Barry Humphries, the Australian comedian and satirist who created the iconic character Dame Edna Everage, has passed away at the age of 89 in Sydney. The news of his death was confirmed by his family on March 1, 2022.
Humphries was born in Melbourne in 1934 and began his career as a comedian and performer in the 1950s. He gained international fame in the 1970s with his creation of Dame Edna, a larger-than-life character who was known for her flamboyant outfits, outrageous behavior, and sharp wit.
Dame Edna quickly became a cultural phenomenon, appearing on television shows, stage productions, and even in her own feature film. Humphries also created other memorable characters, including the drunken cultural attaché Sir Les Patterson and the snobbish housewife Sandy Stone.
Humphries’ work was often controversial and provocative, pushing boundaries and challenging social norms. He was known for his irreverent humor and biting satire, which often targeted politicians, celebrities, and other public figures.
Despite his success, Humphries remained a private person and rarely gave interviews or made public appearances outside of his performances. He was also known for his philanthropic work, supporting charities and causes related to the arts, education, and health.
Tributes to Humphries have poured in from around the world, with many fans and colleagues expressing their sadness at his passing. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison called him a “true icon” and praised his contribution to Australian culture.
Humphries’ legacy will live on through his many memorable characters and his influence on comedy and satire. He will be remembered as one of Australia’s greatest entertainers and a true original.
