Angry Anderson, Lead Singer of Rose Tattoo, Dies at 79

Gary Stephen "Angry" Anderson, the frontman of the celebrated Australian rock band Rose Tattoo, has died at the age of 79. His family and bandmates announced his passing in a social media post on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

"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 Instagram post read. "Angry was a devoted father, and much-loved member of his friends, bandmates and the wider music and entertainment community."

Anderson, who had been hospitalized in August after suffering a cardiac arrest, leaves behind his children Roxanne, Galen, and Blaine. His youngest son, Liam, died in 2018 at the age of 26.

Born in Melbourne in 1947, Anderson rose to prominence in Australia's pub-rock scene as the lead singer of Rose Tattoo. The band released their debut album in 1978 and achieved success with hits like "Bad Boy for Love" and "Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw." Following the band's initial split in 1987, Anderson pursued a solo career, releasing his most successful single, "Suddenly," in 1987, which reached number two on the Australian charts. He also performed "Bound for Glory" during the 1991 AFL Grand Final.

Rose Tattoo reunited in 1993 and was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2006. In 1993, Anderson was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his community service, particularly his advocacy for youth.

Beyond music, Anderson had a brief acting career, appearing in the 1985 film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome and the 1992 stage production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

The family has requested privacy during this difficult time and will not be giving interviews.