Elton John pays tribute to late 'genius' Barry Humphries during state memorial

Elton John paid tribute to Barry Humphries via a video message during the late comedian's state memorial at the Sydney Opera House on Friday.

The Australian funnyman, who was best known for the character Dame Edna Everage, passed away in April aged 89 following complications from hip surgery.

Hundreds of fans gathered at the Sydney Opera House on Friday to wish farewell to the beloved entertainer at the state memorial.

In a video tribute, John described Humphries as a "genius", "a raconteur of incredible importance", and "one of the funniest people in the world".

He continued, "It is sad that we won't be seeing him again but we have so many memories of him. His books, his TV appearances, and the wonderful jokes and wonderful kindness that he showed to me and everyone. I hope you all have the most wonderful day there and celebrate laughter because that was what Barry was all about."

Elsewhere during the service, a speech by King Charles III was read out by Employment Minister Tony Burke.

In his tribute, the British monarch joked that "no-one was safe" from Humphries, who instilled both "fear and fun" in his subjects.

"Barry Humphries, through his creations, poked and prodded us, exposed pretensions, punctured pomposity, surfaced insecurities, but most of all, made us laugh at ourselves," he wrote, reports BBC News. "Like so many, I have been 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 2013 Royal Variety Performance by appearing in their private box.

The entertainer is survived by his fourth wife Lizzie Spender, four children and 10 grandchildren.