Elton John paid tribute to Barry Humphries via video message during the late comedian's state memorial at the Sydney Opera House on Friday.
The Australian comedian, who was best known for the character Dame Edna Everage, died in April aged 89 after complications from hip surgery.
Hundreds of fans gathered at the Sydney Opera House on Friday to bid farewell to the beloved entertainer at the state memorial.
In a video tribute, John described Humphries as “a genius”, “a craftsman of incredible importance” and “one of the funniest people in the world”.
He continued, “It's sad that we won't see him again, but we have so many memories of him. His books, his TV appearances and his great jokes and the wonderful kindness he showed to me and everyone. I hope everyone is having the most great day there and we celebrate laughter because that's what Barry was all about.'
Elsewhere during the service, a speech by King Charles III was read by Employment Secretary Tony Burke.
In his tribute, the British monarch joked that “nobody was safe” from Humphries, who instilled both “fear and amusement” in his subjects.
“Barry Humphries, through his creations, has pushed and prodded us, staked claims, punctured pomposity, shown insecurities, but most of all made us laugh at ourselves,” he wrote, according to BBC News. “Like so many, I was deeply saddened by his passing. Life really won't be the same without him.”
Humphries, in character as Dame Edna, surprised Charles and his wife Camilla at the Royal Variety Performance in 2013 by appearing in their private box.
The entertainer is survived by his fourth wife Lizzie Spender, four children and 10 grandchildren.
