In a time when drag artists are being falsely accused of grooming and pedophilia, persecuted and losing rights, it is even more sorrowful to farewell a pioneer in the field of general and commercial entertainment.
Dame Edna Everage - megastar housewife from Moonee Ponds - was a regular fixture on Australian TV screens as well as the stage for literal decades. Humphries brought gentle satire, biting wit, and on point commentary to a nationwide audience, a groundbreaking presence that paved the way for others over time. While not queer himself, his work has softened access to opportunities for queer performers both in the antipodes and overseas. This was thanks in no small part to her oft-mentioned son Kenny, as her work often referred his wildly successful interior design business as well as life-long "friend".
A supportive, intelligent and incredibly hard working light has gone out in my personal firmament. Thank you for all your hard work Mr Humphries - I guess you are now burning a purple wig and gladioli in your personal fireplace.