Hugh Jackman paid a heartfelt tribute to Rob Hirst, the legendary drummer of rock band Midnight Oil, who passed away at the age of 70.
In a post on Instagram Story, the Hollywood star and a longtime fan of the band, expressed his deep sadness over the loss of the Australian music icon.
In a short but heartfelt message, Jackman fondly recalled the first encounter with the band after seeing them perform live for the very first time.
Moreover, he described Midnight Oil as one of his “favorite bands,” a group he still listens to and admires to this day.
“I’m so sad to hear the news that Rob Hirst has passed away. Midnight Oil was the first I ever went to growing up. One of my favorite bands that I still listen to all the time. I’m sending my love and thoughts to his close friends and family,” he wrote.
Hugh Jackman mourns the passing of Midnight Oil's Rob Hirst pic.twitter.com/gkJyD65GXq
— Polly (@pollygarcia0915) January 21, 2026
Midnight Oil confirmed the passing of Hirst by posting the heartbreaking news on Instagram.
“After fighting heroically for almost three years, Rob is now free of pain – ‘a glimmer of tiny light in the wilderness. He died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. The family asks that anyone wanting to honour Rob donate to Pankind, Pancreatic Cancer Australia or Support Act,” the post reads, along with a photo from his early years as a musician.
The comment section was flooded with touching messages as fans mourned his death.
“There will never be another Rob Hirst!!! Play ‘Kosciusko’ as loud as you can in honour of the great man!” one wrote.
“RIP Rob, Thanks for the music and may your songline continue, mate. Condolences and big love to all the family,” another added.
Artists like fellow Australian musician Paul Dempsey of Something for Kate shared their heartfelt memories with Hirst.
“What a human, what a drummer, what an absolute force he was. It was always a massive honour to share a stage with the Oils and it was always a great pleasure to be in Rob’s company. Much love to the band and Rob’s loved ones,” he said.
In 2023, the iconic drummer was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer but did not reveal it publicly until 2025 with The Australian.
At the time, Hirst shared that he first learned about his condition six months after Midnight Oil wrapped up the Australian leg of their farewell tour in October 2023.
Since then, he has been receiving constant medical assistance, including chemotherapy and surgery.
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