The most prominent 12-foot landmark in Times Square is the George M. Cohan Statue, located in Duffy Square (the northern triangle of Times Square between 46th and 47th Streets). While the bronze figure itself is approximately 8 feet tall, its massive granite pedestal brings the total monument height to roughly 12 to 15 feet, making it the definitive permanent statue of an entertainer in the heart of New York City’s theater district.
As of 2026, this monument remains the primary focal point for theater lovers and historians alike. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the George M. Cohan memorial, the neighboring Father Duffy statue, and the logistical details for visiting these iconic bronze sentinels of the "Great White Way."
The Identity of the 12-Foot Monument: George M. Cohan
When visitors search for the "12-foot statue" in Times Square, they are almost universally referring to the memorial of George M. Cohan (1878–1942). Known as "The Man Who Owned Broadway," Cohan was a prolific actor, playwright, composer, lyricist, and producer who essentially defined the American musical comedy.
The statue was dedicated on July 2, 1959, and remains the only statue of a Broadway performer in Times Square. It was designed by the sculptor Georg John Lober and architect Otto Langman. The monument was funded through the efforts of the "Cohan Memorial Committee," a group of theater luminaries led by Oscar Hammerstein II.
Artistic Specifications and Design
The Cohan statue is a masterwork of mid-century bronze casting. Lober depicted Cohan in a characteristic pose: relaxed, with one hand in his pocket and the other holding a cane and a straw boater hat. This "casual elegance" was a hallmark of Cohan’s stage persona.
- Material: The figure is cast in bronze, which has developed a distinct green patina over the decades due to exposure to the elements and the high-traffic environment of Midtown Manhattan.
- Dimensions: The bronze figure stands approximately 8 feet tall. However, it sits atop a high, polished granite plinth. The combined height of the base and the figure creates a 12-to-15-foot vertical presence that ensures it is visible even amidst the dense crowds of Duffy Square.
- The Inscription: On the front of the pedestal, the monument bears Cohan's name and his most famous song title: "Give My Regards to Broadway." The back of the monument lists his other hits, including "You’re a Grand Old Flag" and "Over There."
The Neighboring Icon: The Father Duffy Statue
Directly north of the Cohan monument stands its companion, the Father Francis P. Duffy Statue. While the search for a "12-foot statue" usually leads to Cohan, Father Duffy is equally imposing and holds significant historical weight.
Francis P. Duffy was the chaplain for the "Fighting 69th" (the 165th Infantry Regiment) during World War I. He became the most highly decorated cleric in the history of the United States Army. Following the war, he served as the pastor of Holy Cross Church on West 42nd Street, becoming a beloved figure in the Times Square community.
The Duffy statue, dedicated in 1937, predates the Cohan memorial. It was sculpted by Charles Keck and depicts Duffy in his military uniform, standing in front of a large granite Celtic cross. Like the Cohan statue, the total height of the bronze figure plus the monumental cross and base exceeds 15 feet, making it a massive physical presence in the square.
Comparing the Permanent Statues of Duffy Square
| Feature | George M. Cohan Statue | Father Francis P. Duffy Statue |
|---|---|---|
| Dedication Year | 1959 | 1937 |
| Sculptor | Georg John Lober | Charles Keck |
| Primary Material | Bronze on Granite | Bronze on Granite (with Celtic Cross) |
| Subject Profession | Actor, Composer, Producer | Military Chaplain, Catholic Priest |
| Visual Style | Relaxed, Broadway "Hoofing" Pose | Sturdy, Military/Religious Stoicism |
| Exact Location | 46th St. and Broadway | 47th St. and Broadway |
| Significance | Entertainment and Broadway History | Military Service and Community Leadership |
Visiting Guide: Logistics and Access in 2026
Duffy Square is a pedestrianized zone, meaning you can walk directly up to the base of both statues. As of 2026, the area remains one of the most visited patches of land in the world.
Best Times to Visit
To truly appreciate the detail of the statues without being jostled by the crowd, aim for early morning hours (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM). At this time, the light from the rising sun hits the statues from the east (Broadway side), providing excellent conditions for photography.
Evening visits offer a different experience. The statues are illuminated by the massive LED billboards of Times Square, creating a high-contrast, "cyberpunk" aesthetic that is popular for modern photography. However, the density of pedestrians is highest between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM.
Navigating the Red Steps
The Cohan and Duffy statues are situated just south of the famous TKTS Red Steps. These steps provide a tiered seating area where you can sit and look down upon the statues and the activity of the square.
- Enter from the South: Walk up Broadway from 42nd Street. You will pass through the main plaza before reaching the Cohan statue at 46th.
