Australian Political Icon Dies at 76
Former Labor senator and influential political commentator Graham Richardson has passed away at the age of 76. Known as a key powerbroker within the Labor Party, Richardson died early Saturday morning after battling influenza and pneumonia.
His death occurred around 3:50 a.m. on Saturday, just two days after his teenage son Darcy completed his final HSC exam. Before he passed, Richardson told his wife Amanda that he intended to live long enough to see their son finish his studies.
“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,” said radio host Ben Fordham on 2GB, announcing the news.
Fordham added that in recent weeks Richardson had been struggling with influenza and pneumonia. He also underwent dialysis to help cleanse his blood.
Richardson had faced serious health challenges over the years. Diagnosed with cancer in 1999, he later underwent bowel removal surgery in 2016. Despite these difficulties, he remained active in political commentary up until recent times.
The family, pictured together at a movie premiere in November 2015, were reportedly close and supportive during his long health battles.
Author’s Summary
Graham Richardson, a respected Australian Labor figure and commentator, died at 76, keeping his final promise to live until his son completed school exams.