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. Known as a key figure within the Labor Party, he dedicated decades to Australian politics and media.
Richardson fell ill with the flu in September, and his condition worsened into pneumonia. He passed away around 3:50 a.m. on Saturday, having been in fragile health for years. He was first diagnosed with cancer in 1999 and underwent bowel removal surgery in 2016.
Before his death, Richardson told his wife, Amanda, that he intended to live long enough to see their son, D'Arcy, finish his HSC exams. D'Arcy completed his final French exam on Thursday, only days before his father’s passing.
“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,” said radio host Ben Fordham on 2GB. “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.”
Graham Richardson is remembered not only for his political influence and sharp commentary but also for his enduring dedication to his family.
Author’s Summary
Graham Richardson, a veteran Labor senator and commentator, died at 76 shortly after keeping a heartfelt promise to witness his son's exam milestone.