Celebrity

Dame Edna Creator Barry Humphries Dies In Sydney At 89

Published

2 years ago

2023-04-24

Kiara Grace

CANBERRA, Australia – Barry Humphries, Tony Award-winning comedian known for his outrageous theatrical character, Dame Edna Everage, a condescending and thinly disguised snob whose changing character has charmed audiences for seven decades, has died. He was 89.

His family confirmed his death in a Sydney hospital where he had spent several days due to complications after hip surgery.

According to a family statement, “he was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, unique wit, and generosity of spirit.”

“He was an entertainer to the core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be,” they continued.

Humphries had resided in London for decades before returning to his native Australia for Christmas.

He told The Sydney Morning Herald last month that his treatment after his accident and hip replacement had been “agony.”

“It was the most absurd thing, as are all domestic incidents.” “I was reaching for a book when my foot got caught on something, and I fell,” Humphries explained his incident.

Humphries has continued to perform as a performer, touring the United Kingdom last year with his one-man show “The Man Behind the Mask.”

Dame Edna began as dowdy Mrs. Norm Everage, who first appeared on stage in Humphries’ hometown of Melbourne in the mid-1950s. Humphries found postwar suburbia immobility and cultural blandness suffocating.

“Farewell, Barry Humphries, you comedy genius,” Ricky Gervais, a British comedian, tweeted.

Edna is one of Humphries’ most memorable characters. Sir Les Patterson, an ever-drunk, unkempt, and lecherous Australian cultural attache, is the second most famous.

Patterson reflected Humphries’ and many other renowned Australian intellectuals’ perception of Australia as a Western cultural wasteland.

Humphries, a law school dropout, had significant success as an actor, writer, and entertainer in the United Kingdom in the 1970s, but the United States remained elusive.

In the United States, he received a Tony Award in 2000 for his Broadway production “Dame Edna: The Royal Tour.”

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to the legendary comedian.

“For 89 years, Barry Humphries entertained us through a galaxy of personas, from Dame Edna to Sandy Stone,” Albanese tweeted, referring to one of Humphries’ most enduring characters, the gloomy and meandering Stone. “But Barry was always the brightest star in that galaxy.” He was both gifted and a gift, a wonderful wit, satirist, writer, and an amazing one-of-a-kind.”

“Farewell, Barry Humphries, you comedy genius,” Ricky Gervais, a British comedian, tweeted.

“One of the funniest people I have ever met,” said Piers Morgan, a British television personality.

Morgan called Morgan a “wonderfully intelligent, entertaining, daring, provocative, mischievous comedy genius.”

Humphries was also a well-known character actor with several stage and cinema appearances, the author of novels and an autobiography, and an exceptional landscape painter.

On February 17, 1934, John Barry Humphries was born in Melbourne. His parents were content, loving, and strict, and they must have worried about their eldest son, Sunny Sam. His mother always told him not to bring attention to himself.

On February 17, 1934, John Barry Humphries was born in Melbourne.

Humphries was more interested in art and secondhand bookshops than sports before graduating from Melbourne Grammar School. At 16, his favorite author was Franz Kafka, and he subsequently stated that he “felt a little foreign.”

He studied Dadaism, a subversive, anarchic, and absurdist European art movement, for two years at Melbourne University.

“Puss In Boots,” waterproof rubber boots filled with custard, and, on the performance art side, going on a tram with a supposedly blind accomplice whom Humphries would kick in the shins while saying, “Get out of my way, you disgusting blind person,” were among his contributions.

He moved to London in 1959 and began working at Peter Cook’s comedy club, The Establishment. In 1960, he played Sowerberry in the first London production of “Oliver!” and reprised the role on Broadway. In “Treasure Island,” he co-starred alongside Spike Milligan and William Rushton.

In 1964, Humphries collaborated with New Zealand artist Nicholas Garland to create the Barry McKenzie comic strip for the satirical magazine Private Eye.

The Australian government prohibited the book version of the cartoons because it “relied on indecency for its humor.” Humphries expressed satisfaction at the attention and pleaded with officials not to relax the restriction.

Humphries’ drinking had gotten out of hand by this point. In late 1970, he was charged with being drunk and unruly in Melbourne. He finally admitted himself to an alcoholism hospital for therapy that would transform him into a lifetime abstainer.

Despite the earlier restriction, the first Barry McKenzie film was released in 1972, with financial help from the Australian government. It was panned by critics, who were worried about what the world’s first film to feature beer-induced vomiting would do to Australia’s reputation abroad.

However, it was a tremendous success, and a sequel two years later had then-Prime Minister Gough Whitlam knighting McKenzie’s aunt, Edna.

He was married four times and left behind his wife, Lizzie Spender, four children, and ten grandchildren.

SOURCE – (AP)

Kiara Grace

Kiara Grace is a staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. Her writing focuses on technology trends, particularly in the realm of consumer electronics and software. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for breaking down complex topics.