- Security and Crowds: Times Square is heavily monitored by the NYPD. Be aware of your surroundings, as the area near the statues is a common spot for street performers and costumed characters.
- Accessibility: The entire plaza surrounding the statues is flat and ADA-compliant. There are no stairs required to reach the base of the Cohan or Duffy monuments.
Why These Statues Matter in 2026
In an era dominated by digital screens and virtual reality, the physical presence of these 12-foot bronze monuments serves as a vital anchor to New York’s history.
The Cohan Legacy
George M. Cohan is credited with inventing the "book musical"—a show where the songs and dances are integrated into the plot rather than being a series of unrelated sketches. Every time a tourist visits a Broadway show today, they are experiencing the legacy of the man immortalized in bronze at 46th Street. The statue serves as a permanent "thank you" from the theater community to its founding father.
The Duffy Legacy
Father Duffy represents the soul of the neighborhood. Before it was a global tourism hub, Times Square (previously Longacre Square) was a neighborhood of immigrants and workers. Duffy’s presence reminds visitors of the human element and the sacrifices made by New Yorkers during the World Wars.
Common Misconceptions and Temporary Exhibits
It is important to distinguish the permanent 12-foot bronze statues from the Times Square Arts program. Frequently, Times Square hosts temporary, massive art installations that may be 12 feet, 20 feet, or even 40 feet tall.
- King Nyani: In previous years, a massive 23-foot bronze gorilla was installed near the square. While popular, it was a temporary exhibit and has since moved.
- The Fearless Girl: Many visitors look for the "Fearless Girl" statue in Times Square. As of 2026, she remains in her permanent home in front of the New York Stock Exchange in Lower Manhattan, not in Times Square.
- The Midnight Moment: This is a digital art synchronized display on the billboards, not a physical statue.
If you are looking for a "12-foot statue" that is currently standing and permanent, the George M. Cohan monument is your primary target.
Photography Tips for the 12-Foot Monuments
Capturing a high-quality photo of the Cohan or Duffy statues can be challenging due to the constant motion of crowds and the overwhelming light from the screens.
- Use a Wide-Angle Lens: To get the full 12-to-15-foot height of the Cohan monument plus the surrounding neon lights, a wide-angle lens (16mm to 24mm) is essential.
- Low-Angle Shooting: Kneel down near the base of the granite pedestal. Shooting upward makes the 12-foot structure look even more heroic and helps crop out the feet of other tourists in the background.
- Long Exposure: If you have a tripod or a steady surface, a 2-to-5-second exposure at night will blur the moving crowds into "ghosts," leaving the solid bronze statue sharp and dominant in the frame.
Nearby Attractions within Walking Distance
After visiting the statues in Duffy Square, you are within a two-minute walk of several other major New York landmarks:
- The TKTS Booth: Located directly behind the Father Duffy statue, this is where you can purchase discounted Broadway tickets.
- The Palace Theatre: A historic theater located directly across from the Cohan statue.
- The Midnight Moment: If you are there at 11:57 PM, the billboards sync for a three-minute digital art show.
- The Broadway Visitor Center: Located nearby on 44th Street, offering more in-depth history on the figures depicted in the statues.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the man in the statue in Times Square?
The most famous statue depicts George M. Cohan, a legendary Broadway composer and performer. The other major statue in the same area (Duffy Square) depicts Father Francis P. Duffy, a celebrated WWI chaplain and local priest.
Is there a 12-foot statue of a girl in Times Square?
No. The "Fearless Girl" statue is located at the New York Stock Exchange in the Financial District. Occasionally, temporary exhibits in Times Square feature large female figures, but none are permanent fixtures.
Can I touch the statues?
While you can walk right up to the granite pedestals, the bronze figures themselves are elevated. It is generally discouraged to climb on the monuments as they are protected historical landmarks maintained by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.
Where exactly is the George M. Cohan statue?
It is located at the intersection of Broadway and West 46th Street in the section of Times Square known as Duffy Square. It is directly south of the TKTS red steps.
What does the inscription "Give My Regards to Broadway" mean?
This was George M. Cohan's signature song from his 1904 musical Little Johnny Jones. It became the unofficial anthem of the New York theater district and is etched into the statue's base to honor his contribution to American culture.
Final Recommendation
To get the most out of your visit to the 12-foot George M. Cohan statue, arrive at Duffy Square by 8:30 AM. Spend fifteen minutes observing the intricate details of Lober's bronze work, then walk thirty feet north to pay respects to the Father Duffy memorial. By 9:00 AM, you will be perfectly positioned to join the line at the TKTS booth or head to a nearby cafe before the mid-morning rush transforms the square into the bustling epicenter of Manhattan.
