Australians will have the chance to say goodbye to the beloved Australian comedian and entertainment icon Barry Humphries with a state memorial at the Sydney Opera House.
His memorial will be held at 11am on Friday December 15th, eight months on from his death.
Known for his portrayal of the iconic Dame Edna Everage, the 89-year-old passed away due to complications from his hip surgery.
As news of his death traversed the globe, the grief from fans and peers was immediate, as the world mourned the loss of an entertainment icon.
WATCH NOW: Dame Edna interrupts King Charles and Camilla at 2013 Royal Variety Performance. Article continues after video.
“The State Memorial will bring together dignitaries, family, friends and fans of Mr Humphries from across Australia and around the world to celebrate his extraordinary career and achievements,” the NSW government said online.
The memorial will screen on both ABC / ABC News and Nine on Free to Air.
Many stars are set to feature in the memorial. King Charles will lead a line up of megastars honouring Barry Humphries’ legacy.
King Charles has sent a message to the memorial service which will be read by the NSW Governor Margaret Beazley.
Sir Elton John, Little Britain co-creator David Walliams, British funnyman Rob Brydon, stage giants Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sir Cameron Mackintosh and Rupert Murdoch will also pay tribute.
ABC will also screen Barry Humphries: In His Own Words at 8:30pm on Friday night, in honour of his incredible life.
“Barry Humphries was a much loved Australian and a huge loss to the arts community,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told media when confirming that a state funeral would be held in Sydney.
NSW Premier Chris Minns added: “Barry Humphries was one of our nation’s greatest-ever comedic talents, and his passing marks the end of an era in Australian entertainment.”
“He was a true master of his craft, and his legacy will continue to live on through the unforgettable characters he brought to life on stage and screen.”
“The Sydney Opera House is a fitting location for what promises to be a memorable send-off given the venue’s significance in Australian arts, culture, and entertainment.”
Barry Humphries farewelled in private ceremony
On April 28th an intimate funeral was held for family and friends of Barry in the NSW Southern Highlands.
Guests were reportedly told about the occasion just the day before.
Sons Oscar and Rupert, daughters Emily and Tessa, and siblings Christopher and Barbara are said to have been in attendance.
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Friend and film director Bruce Beresford was there, revealing that no speeches were made, with excerpts from some of Barry’s favourite poems – including The Heart of a Friend by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow – read aloud instead.
“It was very touching, very touching warm. Everybody was either related or a great friend of Barry’s,” he said.
Shortly after, wife Lizzie Spender flew to London.
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