The world of comedy has lost one of its brightest stars with the passing of Barry Humphries in his native Sydney at the age of 89. He was the mastermind behind the iconic character of Dame Edna Everage, among others, and his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come. Let us take a moment to reflect on the life and career of this comedic genius as we bid him farewell.
Australian comedian Barry Humphries, best known for his iconic character Dame Edna Everage, has passed away at the age of 89. Humphries had been in a Sydney hospital for several days following complications from hip surgery. His family confirmed his death via a statement, which described the comedian as “completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit”. Humphries had a career spanning more than 70 years, and was still touring as recently as last year with his one-man show “The Man Behind the Mask”.
Humphries was born in Melbourne in 1934 to loving but strait-laced parents, who nicknamed their eldest son Sunny Sam. As a teenager, Humphries was more interested in art and books than football, and attended Melbourne University where he embraced the subversive and anarchic art movement Dadaism. His contributions included “Pus In Boots,” waterproof rubber boots filled with custard, and performance art in which he would kick a blind accomplice and yell “Get out of my way, you disgusting blind person.”
In 1959, Humphries moved to London and began working in Peter Cook’s comedy venue The Establishment. He went on to become a celebrated comedian, writer, and actor, playing Sowerberry in the original London production of “Oliver!” in 1960, and winning a Tony Award for his Broadway show “Dame Edna: The Royal Tour” in 2000.
Dame Edna Everage began as a dowdy Mrs. Norm Everage, who first took to the stage in Humphries’ hometown of Melbourne in the mid-1950s. She evolved over time into a condescending and imperfectly-veiled snob, delighting audiences with her outlandish outfits and sharp wit. Edna became one of Humphries’ several enduring characters, alongside Sir Les Patterson, an ever-drunk, disheveled, and lecherous Australian cultural attache, and Sandy Stone, a melancholic and rambling man. Patterson reflected a perception of Australia as a cultural wasteland that drove Humphries, along with many leading Australian intellectuals, to London.
Humphries was also a respected character actor, with numerous stage and screen credits, an author of novels and an autobiography, and an accomplished landscape painter. His contributions to comedy were recognised by many, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who tweeted: “For 89 years, Barry Humphries entertained us through a galaxy of personas… A great wit, satirist, writer and an absolute one-of-a-kind, he was both gifted and a gift”. British comedian Ricky Gervais also paid tribute, tweeting: “Farewell, Barry Humphries, you comedy genius”.
Humphries is survived by his wife Lizzie Spender, four children, and 10 grandchildren. His legacy lives on through his enduring characters and his contributions to comedy, which have delighted audiences around the world for decades.
As we say goodbye to Barry Humphries, we also say goodbye to the unique brand of humor that he brought to the world. His colorful characters, sharp wit, and outrageous antics will forever be etched in our memory. Barry Humphries was a true comedy legend, and his impact on the entertainment industry will be felt for generations to come. Today, we honor his contributions and bid farewell to a true genius. Rest in Peace Barry Humphries, your comedic legacy will never be forgotten.
