Australian cartoonist and poet Michael Leunig dies aged 79

Leunig passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday.

Australian cartoonist Michael Leunig has died, aged 79.

Leunig passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday.

The Leunig Studio Instagram page wrote: “The pen has run dry, its ink no longer flowing — yet Mr. Curly and his ducks will remain etched in our hearts, cherished and eternal.

“Michael Leunig passed away peacefully today, in the early hours of December 19, 2024. “During his final days, he was surrounded by his children, loved ones, and sunflowers — accompanied as ever, by his dear old friends, Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven.”

Holy Fool by Michael Leunig.

Leunig’s career spanned five decades. His work featured in The Age for nearly 55 years.

Leunig was controversially stood down at The Age in September this year, after some of his cartoons were thought to be too politically sensitive.

Herald Sun cartoonist Mark Knight paid tribute to Leunig.

“It is a great loss, he was referred to as a national treasure and he was,” Knight said.

“As a kid I would buy his books – the famous Penguin Leunig was my great introduction to cartoons.

“I owe him a debt of gratitude. “He had controversies with his cartoons, but I think he is bigger and more profound than cancel culture.”

Love Prevails, a cartoon by Australian artist, poet, cultural commentator and cartoonist Michael Leunig.