Who Is Barry Humphries? Age, Biography and Wiki
Barry Humphries, born on February 17, 1934, in Melbourne, Australia, was a renowned comedian, actor, and writer. He was best known for his creation of the iconic character Dame Edna Everage, a glamorous, eccentric housewife who captured audiences worldwide. Throughout his illustrious career, Humphries entertained fans with his sharp wit and unique sense of humor, becoming a significant figure in the world of comedy until his passing in April 2023.
As of 2025, Barry's legacy continues to inspire comedic talent globally, reflecting his influence on Australian culture and beyond. His work spans decades, making him a beloved entertainer.
| Occupation | Autobiographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 17, 1934 |
| Age | 89 Years |
| Birth Place | Melbourne, Victoria, Australia |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | Australia |
| Date of death | 22 April, 2023 |
| Died Place | Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |
Popularity
Barry Humphries's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Barry Humphries stood approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall. Over the years, his weight fluctuated, though he was known for maintaining a relatively healthy physique throughout most of his career. Specific weight measurements are not widely noted, as his comedic persona often took precedence over physical stats.
Following a fall in February of the same year, Humphries died after complications from hip surgery at St Vincent's Hospital in Darlinghurst, Sydney, on 22 April 2023, at the age of 89. After his funeral, he was sent to Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium for cremation. His remains were scattered in an undisclosed place.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his life, Barry Humphries was married four times. His most notable relationship was with his last wife, Elise McGuire, whom he married in 1990. The couple shared a profound bond, and Barry often referenced his family in interviews, underscoring their importance in his life. As of 2025, Barry was known for having a close-knit family, even following his passing.
His grandfather John George Humphries was an emigrant to Australia from Manchester, England, in the late 1800s. His father was well-to-do, and Barry grew up in a "clean, tasteful, and modern suburban home" on Christowel Street, Camberwell, then one of Melbourne's new "garden suburbs".
His early home life set the pattern for his eventual stage career; his father in particular spent little time with him, and Humphries spent hours playing at dressing-up in the back garden.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2023, Barry Humphries had an estimated net worth of approximately $30 million. His wealth derived primarily from his successful career as a comedian, television personality, and writer. In 2025, his earnings continue to resonate through various tributes, re-releases of recorded shows, and continued sales of merchandise associated with his memorable characters.
Career, Business and Investments
Barry Humphries had an extensive and varied career spanning over seven decades. He first gained popularity in the 1950s, and his character Dame Edna Everage became a worldwide sensation. Humphries also ventured into television, film, and theater, gaining acclaim for his performances in various productions, both in Australia and abroad.
Apart from acting, he was an accomplished writer and published several books throughout his career. He was known to have made smart investments in the arts and theatre, aligning with his passion for performing and storytelling, ensuring his financial stability for years.
Humphries had written and performed songs and sketches in university revues, so after leaving university he joined the newly formed Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC). It was at this point that he created the first incarnation of what became his best-known character, Edna Everage. The first stage sketch to feature Mrs.
Norm Everage, called "Olympic Hostess", premiered at Melbourne University's Union Theatre on 13 December 1955.
Social Network
Barry Humphries maintained a vibrant presence on social media platforms, where fans celebrated his work and shared memories. His official accounts, particularly on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, showcased his wit and provided a glimpse into his life and career. In 2025, tributes to his work continue to circulate, with fans and fellow comedians sharing anecdotes and commemorative posts.
Humphries spent two years studying at the University of Melbourne, where he studied law, philosophy and fine arts. During this time, he was a private in the Melbourne University Regiment, serving a period of national service in the Citizens Military Force of the Australian Army.
He did not graduate from university (although he would receive an honorary doctorate almost 50 years later). During this time he became a follower of the deconstructive and absurdist art movement, Dada.
Education
Humphries graduated from the University of Melbourne, where he studied in the arts and began developing his comedic talents. His educational foundation played a significant role in shaping his career, allowing him to explore various aspects of performing arts. His early experiences laid the groundwork for what would become a remarkable journey in the entertainment industry.
Humphries's characters brought him international renown. Originally conceived as a dowdy Moonee Ponds housewife who caricatured Australian suburban complacency and insularity, the Dame Edna Everage character developed into a satire of stardom: a gaudily dressed, acid-tongued, egomaniacal, internationally fêted "housewife gigastar".
His other satirical characters included the "priapic and inebriated cultural attaché" Sir Les Patterson, who "continued to bring worldwide discredit upon Australian arts and culture, while contributing as much to the Australian vernacular as he has borrowed from it"; gentle, grandfatherly "returned gentleman" Sandy Stone; iconoclastic 1960s' under
ground film-maker Martin Agrippa; Paddington socialist academic Neil Singleton; sleazy trade-union official Lance Boyle; high-pressure art salesman Morrie O'Connor; failed tycoon Owen Steele; and archetypal Australian bloke Barry McKenzie.
