Glasgow murals leave Billy Connolly 'flabbergasted'

Authored by bbc.co.uk and submitted by WholemealBred

Media playback is unsupported on your device Media caption Billy Connolly 'overjoyed' with Glasgow murals

Comedian Billy Connolly has said he is "flabbergasted" by three giant murals in his honour.

The tribute portraits have been created in his native city of Glasgow to mark the Big Yin's 75th birthday.

Visiting the murals, he said: "I'm truly amazed at the effect these have had on me. They've just completely stunned me.

"I thought I'd be all light-hearted on seeing them and jokey - but they're so big - the effect on me is so profound."

He added: "You know, people going to that length for me, it's just taken my breath away.

"I'm just flabbergasted, overjoyed, it's been a brilliant experience - being painted and otherwise by these genius people taking the time to do it. It just takes my breath away, I love it."

Image copyright Martin Shields Image caption John Byrne's portrait is showcased in Osborne Street in Glasgow city centre

Image copyright Martin Shields Image caption Jack Vettriano's portrait is on a wall end in Dixon Street

Image copyright Martin Shields Image caption Rachel Maclean's digital print is on display in Gallowgate

The murals, which are more than 50ft (15m) high, have been created by BBC Scotland together with Glasgow City Council and arts project manager Art Pistol Projects.

They are based on original portraits of Billy from top Scottish artists - John Byrne, Jack Vettriano and Rachel Maclean - commissioned by BBC Scotland.

The story of the artworks will be told in the programme Billy Connolly: Portrait of a Lifetime, to be screened on BBC One Scotland on Wednesday.

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definitiveuncannyone on June 11st, 2017 at 15:32 UTC »

He should have a run around Glasgow naked like he did with Stonehenge. 75 years old just means you can pretend you did it because you're old and didn't know what was happening.

gonzo1973 on June 11st, 2017 at 15:13 UTC »

Happy Birthday Billy, one of the great comedians of our time. Also a great musician. He gave me many a laugh.

KeeperofAmmut7 on June 11st, 2017 at 15:12 UTC »

Aww. That's sweet. I just can't believe he's 75 though.