John Travolta in 22-hour dash to be with pregnant wife

MELBOURNE - John Travolta, who was to arrive in Perth to headline a list of celebrities at this weekend’s charity event, dashed back to the United States after hearing that pregnant wife Kelly Preston had gone into labour.

Travolta had promised earlier this week in Brisbane that if his wife “goes into labour, I’ll have to take the plane straight back on a 22-hour flight”.

Channel Seven general manager Ray Wardrop said Travolta was returning home to be with his family.

“Whilst we are obviously disappointed that John cant come to Perth to appear on Telethon, we completely understand that his family comes first,” News.com.au quoted Wardrop as saying.

“Channel Seven, and I am sure everyone in Western Australia, send our best wishes to John and his family.

“He is always welcome back to Perth at any time,” he said.

Travolta was set to be handed the key to the city when he flew into Perth today.

The Sunday Times reports that the 56-year-old was to receive the honour, with Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi having planned to greet Travolta at Perth airport this afternoon. (ANI)