Piers Morgan and Rylan Clark lead celebrities paying tribute to comic Barry Humphries after Dame Edna star dies aged 89
CELEBRITIES have been paying tribute to the much-loved comic Barry Humphries.
The Dame Edna Everage star has died aged 89 following complications after surgery.
Rylan Clark said: “Seeing all the Barry Humphries clips is just so warming.
“What a genuine genius. Such a sad loss.”
Piers Morgan wrote: “RIP Barry Humphries, 89.
“One of the funniest people I’ve ever met. A wondrously intelligent, entertaining, daring, provocative, mischievous comedy genius.
“As hilarious in private as he was as the iconic Dame Edna. What a life, what a character. Thanks for all the laughs, Barry.”
Ricky Gervais added: “Farewell, Barry Humphries, you Comedy genius.”
“I wonder if all geniuses are as lovely as Barry Humphries. Thank you for delighting and inspiring us. Quite simply, you were the greatest,” said Matt Lucas.
Lizzie Cundy added: “So sad to hear my all time favourite comedian Barry Humphries has died.
“I laughed and laughed at his Dame Edna Everage shows!
“He was the most significant comedian since Charlie Chaplin…
“Thank you dear Barry for all the belly laughs. Rest in peace.”
TV presenter Carol Vorderman wrote: “You will be mourned Barry Humphries.
“I only met you a few times but that look in your eyes full of bright intelligence and mischief, knowing trouble was ahead and looking forward to every special second of it: I’ll never forget it. Thank you Sir.
“A genius.”
The legendary Australian entertainer’s health deteriorated after being released from hospital.
The comedian had the operation in February after a fall at home and had been readmitted to St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney.
The star sadly passed away on Saturday evening according to a spokesman for the hospital where he was being treated.
The spokesman said: “I can confirm Barry Humphries passed away this evening Sydney time, around 7 pm on Saturday evening”.
Humphries is survived by his fourth wife Lizzie Spender and his four children.
He married Spender in 1990 and has two daughters and sons from his previous wives.
His family had scrambled to the hospital to be by his bedside, including his daughter Emily who Humphries was estranged from for over 20 years.
The beloved comedian had no contact with his daughter for over two decades, before the pair reconciled at his bedside.