The family of Barry Humphries AO CBE have accepted the offer of a State Memorial Service to be held at the Sydney Opera House on Friday 15th December 2023.
The event will be co-hosted by the Australian and NSW Governments, in partnership with the arts community across the country, including Victoria.
The Memorial will bring together dignitaries, family, friends and fans of the late Humphries from across the country and around the world to celebrate his remarkable career and accomplishments.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “Barry Humphries was a much loved Australian and was a huge loss to the arts community.
“The Australian Government is delighted to be working with the Government of New South Wales to bring about a state memorial to honor the life and legacy of this beloved entertainer.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns said: “Barry Humphries was one of our nation’s greatest 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 live on through the unforgettable characters he brought to life on stage and screen.
“The Sydney Opera House is a fitting venue for what promises to be a memorable farewell given the place’s importance to Australian arts, culture and entertainment.”
Humphries passed away in Sydney on April 22 at the age of 89, but it’s unclear why the memorial will be held nearly 8 months later.
So as I said, the venue is the Sydney Opera House.
As I said, the Victorian Government is NOT involved.
There’s no need to rehash the story again, but the family simply followed Barry’s clear wishes.
I can’t explain the delay time until the event. https://t.co/7MQCTSDORJ— Peter Ford (@mrpford) May 22, 2023
