John Farnham's Memoir Unveils Shocking Abuse and Triumph Over Manager's Control
October 28, 2024Reflecting on his past, Farnham expresses sorrow and shame for not recognizing Sambell's manipulative behavior sooner, attributing it to his youth and stress.
In his upcoming memoir, 'The Voice Inside', John Farnham reveals the abusive relationship he endured with his first manager, Darryl Sambell.
Farnham describes how Sambell exerted control over various aspects of his life, including his work, clothing, diet, and personal relationships, isolating him from friends and family.
Farnham recounts how Sambell allegedly drugged him with amphetamines and sleeping pills to maintain control, a manipulation he only recognized years later.
Farnham ultimately terminated his relationship with Sambell in 1976, describing it as a 'huge relief' after nearly a decade of abuse.
Following his split from Sambell, Farnham found significant success with music manager Glenn Wheatley in the 1980s and 90s.
One year after undergoing a 12-hour surgery to remove a cancerous tumor, Farnham announced he was 'cancer-free' and continues to share his journey with fans.
He accuses Sambell of being 'sexually aggressive', responding with jealousy and aggression to any rejection, which further contributed to his manipulation.
In 1969, Farnham filed a lawsuit against Sambell for unpaid profits, which he later dropped in 1975, stating there were 'no ill feelings'.
Farnham reflects on his experience with a sense of annoyance at himself for being trusting and gullible during that time.
The memoir is set to be released on October 30, and Farnham will narrate the audiobook himself after his recovery from cancer surgery.
Sambell discovered Farnham when he was just 17, performing in a bar in Cohuna, Victoria, in 1967.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Oct 27, 2024
John Farnham opens up about his ‘abusive’ and ‘sexually aggressive’ first managerThe Sydney Morning Herald • Oct 28, 2024
‘He drugged me for years’ Farnham details early abuse by managerNZ Herald • Oct 28, 2024
John Farnham details allegations about former manager in new memoir ‘The Voice Inside’