Australian Icon John Barry Humphries Back in Hospital After Health Scare
Beloved Australian entertainer John Barry Humphries was rushed back to hospital shortly after his recent discharge, raising fresh concerns about his health. The legendary performer, famed for his alter ego Dame Edna Everage, has had a rollercoaster few weeks.
From Backyard Dreamer to Comedy Legend
Born in Melbourne on February 17, 1934, Humphries was always drawn to acting and dressing up. Despite his wealthy upbringing, he famously amused himself for hours with a dressing-up box in his backyard. Initially, he enrolled at the University of Melbourne to study law, philosophy, and visual arts but soon dropped out to chase his comedic career.
At just 21, Humphries created the character that would make him a household name. Mrs Norm Everage, aka Dame Edna, first took to the stage in 1955 with the Melbourne Theatre Company. The purple-haired diva with trademark cat-eye glasses quickly became a worldwide sensation through TV, film, and Humphries’ many books.
London Life and Literary Larks
In 1959, Humphries moved to London, rubbing shoulders with British comedy royalty like Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, and Spike Milligan. He wrote for the satirical magazine Private Eye and performed at Cook’s famous nightclub, The Establishment. Humphries also appeared in West End hits like Oliver! and Maggie May.
The inspiration for Dame Edna’s sharp wit and uniquely Aussie flavour came from his mother, local provincial mayoresses, and his cherished childhood nanny—after whom Edna was named.
“Edna is indestructible and a brilliant mouthpiece,” Humphries told The Guardian. “She’s able to say things about political correctness that I simply can’t.”
Legacy and Controversy
Humphries co-founded the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 1987, cementing his place as a comedy pioneer. However, his career was not without controversy.
In 2018, his name was removed from a comedy festival trophy after backlash over his comments on transgender issues. Humphries once questioned, “How many different types of restrooms can you have? It’s wicked when mad teachers promote it to kids.” In 2016, he called Caitlyn Jenner “a publicity-seeking ratbag” and referred to gender reassignment surgery as “self-mutilation.” He later claimed these remarks were “grossly misinterpreted.”
Personal Life and Lasting Love
Humphries leaves behind four children and his fourth wife, Lizzie Spender, whom he married in 1990. From previous marriages, he had two daughters and two sons.
“I’m a little smarter now. I’m not a very easy person to be married to, the truth be told,” Humphries said about his long-lasting marriage to Spender.
Despite health challenges, John Barry Humphries remains a towering figure in comedy, known for his sharp humour and unforgettable characters.
