Pryme was born in the coastal Taranaki town of Waitara, where the primary form of employment was the Borthwick’s Freezing Works. He worked his way up the entertainment world ladder starting with Colin King’s rock and roll band, the Harmonisers.[1]
Later in life, Pryme opened up about living as a closeted gay man.[3]
Pryme died of AIDS on 23 April 1990, a week after his partner of many years Jeff Fowler also died of AIDS on 16 April 1990, aged 32. His last days were recorded in a documentary, Lew Pryme — Welcome to my World.[4]
