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Bert Newton's son Matthew will play an important role in his late father's funeral despite not being able to attend the service in Melbourne.
According to the Herald Sun, Matthew, who is now a director and writer residing in New York, and his sister Lauren have written letters which will be read at the service.
The showbiz legend will be laid to rest at Melbourne's St Patrick’s Cathedral at 10am on Friday.
Tribute: Bert Newton's son Matthew (pictured) will play key role at his late father's funeral in Melbourne despite not attending the service
The attendance list will be capped at 500 fully vaccinated guests, consisting of family, friends and colleagues.
Patti is understood to have chosen the hymns and prayers for the service.
Musical theatre star Rhonda Burchmore will reportedly read a passage from the Bible as part of the proceedings.
Earlier this month, Patti confirmed her son would not return to Melbourne from his home in New York to attend the star's funeral.
She also slammed recent media reports that her TV legend husband was estranged from their son.
'The press are just desperate to find a little glitch into (their relationship),' she told Daily Mail Australia.
According to the Herald Sun , Matthew, who is now a director and writer residing in New York, and his sister Lauren have written letters which will be read at the service
'He won't be coming. For no reason. I don't know, I mean maybe he needs to put a statement out to stop everybody thinking that there's a rift or something.'
Bert died aged 83 on Saturday after a well publicised battle with illness over recent months.
Such was his regard in his hometown of Melbourne, he will be farewelled in a state funeral in the coming days.
Matthew Newton in 2017. Little has been seen of him in recent years. His mum Patti has dismissed suggestions
