Comedian Eddie Large dies of coronavirus at 78

Renowned British comedian of 1970-80, Eddie Large aka Hugh McGinnis, passed away after complications due to coronavirus. The 78-year-old was admitted to the hospital after heart failure and then he contracted coronavirus.

Explaining the same, Large's son Ryan McGinnis wrote on Facebook, “It is with great sadness that Mum and I need to announce that my dad 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. Dad had 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 each week,” he added.

Eddie Large teamed up with 'Syd Little' alias Cyril John Mead for a high-rating show viewed by millions in the 70s. The show was called 'Little and Large'. The duo had began their career in 1962, performing in pubs and clubs in north-west of England. Interestingly their pairing commenced with an arch rivalry, and soon Large called Little 'supersonic'. They had a successful career up until the 90s, but had to retire in 2001 after Large faced heart problems. He underwent transplant in 2002. Hugh is survived by his wife Patsy and three children.