Australian rock icon Angry Anderson has died at 79.
The Rose Tattoo frontman’s death was confirmed by his family and bandmates in a social media statement shared on Wednesday, marking the loss of one of the country’s most recognisable rock performers.
“It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Gary ‘Angry’ Anderson on the eve of Monday, 21 September 2026, surrounded by his loved ones here in Australia,” the statement said.
The message described Anderson as a devoted father and a much-loved figure among his friends, bandmates and the broader Australian music and entertainment community.
“His loss will be deeply felt by all those who knew and loved him both here in Australia and overseas,” his family and bandmates said.
They also asked for privacy as the family and band members mourned. No interviews will be given while they come to terms with what was described as a devastating loss.
Angry Anderson, pictured, has died at the age of 79
“We thank everyone for their prayers and messages of love and continued support,” the statement added.
It concluded: “With love, The Anderson family and Rose Tattoo Band. Stay young, grow strong.”
Born Gary Stephen Anderson, the singer is survived by his children Roxanne, Galen and Blaine, whom he had with his former wife, Lindy Michael.
Anderson’s son Liam died in 2018 at the age of 26.
The musician had experienced serious health problems in recent months and was hospitalised after suffering a cardiac arrest in August.
At the time, his family thanked fans for the flood of supportive messages and kind words sent to Anderson during his hospital stay.
“Your thoughts, prayers and well wishes mean more to Angry and his family than we can express,” they said.
Anderson had faced serious health difficulties in recent months after being hospitalised following a cardiac arrest in August
“We would like to let everyone know that Angry suffered a cardiac arrest and is currently in hospital receiving treatment and the care he needs,” the family said in a previous update.
Rose Tattoo were on their One Last Ride tour when Anderson was hospitalised, forcing the band to cancel performances across Europe.
Nine shows remained on the schedule, with the tour originally due to finish in Germany on August 21.
EXPLORE MORE: Dolly Parton’s Estate Accuses Nephew of Threatening Violence and Vowing to Destroy Her Legacy
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the love, messages and support you have already sent Angry and the band,” the group said at the time.
As Rose Tattoo’s celebrated lead singer, Anderson leaves behind a powerful legacy in Australian rock music.
He is renowned for his iconic song Suddenly, which played during the 1985 wedding of Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan’s characters on Neighbours.
Rose Tattoo (pictured) had embarked on their One Last Ride tour at the time, but were forced to cancel dates across Europe due to Anderson’s hospitalisation
In 2018, his youngest son, Liam, was murdered in a park on Sydney’s northern beaches.
The following year, Anderson broke down in tears in his first television interview since his son was allegedly bashed to death.
Apprentice plumber Mathew Flame was charged with his friend’s murder and remains in custody.
Born in Melbourne in 1947, Anderson rose to prominence as the frontman of hard-rock band Rose Tattoo, who made their name on Australia’s pub-rock scene.
Their debut album, Rose Tattoo, was released in 1978 and featured the hits Bad Boy for Love and Rock ‘n’ Roll Outlaw.’
When the group split in 1987, Anderson continued performing as a solo artist.
Rose Tattoo reunited in 1993 to support Guns N’ Roses on tour in Australia, and ere inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2006. Anderson pictured on stage with Slash
His most successful solo single was Suddenly, released in 1987 and reaching number two on the Australian charts.
His single, Bound for Glory, made a mark on Aussie rock history when he performed it during the 1991 AFL Grand Final at Waverley Park.
Rose Tattoo reunited in 1993 to support Guns N’ Roses on tour in Australia, and ere inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2006.
Also in 1993, the soft-hearted rocker was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to the community, particularly as a youth advocate.
Anderson tried his hand at acting, appearing in Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome in 1985 as Ironbar Bassey and as Herod in the 1992 arena production of the musical Jesus Christ Superstar.
MORE TO COME