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Satirist John Clarke was well-known to ABC audiences for his comedic partnership with Bryan Dawe. (ABC)
Celebrated satirist and comedian John Clarke has died suddenly, aged 68.
Clarke was born in New Zealand but made his name as a comedian and political satirist in Australia after arriving in the 1970s.For 27 years, he has appeared on Australian television conducting mock interviews and skewering politicians with his comedy partner, Bryan Dawe.
The pair was best known for the Clarke and Dawe segment on the ABC's 7.30 program.
Clarke was a man of diverse talents — a comedian, actor and writer of television, film and stage musicals.
He came to attention in his native New Zealand in the 1970s with the TV series Fred Dagg, a satirical take on the country bloke.
He co-wrote the multi-award winning mockumentary The Games, about the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, which aired in 1999 and 2000.
He also co-wrote stage musicals The Adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and Little Ragged Blossom.
His books included A Dagg at My Table, The Howard Miracle and The 7.56 Report.
Clarke was bushwalking in Victoria over the weekend when he died.
Politicians, sportspeople and members of the public have used social media to pay tribute to his contribution to Australia.
Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said Clarke was the "sharpest, driest wit on Aussie TV", and Greens leader Richard Di Natale called him a leading light of satire.
More to come.
Video: Clarke and Dawe: Company tax cuts have passed the pub test (Clarke and Dawe)
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