Kiara delivers insightful analyses that resonate with tech enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Her articles strike a balance between in-depth coverage and accessibility, making them a go-to resource for anyone seeking to stay informed about the latest innovations shaping our digital world.

Related Topics:Barry Humphries Dame Edna

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Celebrity

Gypsy Rose Talks Parenting Plans After Announcing Pregnancy

Published

2 days ago

2024-12-05

Geoff Brown

Gypsy Rose earlier told Us Weekly that she hoped to become a mother when the time was right.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her boyfriend, Ken Urker, are preparing for the birth of their first child. Gipsy Rose stated, “We’re going to accomplish this together. Blanchard, who revealed her pregnancy on YouTube this week.

“He’s going to have to stay at my parents’ house for a couple of days and vice versa,” Blanchard said of Urker. “But I can’t move in with him or buy a house until I come off parole. So we’ll have to work around the schedule.”

Blanchard was released from prison on parole in December 2023 — she was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder of her mother, Claudine “Dee Dee” Blanchard, who allegedly mistreated her throughout her childhood — and has been living in her father, Rod’s and stepmother Kristy’s home in Louisiana.

Gypsy Rose’s parole expires in 11 months, after which she and Urker intend to move into their new home.

Gypsy Rose is due in January 2025, which means she and Urker will have to commute between their parent’s homes for the first six months of their baby’s life.

Gypsy Rose takes Parenting Seriously.

Until then, Gypsy Gipsy is focussing on her own and her baby’s health. (She discovered the sex through a blood test but has yet to share the information publicly.)

“I’m making sure I’m taking my prenatal vitamins, and with the mood swings and the symptoms, I just haven’t even had any extra time to even communicate with anyone,” Gypsy told reporters.

“I’ve been quite busy. It was equally difficult to maintain silence about this. I wanted to reveal it on my terms and in a specific manner, but keeping this secret for so long was concerning.

I didn’t want it leaked. It would have taken away the excitement of disclosing it to my friends, family, and, eventually, the public.”

She continued, “I believe every parent wonders if they are ready. I am currently in therapy for my sanity and mental well-being, and I have ticked all of the boxes to ensure that I am stable. All I can say is that I have a solid support system, and Ken and I are doing quite well.”

Gypsy Rose earlier told Us Weekly that she hoped to become a mother when the time was right.

“I think that I’m going to be a good mother,” she told Us exclusively in May. “I think Ken would be a wonderful father, and so we’ll see what the future holds for us.”

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Geoff Brown

Geoff Thomas is a seasoned staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. With his sharp writing skills and deep understanding of SEO, he consistently delivers high-quality, engaging content that resonates with readers. Thomas’ articles are well-researched, informative, and written in a clear, concise style that keeps audiences hooked. His ability to craft compelling narratives while seamlessly incorporating relevant keywords has made him a valuable asset to the VORNews team.

Celebrity

Young Sheldon Cast: Where Are They Now?

Published

3 days ago

2024-12-04

Geoff Brown

“Young Sheldon,” the beloved spin-off of “The Big Bang Theory,” wrapped up its run in 2024, leaving fans curious about what its talented cast is up to now. This show chronicled Sheldon Cooper’s quirky childhood and introduced us to a cast of memorable characters portrayed by a talented ensemble. Let’s dive into what the “Young Sheldon” cast is doing today.

Iain Armitage (Sheldon Cooper)

Iain Armitage brought young Sheldon Cooper to life with incredible charm and precision. Starting in the role at nine years old, Armitage quickly became a household name. Now, at 16 years old, Iain continues to thrive. Recently, he’s explored theatre, attending performances like Jim Parsons’ play and sharing the stage with other talented actors.

His social media presence reveals his passion for acting and hobbies like music and nature. With a bright future ahead, fans eagerly await his next project.

Zoe Perry (Mary Cooper)

Zoe Perry, daughter of actor Laurie Metcalf (who played Mary Cooper in “The Big Bang Theory”), portrayed Sheldon’s devout and caring mother. Perry is exploring other acting opportunities after playing Mary Cooper for seven seasons.

While she hasn’t announced her next major role yet, Perry remains active in Hollywood. Her commanding performances suggest she’ll continue to book compelling roles that showcase her talent.

Lance Barber (George Cooper Sr.)

Lance Barber’s depiction of George Cooper Sr. was humorous and emotional, providing depth to Sheldon’s father’s complex character. Since the series finale, Barber has spent time with his family while scouting for new roles. Known for his versatility, fans expect him to appear in other TV dramas or comedies soon.

Raegan Revord (Missy Cooper)

Raegan Revord stole hearts as Missy Cooper, Sheldon’s spunky twin sister. Now 16 years old, she continues to make waves. Revord has hinted at future roles in TV and film, picking dynamic, fun characters.

