For years, it stood as a beloved Glasgow landmark, attracting visitors from across the globe and even drawing the attention of the legendary comedian Sir Billy Connolly himself, who posed proudly beside it. Now, the iconic 75BC mural, a towering tribute to the Big Yin, is vanishing from view, consigned to history as a massive new block of student flats rises before it.
A Temporary Tribute Now Obscured
Titled 75BC, this city centre artwork by renowned Scottish artist John Byrne was one of three spectacular 50-foot murals created in 2017 to celebrate Sir Billy Connolly's 75th birthday. These pieces formed part of Glasgow's celebrated City Centre Mural Trail, designed as temporary installations to enhance urban spaces.
Construction of the controversial 11-storey tower block at the corner of Osborne Street and Old Wynd has now mostly covered the vibrant artwork. Only the very top of Sir Billy's distinctive head remains visible, peeking out between concrete pillars, a ghostly reminder of the once-dominant portrait.
Community Campaigns and Planning Decisions
The future of the mural was considered during the planning stages for the new development. However, like all artworks on the Mural Trail, it was always intended to be temporary. This did not prevent local groups from attempting to preserve it.
The Merchant City and Trongate Community Council filed formal objections to the scheme, arguing passionately for the protection of Glasgow's mural heritage. In 2023, ahead of the planning committee meeting that would ultimately grant permission, they stated: ‘Many of Glasgow’s murals, including those paying tribute to Billy Connolly, are major tourist attractions, admired not only by residents but visitors from around the world. We have long campaigned for the finest of these artistic murals to be protected.’
Their efforts, however, were unsuccessful. The development proceeded, and the building, which will house 273 students upon completion, now dominates the site.
Sir Billy's Emotional Reaction
When Sir Billy Connolly visited the murals created in his honour in 2017, he was visibly moved. He expressed being ‘flabbergasted’ and ‘truly amazed at the effect these have had on me’.
Reflecting on the experience, the comedian 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 with characteristic warmth: ‘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.’
Glasgow's Other Connolly Tributes
While the 75BC mural fades behind new construction, Glasgow still boasts two other significant murals honouring Sir Billy Connolly. Dr Connolly, I Presume? by acclaimed artist Jack Vettriano is located on Dixon Street, while Big Yin by Rachel Maclean can be found in the Gallowgate area.
These works, based on original portraits by the artists, continue to draw admirers and serve as permanent fixtures in the city's cultural landscape, ensuring the comedian's legacy remains vividly present on Glasgow's streets even as one tribute disappears from view.
The transformation of this site highlights the ongoing tension between urban development and cultural preservation in growing cities. What was once a prime selfie spot and a point of civic pride has now become a memory, its visual impact surrendered to the demands of new housing and the inevitable evolution of the cityscape.
