Australian political icon Graham Richardson dies at 76
Graham Richardson, a former Labor senator, influential party figure, and respected political commentator, has died at the age of 76.
Final days and family promise
Richardson fell ill with the flu in September, which later developed into pneumonia. He passed away around 3:50 a.m. on Saturday. Before his death, he told his wife Amanda that he intended to live until their son D'Arcy completed his HSC exams. D'Arcy finished his final French exam on Thursday, just two days before his father’s passing.
Announcement of his death
News of his death was shared on the radio station 2GB on Saturday morning when host Ben Fordham informed listeners of the sad event.
“D'Arcy 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 had a little stint on dialysis, trying to clean up his blood a little bit.”
Health struggles and political legacy
Richardson had faced serious health challenges for many years. He was first diagnosed with cancer in 1999 and underwent surgery to remove his bowel in 2016. Despite these difficulties, he remained an active voice in Australian politics and media commentary.
- Former Labor senator and strategist
- Prominent media commentator and columnist
- Longtime advocate for the Labor movement
Graham Richardson was photographed with his wife Amanda at a film premiere in November 2015, reflecting the close bond of his family.
Author’s Summary
Graham Richardson, a veteran Labor figure and commentator, passed away at 76 after battling illness, leaving behind a lasting political and personal legacy.