares two sons with his wife Rosa Merola, whom he married in January 1976.

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2026-01-24 04:05