Crossword Genius

Famous English pit theatre (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eminent

'famous' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'english pit theatre' is the wordplay.
'english' becomes 'E' (abbreviation).
'pit' becomes 'mine' (mining pit).
'theatre' becomes 'nt' (National Theatre).
'e'+'mine'+'nt'='EMINENT'

(Other definitions for eminent that I've seen before include "Noted" , "Exalted in rank" , "Distinguished, prominent" , "Respected; distinguished" , "Famous and respected" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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