Offscreen, she’s focused on her education and personal growth, balancing her teenage life with her acting career. Her charismatic performances make her a young actress to watch.

Montana Jordan (Georgie Cooper)

Montana Jordan matures alongside his character, Georgie, evolving from a rebellious teen to a young man with responsibilities. Post “Young Sheldon,” Montana aims for more significant roles in film and television. His Southern charm and comedic timing make him an exceptional talent in the entertainment industry.

He’s also active on social media, sharing snippets from his personal life and career updates.

Annie Potts (Meemaw)

Annie Potts brought warmth and humour to the role of Meemaw, Sheldon’s fiery grandmother. Potts, already an accomplished actress before “Young Sheldon,” continues to act in various projects. Known for her roles in classics like “Ghostbusters” and “Designing Women,” fans can’t get enough.

Outside acting, she often supports charities and engages in community work.

Emily Osment (Mandy McAllister)

Joining the show as Mandy, Emily Osment brought a fresh dynamic to the show’s final season. Many know her from “Hannah Montana” and “The Kominsky Method.” Since “Young Sheldon,” Osment has been busy. She’s reportedly filming upcoming projects and continues to engage with fans on social media, giving updates on her life and musings.

Matt Hobby (Pastor Jeff)

Matt Hobby’s portrayal of Pastor Jeff added humour and awkward charm to “Young Sheldon.” Post-show, he’s appeared in guest roles in other TV comedies. Matt brings quirky, relatable humour to every project he touches, and fans enjoy spotting him in both leading and supporting roles.

Wyatt McClure (Billy Sparks).

Who could forget Billy Sparks, Sheldon’s neighbourhood “frenemy”? Wyatt McClure, who played Billy, continues to act and grow in his career. At a young age, he continued to be involved in acting while balancing school. Fans hope to see more of McClure as he matures in the industry.

Jim Parsons (Narrator and Executive Producer)

While not part of the on-screen cast, Jim Parsons played a pivotal role as the narrator and executive producer of “Young Sheldon.” His voice tied the spin-off to “The Big Bang Theory” while providing insights into Sheldon’s thoughts.

Parsons has stayed busy with various projects, both acting and producing. His performances in theatres and feature films remind fans why he’s a Hollywood favourite.

Conclusion

The “Young Sheldon” cast has grown tremendously since the show aired in 2017. From theatre ventures to exciting upcoming roles, each actor builds their career while cementing the show’s legacy. As fans, we can’t wait to see where their journeys take them next. Keep an eye on these talented stars—they’re just getting started!

Geoff Brown

Celebrity

Gregg Wallace Sidelined From Masterchef Over Sexual Misconduct

Published

1 week ago

2024-11-29

Geoff Brown

Gregg Wallace allegedly used sexualised language and ‘people were uncomfortable

Gregg Wallace, a familiar face on BBC MasterChef, has found himself in hot water over allegations of inappropriate sexual comments. The TV host has left the program under claims of improper behaviour spanning 17 years.

The debate started when several claims of Wallace making improper sexual remarks to colleagues arose. Reports state that the claims cover 17 years and involve 13 people working on different shows he has directed.

According to Masterchef’s production firm Banijay UK, Wallace is co-operatively investigating the situation.

The charges have rocked fans of BBC MasterChef, who are accustomed to Wallace’s direct and impassioned on-screen attitude. Some defend him, while others consider this as still another instance of entertainment industry responsibility.

Social media has been abuzz with the accusations against Wallace. Opinions are divided; some support the host by saying cancel culture has gone too far, while others contend that major accusations require a response.

Greg Wallace Thanks Fans

Wallace thanked his fans on social media while still claiming innocence. However, as public personalities are all too well known, words cannot frequently change public opinion in the court of public opinion.

Gregg Wallace has been a mainstay on BBC MasterChef for years, providing co-host John Torode with vitality and charm.

His departure left a clear void. Series buffs wonder how the show will change without him.

The BBC itself struggles as well. Allegations connected to one of its well-known actors provide a negative picture of the network, particularly because the entertainment business is increasingly scrutinized for how it manages charges of misbehaviour.

After learning of the claims, BBC News—editorially autonomous from the larger company—started investigating Wallace in the summer. We have heard claims spanning five programs from 2005 to 2022.

A few employees have had more favourable interactions with Wallace.

One former employee of Inside the Factory told us he frequently cracked “bad jokes,” but it never went beyond that.

One former MasterChef employee stated nothing during her stay there seemed alarming. Another said she understood why some people would have felt uneasy, but his remarks lacked malice.

The circumstances between Gregg Wallace and BBC MasterChef show how even the entertainment business struggles with claims of misbehaviour. Wallace’s future rests in flux, but the larger debate about public personalities and responsibility continues.

One thing is certain: the era of unaccountability in entertainment is over, and even long-standing performers like Gregg Wallace are not exempt. Fans of the program will have to wait to see how this narrative evolves.