Barry Humphries: Comedian and Dame Edna star dies aged 89

The Australian died days after being discharged from surgery

He was 89.

The Australian comedian was taken to hospital days after being discharged from surgery, but was readmitted due to complications.

Humphries tripped on a rug while grabbing a book in February and was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in Darlinghurst, New South Wales, for hip replacement surgery.

Humphries played the beloved Dame Edna on TV and stage for over 60 years.

She was famed for the greeting, "Hello possums!"

Humphries also played Sir Les Patterson, an unkempt, uncultured character who held multiple fictional diplomatic positions like the cultural attaché to the Far East and minister for the yartz (arts).

Piers Morgan was among fans to pay tribute to the star on Saturday, writing: "One of the funniest people I’ve ever met. A wondrously intelligent, entertaining, daring, provocative, mischievous comedy genius. As hilarious in private as he was as the iconic Dame Edna. What a life, what a character. Thanks for all the laughs, Barry."