Dame Edna Everage comedian, Barry Humphries, passes away at 89
Barry Humphries, the Australian comedian and performer who created the beloved character Dame Edna Everage, has passed away at the age of 89. Humphries had been in hospital in Sydney after complications following hip surgery in March. His fall in February was the start of his health troubles.
Humphries is best known for his iconic character Dame Edna Everage, who became a hit in the UK during the 1970s and landed her own TV chat show, the Dame Edna Everage Experience, in the late 1980s. In addition to Dame Edna, Humphries had many other popular personas, including the lecherous drunk Sir Les Patterson.
In a statement, Humphries' family remembered him as "completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit, and generosity of spirit". They said that Humphries' fans were "precious to him", and that his characters, "which brought laughter to millions, will live on".
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Humphries shortly after the news of his death broke, calling him "a great wit, satirist, writer and an absolute one-of-a-kind".
Humphries was born in Melbourne and moved to London in 1959, where he appeared in West End shows such as Maggie May and Oliver!. Inspired by the absurdist, avant-garde art movement Dada, he became a leading figure of the British comedy scene alongside contemporaries like Alan Bennett, Dudley Moore and Spike Milligan.
Humphries was known for his lightning-quick wit and subversive humor. Comedian Rory Bremner described him as "savagely funny", and actor and comedian Rob Brydon called him a "true great who inspired me immeasurably".
Humphries' most famous creation, Dame Edna Everage, was a gaudy, sharp-tongued comic alter ego who would leave audiences in stitches in Australia and beyond for decades. She was famed for her lilac-rinsed hair, flamboyant glasses, and catchphrase: "Hello possums!".
Humphries' other popular characters on stage and screen included the more grandfatherly Sandy Stone. He presented six series for BBC Radio 2, the latest being a three-part series celebrating 100 years of the BBC.
Humphries' fans in Australia are mourning the loss of a comedy legend. He was made an Officer of the Order of Australia, one of the country's highest civic honors, in 1982.
While later in his career, he was criticized for his views on gender affirmation surgery and transgender identity, Humphries will be remembered as a comedy icon who brought joy and laughter to millions of fans around the world. He is survived by his wife Lizzie Spender and four children.
Barry Humphries' passing is a great loss to the world of comedy and entertainment. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to bring joy and laughter to audiences for generations to come.
Barry Humphries was not only a comedian but also a talented writer, satirist, and performer. He was known for his razor-sharp wit and ability to skewer politicians and celebrities with his satirical humor. His legacy will live on through his iconic characters and the impact he had on the world of comedy.
Humphries' characters were not just funny but also served as a reflection of society. Dame Edna Everage, in particular, was a groundbreaking character as she challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Her brash and outrageous personality was a stark contrast to the demure and polite image of women in the 1950s and 60s.
Humphries' work was not limited to comedy, as he also had a successful career in theater and film. His performances in West End shows like "Maggie May" and "Oliver!" were well-received, and he also appeared in movies like "Bedazzled," "The Hobbit," and "Finding Nemo."
Despite his success and fame, Humphries remained humble and true to himself. He once said in an interview, "I'm not a star, I'm an entertainer." His dedication to his craft and his willingness to push boundaries made him an inspiration to many in the entertainment industry.
The news of his passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and fellow performers. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of Humphries.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Humphries, saying, "He was a great wit, satirist, writer, and an absolute one-of-a-kind. He was both gifted and a gift."
Comedian Rob Brydon, who considered Humphries a friend and mentor, tweeted, "Barry Humphries was a true great who inspired me immeasurably. It was a delight to call him my friend. He will be missed."
Humphries' impact on the world of comedy and entertainment cannot be overstated. His characters and performances brought joy and laughter to millions of people around the world. He will be remembered as a true original and a comedy legend.