Iconic Australian comedian and satirist Barry Humphries has passed away at the age of 89. Humphries was best known for his alter-ego Dame Edna Everage, a character he created and embodied for decades. The unmistakable lilac-coiffed, cat-eye-bespectacled Dame Edna will be remembered as one of the longest-lived and most iconic characters of Australian comedy. (The New York Times)
Humphries was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1934 and began his entertainment career in the 1950s as a comic actor in theater and television. He later gained international fame as a writer and performer, creating a wide variety of memorable characters both on stage and in film. (Reuters)
In addition to Dame Edna, Humphries also brought to life other beloved characters, such as the foul-mouthed, beer-swilling Australian diplomat Sir Les Patterson, and the perpetually tipsy cultural attache, Sandy Stone. (Variety)
Beyond his contributions to the world of comedy, Humphries was also an accomplished writer and artist, publishing numerous books and exhibiting his paintings around the world. (CNN)
Humphries was honored with many awards for his contributions to the arts, including a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) and a Tony Award. His impact on the world of comedy and the broader cultural landscape of both Australia and the world will be remembered for generations to come. (AP News)
Humphries passed away in his home city of Sydney, Australia, surrounded by loved ones. Tributes have poured in from around the world for the beloved comedian and the legacy he leaves behind. (The Guardian)
