The Last Photo Taken Of Inxs Together In Full — And The Story Behind It

April 2, 2025

The last photo taken of INXS together in full is a moment frozen in time, one that carries the weight of history and the bittersweet memories of a band that had sparked joy and connection for fans around the world. It was captured on a chilly afternoon in November 1997, just a few days before a concert that would mark the end of an era for the iconic Australian rock band. The members, each personifying the vibrant energy that defined their music, stood close together, arms slung casually over each other’s shoulders, laughter lighting up their faces. This photograph would soon become a symbol of their hard-fought journey, a testament to their passion for music, and ultimately, a heartbreaking reminder of what was lost.

As the camera clicked, lead singer Michael Hutchence flashed that famous smile of his, a blend of charm and mischief that drew millions to their music. Each member of INXS—Kirk Pengilly, Garry Gary Beers, Jon Farriss, Andrew Farriss, and Tim Farriss—held a sense of camaraderie that had deep roots. They had climbed to the top of the music charts, thrilling audiences with hits like “Need You Tonight” and “New Sensation.” The photo captured not just their professional bond, but also their friendship, which had weathered the storms of fame, challenges, and personal struggles. Yet, even in that moment, there was an unspoken tension; the world was changing, and so were they.

The days leading up to that last photo were filled with mixed emotions. The band was preparing for a crucial performance at the Wembley Arena, a venue where they had once played to thousands of adoring fans. This concert was meant to be a celebration, a reflection of their incredible journey. But it also felt like a farewell, especially with Hutchence battling his personal demons, which would soon overshadow their legacy. Despite the challenges, they pushed on, believing that their passion for music could bridge any gap and bring them peace.

But the joyful atmosphere of that moment was tinged with the inevitable. Just months later, on November 22, 1997, Michael Hutchence was found dead in a hotel room in Sydney. The shockwave hit the music world hard, leaving fans and the band members grappling with grief. That single photograph, filled with laughter and life, became a haunting reminder of what had been and what would never be again. It stood as a memorial to their shared dreams and the magic they had created together through their music.

However, the spirit of INXS did not fade away with Hutchence. The remaining band members found resilience in their shared memories and in the legacy they had built. They continued to perform and create music, determined to honor their friend and his impact on their lives and careers. Over the years, they brought new energy to their performances, showing the world that music could heal, inspire, and connect even in the face of sorrow. They understood that Hutchence’s passion would always be a part of them, and they channeled that into every chord and every lyric.

Years later, that last photo is not just a snapshot; it’s a powerful reminder of friendship, creativity, and the indomitable spirit of artists who dare to dream. For fans, it encapsulates the joy and heartache of INXS, a band that taught the world to celebrate life through music. Each time that photograph is shared, it celebrates their journey, resilience, and the everlasting bond forged in the fire of their passion for music, showing that even in loss, there is profound beauty and inspiration to be found.