Barry Humphries, the legendary Australian comedian, has been rushed to hospital.
The 89-year-old, who is best known for portraying the character Dame Edna, recently underwent hip replacement surgery but due to complications has had to be readmitted.
WATCH: Dame Edna sparks awkward conversation with Waleed Aly
Sunrise reported the news this morning, April 19, with entertainment journalist Peter Ford saying that while Barry’s health took a turn over the last few days, he’s confident Barry will pull through.
“Australia loves you and will always be grateful for everything you have given us and I think Barry has a fighting spirit that he won’t give up easily. Many people will be thinking of him and his family,” Peter said.
The breakfast show also sent a reporter to the hospital where Barry is currently admitted.
The Sunrise reporter, Liam Tapper, said, “There are serious concerns for Barry Humphries’ health… We understand he has suffered a setback after his recent hip surgery that he had.”
“He and his wife Lizzie live in London but he was back here in Australia where he suffered a broken hip after going to get a book. He has since undergone complications after the hip surgery. In true Barry Humphries style, [he] was upbeat after surgery, he called himself bionic Azhar. Such is his nature and humour.”
Barry began his career in the late 1950s. His breakthrough role was as Mr Sowerberry in the original 1960 London production of the musical Oliver!
Barry went on to star in a few films such as Bedazzled and The Bliss of Mrs. Blossom before finding his true calling: one-man satirical stage revues. During these revues, Barry would perform as Dame Edna as well as other characters he created, like Les Patterson and Sandy Stone.
In recent years, Barry has appeared in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie and The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey among many other projects. We wish him a speedy recovery!
