Barry Humphries death – latest: Matt Lucas and Jimmy Carr lead tributes to ‘lovely’ Dame Edna star

Tributes from across the entertainment industry are flooding in following the death of Barry Humphries.

The Australian comedy legend died aged 89 in a Sydney hospital surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday (22 April).

His family said in a statement that Humphries “was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit”.

The star’s death follows reports earlier this week that he had been admitted to hospital with “serious health problems” following complications with a recent hip replacement surgery.

Across his seven-decade career, Humphries became best known for his creations Sir Les Patterson and Dame Edna Everage.

His other credits include appearances in Bedazzled (1967), Spice World (1997), The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012), and Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie (2016) and Finding Nemo (2003).

Matt Lucas, Carol Vorderman and Rob Brydon are among the industry figures to have paid tribute to Humphries.

Scroll down for live updates and tributes to the comedian and actor as they come in.

Comedian’s family issues statement

14:32 , Annabel Nugent

Barry Humphries’ family issued a statement announcing the comedian’s death.

Read the statement in full: “He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit.

“With over ​70 years on the stage, he was an entertainer to his core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be.”

“His audiences were precious to him, and he never took them for granted. Although he may be best remembered for his work in theatre, he was a painter, author, poet, and a collector and lover of ​a​​​​rt in all its forms.​

“He was also a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a friend and confidant to many. His passing leaves a void in so many lives.

“The characters he created, which brought laughter to millions, will live on.”

Ricky Gervais remembers ‘comedy genius'

14:27 , Annabel Nugent

Ricky Gervais was one of the first to pay tribute to Barry Humphries.

The Office star wrote on Twitter: “Farewell, Barry Humphries, you comedy genius.”