Michael Parkinson’s greatest moments

As well as interviewing stars including James Cagney, Shirley MacLaine, Bette Davis, Billy Connolly, Madonna and Tom Cruise, he famously almost came to blows with boxer Muhammad Ali (reportedly his favourite interviewee) in 1974 and was mauled by Rod Hull’s puppet, Emu, in 1976. He is estimated to have interviewed 2,000 guests over his distinguished career.

Born in Cudworth, South Yorkshire, in 1935, Parkinson followed a stint in the British army with a career in print journalism – initially on local newspapers and then on the Manchester Guardian and Daily Express. His move into broadcasting started with a late-night film review show for Granada Television before a hop over to the BBC resulted in the launch of his eponymous chat show in 1971.

As well as hosting multiple reboots of his BBC chat show, Parkinson appeared on ITV’s TV-am breakfast show as well as hosting numerous radio programmes including Desert Island Discs for Radio 4.

The presenter was made a CBE in 2000 and knighted in 2008.

In 2013, Parkinson underwent radiotherapy for prostate cancer and was given the all-clear two years later.

Tributes have been pouring in, with comedian Eddie Izzard calling the presenter “the king of the intelligent interview” and Stephen Fry commenting that “the genius of Parky was that unlike most people … he was always 100% himself. On camera and off”.

This is thought to be the oldest surviving Parkinson show clip.

Ali appeared on Parkinson four times in total and here talks about his fight for civil rights.

The actor/director insisted Parkinson rip up his list of questions before the interview, saying “We’ll talk.”

Holding the record for the most appearances, Connolly appeared on Parkinson 15 times in all, including on the penultimate show in 2007.

The focus on Mirren’s “physical attributes” over her acting ability may not have aged well but is still compelling television.

The Hollywood legend, according to Parky, was the guest who “more than anyone, made it clear she was there to plug a product, not because she was your buddy.”

“I knew we should never have booked it” gasps Parky in this classic clip of bird-on-man action.

The awkward moment when Parkinson mentions Allen’s custody battle.

The ‘difficult’ interview for which Parky later apologised to Ryan.

The singer opens up about his drug issues and more.