Frank Carson was born on June 11, 1926 in Belfast, County Down, Northern Ireland, UK.
The meeting between Queen Elizabeth II and comedian Frank Carson in Blackpool highlights the town’s significance in the British entertainment landscape. This encounter took place during the Queen’s visit to Blackpool in December 1994, when she attended the Royal Variety Performance, an annual event showcasing a wide range of entertainment acts for charity. Accompanying the Queen was Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, underscoring the importance of the occasion and their joint commitment to supporting the arts. Frank Carson, a beloved Northern Irish comedian known for his quick wit and catchphrase “It’s the way I tell ’em!”, was one of the performers at the Royal Variety Performance that year. The Queen’s attendance at the event, along with Prince Philip, underscored the importance of Blackpool as a hub for entertainment in the UK.
The meeting between the Queen and Carson was marked by a light-hearted and jovial atmosphere, reflecting Carson’s comedic persona. Known for his engaging personality, Carson reportedly shared a few jokes with the Queen and Prince Philip, embodying his trademark humor and charm. This encounter highlighted not only Carson’s popularity but also the unique ability of comedy to bridge gaps and bring people together, regardless of status or background. The Royal Variety Performance itself is a prestigious event that has been held annually since 1912, and it draws top performers from across the entertainment industry. Blackpool, with its rich history of variety shows, theatres, and a vibrant entertainment scene, has hosted this event multiple times, solidifying its reputation as a cultural landmark in the UK. The Queen meeting Frank Carson in Blackpool is remembered as a moment that brought together royalty and entertainment, symbolizing the mutual respect and appreciation between the monarchy and the performing arts. It serves as a reminder of Blackpool’s enduring legacy as a cornerstone of British entertainment and its role in hosting significant cultural events.
Inset Photo: Irish comedian Frank Carson pictured at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. The veteran comedian and entertainer was promoting his forthcoming show entitled the Best of British Variety Tour 2008, which runs at venues across England and Wales during August and September. Also appearing on the bill were Paul Daniels, Jimmy Cricket, Cannon & Ball, the Krankies and Brotherhood of Man.
