20 April 2023 , 11:48
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The family of Australian comedian Barry Humphries have rushed to his bedside as the entertainer is in a 'serious' condition.
Barry's estranged daughter, who he reportedly had an ongoing feud with, is said to have jumped on an airplane to be by her ill father's bedside.
The comedian, who is best known as character Dame Edna Everage, recently underwent hip replacement surgery but was readmitted to St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney earlier this week due to complications.
It was announced on Wednesday that the much-loved comedian is 'comfortable' and surrounded by loved ones in hospital – with the comedian's family breaking their silence with a message from Barry.
Barry's estranged daughter, Emily, who Humphries is said to have not spoken to for over 20 years has rushed to be with him.
Barry Humphries, 89, rushed to hospital as family gather at Dame Edna's bedside
Barry was rescued by a helicopter after the fall in Cornwall (WireImage)
The Dame Edna star's family revealed in a statement he was suffering with 'health issues' (Getty Images)Peter Ford, a reporter at Channel Seven's Sunrise, told The Sun: "I'm pleased to say that the estrangement has now been patched up, that's a good thing".
The much-loved star's sons, Oscar and Rupert, also flew from London to Sydney on Monday after doctors advised them to be with their beloved dad amid his condition.
Entertainment reporter also detailed the 89-year-old comedian's condition.
He tweeted a clip from the show and wrote: "Statement to media due to be released shortly. At this moment Barry is a serious condition but being kept comfortable. He's surrounded by family."
Barry Humphries, also known for his Dame Edna alter ego, has faced a number of health battles (Getty Images)
Barry, who is also known for his Sir Les Patterson character, returned to hospital following complications from a hip replacement surgery.
"Barry won’t give up easily. Barry has something marked on his calendar and that is to say he'll be back on stage before the end of the year," Ford said.
"He's been travelling around the UK last year doing a one man show, largely sitting in a chair and talking about the great characters he's created through the years.
"Whether that's a realistic goal for Barry, I don't know, but either way it's not over until it's over but I am told Barry's health has worsened in the last week."
Ford also said things 'are tough; for the comedian but added: "I reckon Barry has a fighting spirit and he's not going to give up easily."
Barry Humphries' family break silence as Dame Edna star in 'serious condition'
Comedian Barry broke his hip after a fall (Mike Marsland/WireImage)
Barry Humphries with wife Lizzie Spender (Getty Images)When asked how long Barry would be hospitalised for, Ford said things were 'up in the air' and added: "There are very serious concerns about what happens next - it is a very tough time at the moment.
"But he's got great care, he's got fantastic medical team behind him. His family and friends – closest family – are rallying behind him."
Barry's family have since broken their silence and released a statement, which was read out on Australia's 10 News First.
The statement read: "Barry Humphries is currently in hospital receiving treatment for health issues.
"Barry would like to thank everybody for the support and good wishes he's received but would like more and more."
Lizzie is with Barry by his bedside (Dave Benett/Getty Images)"He would also like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at St Vincent's Hospital."
Last week, journalist Andrew Neil revealed he had visited Barry in hospital.
Andrew, 73, tweeted on Saturday: "Visited legendary Barry Humphries in Sydney hospital during my Oz trip. As always he had me in stitches even though he’s been undergoing various treatments for months in hospital. I am in awe of his courage. And, of course, his humour, which is irrepressible, even in adversity."
The comedian has been living in London for over 40 years alongside his wife, Lizzie Spencer, but was reportedly spending time in Sydney for the summer before the accident took place.