Eddie Large dies at 78 after contracting coronavirus
Comedian Eddie Large has died at the age of 78 after contracting the coronavirus.
The star’s son Ryan McGinnis made the sad announcement in a post on Facebook.
He said his dad – who made up comedy duo Little And Large with Syd Little – contracted the virus while he was in hospital.
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He said: “It is with great sadness that Mum and I need to announce that my dad, Edward McGinnis, passed away in the early hours of this morning.
"He had been suffering with heart failure and unfortunately, whilst in hospital, contracted the coronavirus, which his heart was sadly not strong enough to fight.”
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He went on: "Dad fought bravely for so long. Due to this horrible disease we had been unable to visit him at the hospital but all of the family and close friends spoke to him every day.
"We will miss him terribly and we are so proud of everything he achieved in his career with Syd and know that he was much loved by the millions that watched them every week.
"RIP Dad. We love you and miss you from all the family."
Comedian Matt Lucas was among those to pay tribute to the star.
He wrote on Twitter: “Eddie Large (along with his supersonic friend Syd) was really lovely and kind and encouraging to me when I was a nipper on Shooting Stars. So sad to hear of his passing.”
Eddie Large (along with his supersonic friend Syd) was really lovely and kind and encouraging to me when I was a nipper on Shooting Stars. So sad to hear of his passing.
— realmattlucas (@RealMattLucas) April 2, 2020
Funnyman Rory Bremner posted: “Sad to hear Eddie Large has died. One of the great 80s double-acts, no mean impressionist, and a lovely, funny man too. *steps back in amazement*.”
Sad to hear Eddie Large has died. One of the great 80s double-acts, no mean impressionist, and a lovely, funny man too. *steps back in amazement*
— Rory Bremner (@rorybremner) April 2, 2020
Large, whose real name was Edward Hugh McGinnis, formed the double act Little and Large with Syd Little in 1963.
They performed in clubs together and went on to win Opportunity Knocks in 1971.
They starred in many TV programmes and had their own series, The Little And Large Show.