Official UK public portrait of popular British comedian is set to be unveiled in Blackpool. 

The family of popular British comedian, Eddie Large has announced the unveiling of the star’s Official UK Public Portrait. The ceremony will take place at an invitation only event in Blackpool on Saturday 2 April.
 
The portrait has been painted by renowned artist, Robert Newbiggin and will be on public display for everyone to enjoy in the Floral Hall following the private unveiling ceremony.
 
Eddie Large, born Edward Hugh McGinnis was better known as one half of the double act Little and Large, with Syd Little. Together they graced the stages of Blackpool over a span of twenty years, performing in six Blackpool summer seasons and making over 1000 appearances in the resort as top of the bill. Appearing at the Opera House six times between 1979 and 1996, Little and Large also
performed at the North Pier, Grand Theatre and Pleasure Beach’s Paradise Room during their Blackpool summer seasons and became a much loved part of the Blackpool entertainment scene.
 
Ryan McGinnis, Eddie Large’s son, speaking on behalf of the family said: “We are so happy to be able to celebrate my Dad in this way. His passing during Covid was so difficult for us as a family, but being here in Blackpool, remembering the good times and what an important part Little and Large played in UK popular entertainment means a huge amount to us.”
 
Showtown, Blackpool’s first museum of fun and entertainment will celebrate comedians like Little and Large and their significance to Blackpool when its doors open in 2023. Sharing stories, fun and laughter with the people of Blackpool and visitors to the town, the museum will celebrate the greatest show town on earth.

Inside you’ll find six galleries on seaside holidays, magic, circus, shows, dance and the illuminations. Showtown will take you backstage, celebrating the singers, the dancers, the magicians and musicians, the clowns, the comedians, the entertainers, and acrobats who all helped to turn Blackpool into the home of show business.
 
Speaking of the new portrait and its place within the Winter Gardens, Cllr Lynn Williams said: “Showtown is all about fun and Blackpool’s important role in the development of UK popular entertainment. Little and Large were a vital part of that world and it’s entirely appropriate that the portrait will be on public display here in the Winter Gardens where Eddie and Syd performed on so many occasions.”
 
Spencer Philips, Chairman of the Board for Showtown said: “It has been an absolute joy to work with Eddie’s family to make this happen. Working with entertainers, performers and their families is fundamental to our approach to tell the personal stories, highlighting how Blackpool has touched the lives of millions of people be they visitors, entertainers, celebrities or residents. Being part of Showtown is like being part of one big family and it’s great to be able to embrace Little and Large as part of our family.”