The much-loved actor, author and comedian had been hospitalised earlier this week due to complications from a hip replacement surgery.

Humphries died on Saturday at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney surrounded by his immediate family, including his wife of 30 years Lizzie Spender, his children and 10 grandchildren.

"He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit," his family said in a statement on Saturday night.

"With over 70 years on the stage, he was an entertainer to his core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be.

"His audiences were precious to him, and he never took them for granted.

"Although he may be best remembered for his work in theatre, he was a painter, author, poet, and a collector and lover of art in all its forms.

"He was also a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a friend and confidant to many. His passing leaves a void in so many lives.

"The characters he created, which brought laughter to millions, will live on."

Mr Humphries became one of Australia's most successful entertainers with his Dame Edna character, who he created in the 1950s.

Dame Edna was critically acclaimed and an international success across television, film and the stage.

Mr Humphries' repertoire of famous characters also included Sir Les Patterson and Sandy Stone.

Mr Humphries featured in blockbuster films The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Finding Nemo and Nicholas Nickleby.

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He also wrote and starred in many of his own films such as Barry McKenzie Holds His Own, The Adventures of Barry McKenzie and Les Patterson Saves the World.

He was made an Officer of the Order of Australia and named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire, or CBE.

Mr Humphries was born in Melbourne, Victoria on February 17, 1934.

He attended Melbourne Grammar School and studied arts and law at the University of Melbourne.

Mr Humphries had four children and married his fourth wife, British actress Elizabeth Spender in 1990.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was one of the first to share a tribute to Humphries, posting that of all the personas he played, "the brightest star in that galaxy was always Barry".