(Mathew Murphy’s article appeared in the Daily Beast, 4/23; via Pam Green; Photo: REUTERS/Ian Waldie.)
GOODBYE POSSUMS
Tributes have poured in for Australian comedian Barry Humphries who has passed away in Sydney.
Barry Humphries, the Australian comedian best known for playing Dame Edna Everage, has died at the age of 89.
He had been in hospital in Sydney after suffering complications following hip surgery in March.
Humphries played the lilac-haired drag persona Dame Edna, who was known for her love of gladioli and her catchphrase “Hello Possums”, for more than 60 years. He also played the uncouth drunk Sir Les Patterson, among other characters.
His family confirmed his death in a statement, saying, “He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit.”
“With over 70 years on the stage, he was an entertainer to his core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be,” the statement said. “His audiences were precious to him, and he never took them for granted.
