Olivia Newton-John’s family is set to accept the Victorian government’s offer of a state funeral, as tributes to the renowned singer, movie star and philanthropist continue to pour in from around the world.
And it left her family struggling to come to terms with a death that wasn’t made any easier by knowing just how sick the performer was.
Olivia Newton-John: A life in pictures
Her niece, Totti Goldsmith, confirmed the family would accept an offer of a state funeral to farewell the entertainment icon.
“We will,” she told A Current Affair tonight.
“On behalf of not just our family but I think Australia needs it.
“She’s so loved and I think our country needs it so we’re going to accept it.”
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews had earlier said he wanted to speak to Newton-John’s family before speaking about any plans for a state funeral.
“As for celebrating her life and 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,” he said.
“We’ve only just learned this sad news.”
Landmarks across Melbourne lit up in pink tonight to pay tribute to the star, who passed away in her California ranch after a years-long battle with cancer.
Andrews said the tribute was a way for the city to remember the star and “her enormous contribution to cancer awareness, research and treatment”.
