Legendary ‘Finding Nemo’ Actor Dead at 89

“Fish are friends, not food.”

In 2003, Disney and Pixar came out with their newest film, which took viewers under the sea and over to Australia. Finding Nemo told the story of Nemo and his dad, Marlin, clownfish who lived in the Great Barrier Reef. Nemo’s mother, as well as his siblings, died before he was born, so it’s just him and his dad. Marlin is very overprotective of Nemo, especially since one of Nemo’s fins is smaller than the other. They call it his lucky fin. One day, Nemo defies his dad, swims out in open water, and is caught in a net full of fish.

Credit: Disney/Pixar

Marlin sets off on a daring adventure to rescue Nemo. Along the way, he meets a friendly Blue Tang named Dory, who decides to help him. He also encounters some intimidating sharks — Bruce, Anchor, and Chum — who are not as dangerous as they look. Throughout his journey, Marlin does things he never thought he was capable of to rescue his son.

The film was a big hit, and the second-highest-grossing film, coming in behind The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King. Sadly, we have learned that one of the film’s lead actors has passed away at the age of 89.

Credit: Disney/Pixar

Australian comedian, Barry Humphries, voiced Bruce, the Great White Shark in Finding Nemo. Even though Bruce is scary, he and his friends help Marlin find Nemo, since they have made a pact to stop eating fish. Humphries was 89 years old. According to reports, Mr. Humphries had hip surgery and died in a hospital in Sydney, Australia, due to complications from that surgery.

Humphries’ family released a statement, sharing the news of his death, as well as their love for him.

“He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit. 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.”

Credit: Disney/Pixar

Mr. Humphries was a well-known actor in his country, famous for creating the character, Dame Edna Everage. Dame Edna was known for her light purple hair, her adorable “Hello, possums” greetings, and her hilarious roasting of celebrities. Dame Edna Everage was first introduced in 1955 and Humphries continued to portray Dame Edna until 2019. Humphries has nearly 100 credits to his name, including The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

In addition to voicing Bruce in the original film, Humphries reprised the role for the game Kinect Disneyland Adventures. His voice can also be heard on the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage attraction at Disneyland Park.

Credit: Disney

Humphries is survived by his wife, Lizzie Spender, as well as his children, Tessa, Oscar, Emily, and Rupert. He also has 10 grandchildren. His wife said that he was surrounded by family when he passed away.