Chat Show Host Sir Michael Parkinson Dies Aged 88

Popular British talk show host Sir Michael Parkinson, has died aged 88 following a brief illness, according to a statement shared by his family.

Parkinson's death was confirmed by his family, who had this to say.

“After a brief illness Sir Michael Parkinson passed away peacefully at home last night in the company of his family”, they said. “The family request that they are given privacy and time to grieve”. 

Sir Michael Parkinson enjoyed a hugely prosperous career in TV, working for seven decades, interviewing thousands of high profile guests, including boxing icon Muhammad Ali, Scottish comic Billy Connolly, as well as music stars Elton John, Madonna, George Michael and more.

He had previously worked with newspapers the Daily Express, and the Guardian, before moving into TV as a current affairs reporter for BBC and Granada. He was later recruited to host his own self-titled TV show, Parkinson. It is estimated that he interviewed over 2,000 guests in total. 

His show had initially ran for 11 years starting in 1971, before returning to the BBC in 1998. 

Parkinson also worked in Sky Arts, along with  ITV's TV-am breakfast show, Give Us a Clue, and BBC One's Going For a Song.

He was awarded a CBE in 2000, before being made a Knighthood in 2008. 

Such very sad breaking news that Sir Michael Parkinson has died. Have known him for many years, sang on his TV chat show & attended many events with him. A legendary interviewer that will be remembered as the best of his profession. We will never see his like again. RIP Michael. pic.twitter.com/zKBftfgvPi

— Elaine Paige (@elaine_paige) August 17, 2023