Australian Political Icon Graham Richardson Dies at 76
Former Labor senator and influential political commentator Graham Richardson has passed away at the age of 76. The longtime Labor powerbroker, known for his candid media presence, died around 3:50 a.m. on Saturday after a long battle with illness.
Final Days and Family Promise
Richardson became ill with the flu in September, which later developed into pneumonia. Despite his condition, he remained determined to fulfill a personal vow.
Before he died, Richardson told his wife Amanda he planned to live until their son Darcy finished his HSC exams.
Darcy completed his last French exam on Thursday, just days before his father’s passing.
Announcement and Tributes
The news of Richardson’s death was first shared on 2GB radio by host Ben Fordham on Saturday morning.
“Darcy and Amanda have asked me to share the news with everyone that, sadly, Richo has passed away in the early hours of this morning,” Fordham said. “In the past few weeks, he's had a bout of influenza and then pneumonia; he also underwent dialysis to help clean his blood.”
Long Battle with Illness
Richardson had struggled with health issues for many years. He was diagnosed with cancer in 1999 and underwent major surgery in 2016 to remove his bowel. Throughout these challenges, he continued to contribute to political commentary and public life.
He is survived by his wife Amanda and son Darcy.
Summary
Graham Richardson, respected former Labor senator and media figure, died at 76 after years of illness, having kept a promise to witness his son's final school exam.