# Barry Humphries

> Australian comedian and actor (1934–2023)

**Wikidata**: [Q734221](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q734221)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barry_Humphries)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/barry-humphries

## Summary
Barry Humphries was an Australian comedian, actor, and writer renowned for creating iconic characters like Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson. Born in 1934, he became a central figure in Australian entertainment, blending satire with comedy to critique societal norms. His career spanned over six decades, leaving a lasting impact on comedy and theatre globally.

## Biography
- **Born**: February 17, 1934
- **Nationality**: Australian
- **Education**: Attended Melbourne Grammar School and the University of Melbourne
- **Known for**: Pioneering Australian comedy through characters like Dame Edna Everage
- **Employer(s)**: Worked extensively in theatre, film, and television
- **Field(s)**: Comedy, acting, writing, painting

## Contributions
- **Character Creation**: Developed Dame Edna Everage (1955), a satirical persona critiquing Australian suburban culture, and Sir Les Patterson, a boorish diplomat.
- **Literary Works**: Authored autobiographies and comedic writings, including "The Barry Humphries Diary" and "More Please."
- **Theatre and Film**: Starred in numerous stage productions and films, such as *The Loved One* (1965) and *Shirley Valentine* (1989).
- **Awards**: Received the Centenary Medal (2001), Commander of the Order of the British Empire (2003), and was named an Australian National Living Treasure.

## FAQs
**What are Barry Humphries' most famous characters?**  
Dame Edna Everage, a flamboyant housewife, and Sir Les Patterson, a crude diplomat, are his most iconic creations, symbolizing his satirical approach to comedy.

**Where did Barry Humphries study?**  
He attended Melbourne Grammar School and later studied at the University of Melbourne, though his academic focus shifted to the arts.

**What awards did Barry Humphries receive?**  
He was honoured with the Centenary Medal, appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire, and recognised as an Australian National Living Treasure, among other accolades.

**What mediums did Barry Humphries work in?**  
His career spanned theatre, film, television, and literature, showcasing versatility across multiple creative platforms.

## Why They Matter
Barry Humphries revolutionised Australian comedy by using satire to critique societal norms, making him a global icon. His characters, particularly Dame Ed analysing the evolution of Australian identity and culture. His influence extends to contemporary comedians and writers who adopt similar satirical techniques.

## Notable For
- Creating Dame Edna Everage, a cultural icon in Australian comedy.
- Receiving prestigious awards, including the Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
- Being named an Australian National Living Treasure.
- Contributing to film and theatre with memorable performances.
- Blending comedy with social commentary through his characters.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Barry Humphries was born on February 17, 1934, in Melbourne, Australia. He attended Melbourne Grammar School and later enrolled at the University of Melbourne, where he began developing his comedic personas. His early life laid the foundation for his future career in the arts.

### Career Highlights
Humphries' breakthrough came in 1955 with the creation of Dame Edna Everage, a character that would define his career. He performed in numerous stage shows, including *The Enchanted Castle* and *The Beast of Yucca Flats*. His film roles, such as in *The Loved One* (1965), showcased his acting range. Humphries also authored several books, blending autobiography with comedic storytelling.

### Artistic Style and Impact
Humphries' use of satire and drag challenged societal norms, making him a pioneer in Australian comedy. His characters, such as Dame Edna and Sir Les Patterson, critiqued Australian culture and politics, resonating both locally and internationally. His work influenced generations of comedians, ensuring his legacy in the entertainment industry.

### Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Humphries received numerous accolades. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2003 and awarded the Centenary Medal in 2001. His recognition as an Australian National Living Treasure underscored his significant cultural impact.

### Legacy
Barry Humphries' legacy lies in his ability to use comedy as a tool for social commentary. His characters remain iconic figures in Australian cultural history, and his influence continues to be felt in the work of contemporary comedians and writers. His passing in 2023 marked the end of an era, but his contributions to comedy and theatre endure.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. The Peerage
3. Source
4. Czech National Authority Database
5. Barry Humphries. www.acmi.net.au
6. [Queen awards Humphries CBE. ABC News. 2007](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2007-10-11/queen-awards-humphries-cbe/695638)
7. Australian Honours Search Facility
8. [Theatre World Award Recipients](http://www.theatreworldawards.org/past-recipients.html)
9. Australian honours system
10. CiNii Research
11. MusicBrainz
12. Internet Broadway Database
13. Discogs
14. Internet Speculative Fiction Database
15. Artists of the World Online
16. [Barry Humphries dies aged 89: Comic genius and creator of Dame Edna Everage is remembered as a giant of the international stage and 'was completely himself until the very end' his heartbroken family reveals. Daily Mail. 2023](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11997149/Barry-Humphries-remembered-comic-genius-creator-Dame-Edna-Everage-dies-89.html)
17. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
18. www.acmi.net.au
19. [Barry Humphries bares all in personal comedy. Herald Sun](https://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/arts/barry-humphries-to-return-to-stage-next-may-in-personal-comedy/news-story/c35e557b9e5622aa0fc58ca25e15cfba)
20. CONOR.SI
21. BBC Things
22. The Movie Database
23. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
24. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
25. performing-arts.ch