Barry Humphries stable after scare, hospital confirms

After earlier reports the legendary comedian was unresponsive, Sydney’s St Vincent’s hospital confirmed the beloved entertainer — best known for playing Dame Edna — is “responsive” and “stable”.

Iconic Australian comedian Barry Humphries, best known for playing Dame Edna Everage, is in a stable condition in hospital after hip surgery complications.

A spokesman at Sydney’s St Vincent’s hospital told the Herald Sun that Humphries was “responsive”, “stable” and “comfortable” on Friday.

It comes after ABC Radio Sydney reported the 89-year-old was found in an “unresponsive state” on Thursday night.

In a statement on Wednesday, the legendary entertainer’s family said he was grateful for support from fans.

“Barry would like to thank everybody for the support and good wishes he’s received, but would like more and more,” it read.

“He would also like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at St Vincent’s hospital.”

Barry Humphries was rushed to hospital after complications with his hip replacement surgery. Picture: Lachie Millard

Humphries underwent hip replacement surgery in recent months but was readmitted to hospital on Wednesday.

The Melbourne-born star injured his hip in February when he tripped on a rug while reaching for a book.

Entertainment reporter Peter Ford told 3AW that Humphries was suffering with complications from the surgery.

“Barry is doing it really tough at the moment,” he said.

“Barry’s health has worsened in the week, he has been readmitted to hospital.

“He has not been in a good way all year and a lot of this is complications from hip replacement surgery, he tripped on a rug … next thing you know he is on this downward spiral.”

Humphries first appeared as Dame Edna in 1955. Picture: Rohan Kelly

Mr Ford said Humphries was in “absolute agony” but was determined to bounce back and go on tour at the end of the year.

“Whether that’s a realistic goal, I don’t know,” he said.

“It’s always good to have something to aim for, it’s not over until it’s over.

“But I’m told things are very serious with Barry’s health and all we can do is wish him well and great strength to him and his family.

“He is surrounded by great people, great medical team and we can only cross our fingers and hope for the best.”

Humphries lives in London with his wife Lizzie Spender but injured himself while on a holiday in Sydney.

He first appeared as Dame Edna in 1955 and Sir Les Patterson in 1974.

Originally published as Barry Humphries stable after scare, hospital confirms