The music world is mourning the loss of Australian rock legend Gary “Angry” Anderson, who has died at the age of 79. The longtime Rose Tattoo frontman passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones in Australia. His death came only weeks after he suffered a cardiac arrest while the band was on its farewell tour in Europe.
Anderson was a major figure in Australian rock for decades. Rose Tattoo, formed in 1976, became known for songs including Bad Boy for Love, Rock ’n’ Roll Outlaw, Nice Boys and We Can’t Be Beaten. Although the band initially struggled for success at home, it later became an important Australian music export, and Rose Tattoo was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2006.
Beyond Rose Tattoo, Anderson also enjoyed success as a solo artist, most notably with the 1987 ballad Suddenly. The song became widely known after being featured during the wedding of Scott and Charlene on the Australian soap opera Neighbours. He also had an acting career, most famously playing Ironbar Bassey in Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, alongside Tina Turner.
Rose Tattoo had been celebrating its 50th anniversary with the “One Last Ride” tour, but the remaining European dates were cancelled after Anderson was hospitalized in Germany. The band described him as a devoted father and a much-loved member of the music and entertainment community, saying his loss would be deeply felt in Australia and around the world. His family and bandmates have asked for privacy as they mourn.