'Shut up and retire!' Veteran comedian Barry Humphries, 84, faces backlash after saying transgenderism is a 'fashion' and 'evil when preached by crazy teachers'

Humphries is from a generation that has not been terrorized  by Leftist dictators

Veteran comedian Barry Humphries is facing backlash for 'anti-trans' comments he has made in an interview with The Spectator.

The 84-year-old - who is known for dressing up in drag to portray his famous character Dame Edna Everage - told the British paper on Saturday that transgenderism is 'pretty evil when it's preached to children by crazy teachers'.

Following publication of his comments, the Australian star was hit with backlash on social media, with one writing: 'Shut up and retire'.

Barry was interviewed by The Spectator about his new stage show when his contentious views about transgenderism were brought up.

In 2016, the funnyman caused outrage after describing gender reassignment surgery as 'self-mutilation', and it appears he has now doubled down on his opinion.

'They had their genitalia chopped off and tucked in and whatever they had to do. And that aroused a lot of indignation — probably among the people who'd spent a lot of money having it done,' Barry told The Spectator on Saturday.

He further labelled transgenderism 'a fashion' and asked: 'How many different kinds of lavatory can you have?'

Many on Twitter criticised the icon for his views, with one writing: '@Barry_Humphries you are my idol. You broke ground, you broke rules, you p**sed off the establishment. You defined Australian culture. You have a lifetime of achievements. And now this will be your legacy. You've become the people you used to make fun of. Shut up and retire.' 

However, a number of social media users defended the star, claiming that he has the right to express his opinions. 

One claimed: 'Barry Humphries should be recognised for his artistic brilliance, NOT his personal views. You are then imposing your views on him, expecting him to bleat with the left leaning sheep. He will not do it, nor should he.'

SOURCE