As the dust settles after the passing of legendary comedian Barry Humphries, many are left speculating how his $20 million fortune will be distributed among his wife, three ex-wives, four children, and ten grandchildren.
Barry's most famous character, Dame Edna Everage, propelled him to stardom and financial success. The comedian amassed his wealth through scriptwriting, world tours, books, and appearances as his iconic characters. Additionally, he co-founded the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 1987, solidifying his place as one of the world's most lucrative comedy acts.
However, questions linger over the inheritance of Barry's fortune. He notoriously informed his son Oscar that he was no longer an heir, though some reports suggest this decision was later reversed. Insiders admit, "There will be a lot of would-be heirs on tenterhooks."
Barry's fortune extends beyond his international career as a satirist. After a successful West End debut in London in the 1970s, he returned to Australia and, with Bruce Beresford and Phillip Adams, created and wrote The Adventures of Barry Mckenzie, which became the nation's most popular film at the time.
A self-proclaimed "bibliomaniac," Barry collected rare books, amassing around 25,000 volumes in his London home, many of which are first editions from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One source tells New Idea, "Libraries and museums around the world would be clamoring to get hold of his collection – they are priceless."
Art was another of Barry's passions, both as a collector of expensive works and as an acclaimed landscape painter. His art pieces have fetched considerable sums over the years. Barry's wealth further expanded when he portrayed the eccentric lawyer Claire Otoms on the hit television series Ally McBeal, earning him significant royalties.
Speculation also surrounds Barry and his wife Lizzie's West Hampstead home, which they owned for 40 years. Worth millions, insiders suggest Lizzie may consider selling the expansive property.
Given the difficulties Barry faced with his children over the years, sources predict that negotiations over his estate could be challenging. One insider reveals that he might leave his entire fortune to his fourth wife, Lizzie.
"Barry, at heart, was always a family man. There's hope old wounds will not affect his final wishes," the source says.