Liverpool to erect Brian Epstein statue 

The former Beatles manager is to be immortalised in bronze on Whitechapel. 

Designed by Andy Edwards – the sculptor behind the Beatles statue at Pier Head and co-sculptor of the Cilla Black statue on Mathew Street – the Brian Epstein statue will measure almost two metres. 

The statue is to be positioned on Whitechapel at the foot of Button Street, under an application lodged with the city council by Liverpool BID Company. 

“It’s location on Whitechapel is massively significant,” according to a design and access statement by architect Brock Carmichael. 

This area of Liverpool is synonymous with the Beatles; the Cavern and NEMS record store – a family business started by Brian’s father Isaac – are located nearby. 

The positioning of the statue “offers authenticity and maximises the tourism/heritage opportunities for the area”, Brock Carmichael added. 

Epstein, often referred to as the fifth Beatle, managed the band from 1962 until his death in 1967 at the age of 32. 

He is considered as being instrumental in the band’s rise to fame. 

The £10,000 statue, which is being financed through crowdfunding, will be the first of a LGBTQ+ figure in Liverpool city centre. 

Tom Calderbank, who is leading the project, said: “More than 50 years after his death, Brian’s impact on the world is still being felt in so many ways. We’re honoured and humbled to have played a small part in recognising that.” 

Bill Addy, chief executive of Liverpool BID Company, said: “Liverpool is a city of performers and creative talent, but its cultural sector is also driven by people like Brian Epstein who see talent and champion it, who support our artists, who promote them and advocate for them. 

“You would never have The Beatles if it wasn’t for Brian Epstein and this statue is not simply to immortalise him, but also those countless thousands who make being an artist possible in this country.”