Iconic Australian Politician Graham “Richo” Richardson Dies at 76
Graham “Richo” Richardson, former Labor senator, influential powerbroker, and political commentator, has died at the age of 76. Tributes are pouring in following his passing just days after he vowed to stay alive until his son completed his HSC exams.
Political Career and Legacy
Richardson served as a cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating governments and represented New South Wales as a Labor senator throughout his political tenure. After leaving parliament, he became a respected political commentator and a regular contributor to Sky News Australia.
Final Days and Family
He passed away early Saturday after battling long-term health problems. Despite his struggles, he was determined to see his son, D’Arcy, finish his HSC exams, which he accomplished on Thursday with his French exam.
“When he had his big health challenge, he said to his wife Amanda, ‘I’m going to live till I see Darcy finish exams and his HSC,’” said 2GB host Ben Fordham. “Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”
Richardson had suffered bouts of influenza, pneumonia, and had been undergoing dialysis. He is survived by his wife Amanda and their son D’Arcy, as well as a son and daughter from his first marriage.
“I’ve lost the love of my life. D’Arcy’s lost the greatest dad and Australia’s lost one of its best. He was a man ahead of his time,” Amanda Richardson said in a statement.
Rickardson’s impact on Australian politics and media remains significant, remembered as a pioneering and influential figure.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson, a key figure in Australian politics and media, passed away at 76 after fulfilling his promise to see his son complete his HSC exams, leaving a lasting political legacy.