State memorial for Barry Humphries AO CBE to be held at the Sydney Opera House in December

Prime Minister

The family of Barry Humphries AO CBE has accepted the offer of a State Memorial Service in recognition of the late entertainer’s contribution to Australian arts and entertainment.

The Memorial, to be held at the Sydney Opera House on Friday, 15 December 2023, will be co-hosted by the Australian and NSW Governments, and in partnership with the arts community from across the country, including Mr Humphries’ home state of Victoria.

As an internationally recognised home of performance, arts and culture, the Sydney Opera House is a fitting venue for the service which will honour the remarkable life and enduring legacy of the beloved Australian personality.

The late Barry Humphries passed away in Sydney on 22 April aged 89, following a celebrated seven-decade global career. He was best known for his iconic characters including Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson, as well as being a renowned author, actor and satirist.

The Memorial will bring together dignitaries, family, friends and fans of the late Mr Humphries from across the country and around the world to celebrate his extraordinary career and achievements.

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