Phryne Fisher Creator Kerry Greenwood Dies at 70

The Unbelievable News About Kerry Greenwood

It feels surreal even typing this. Kerry Greenwood, the brilliant mind behind the captivating Phryne Fisher mysteries, is gone. She passed away on March 26th at the age of 70, her partner, David Greagg, announced on her Facebook page. A private funeral was held. Honestly, who saw that coming? She was such a force, such a vibrant presence in the world of literature. The news hit hard, leaving a huge hole in the hearts of countless fans.

A Legacy Written in Ink and on Screen

Twenty-three Phryne Fisher novels. Over 1.4 million copies sold worldwide. That's the kind of legacy Kerry Greenwood left behind. And it's not just the books; the incredibly popular TV show, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, starring the fantastic Essie Davis, brought Phryne to life for a whole new generation. Then there was the feature film and even a Mandarin-language adaptation, Miss S. It's a testament to how universally loved her character and her stories truly were. Beyond Phryne, she also penned the Corinna Chapman novels and several plays. The woman was a powerhouse of creativity.

Outpouring of Love and Remembrance

The tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the globe—fans, fellow writers, actors, producers. It's truly heartwarming to see the impact she had on so many lives. Essie Davis’ Instagram post was particularly touching, praising Kerry for creating such a “powerful and positive” heroine. Producers Fiona Eagger and Deb Cox spoke beautifully about her kindness and support. Even her publisher, Allen & Unwin, announced that a new Phryne Fisher novel, Murder in the Cathedral, is coming out later this year—a fitting tribute, and it proves that her work will continue to resonate for years to come.

More Than Just a Writer: A Life Well-Lived

Kerry Greenwood wasn’t just a gifted author; she was also a lawyer, a solicitor who dedicated her life to justice. This commitment was recognized in 2020 with the Medal of the Order of Australia. And beyond the OAM, she received countless awards for her literary achievements. The Sisters in Crime Lifetime Achievement Award, for example. She was a true Renaissance woman, balancing a demanding career in law with her creative passion. Her dedication to both justice and storytelling is something to aspire to. Her strong female characters, her insightful writing, her sheer talent… they'll all continue to inspire generations of readers and writers. She'll be deeply missed.