“After a brief illness Sir Michael Parkinson passed away peacefully at home last night in the company of his family,” the statement said. “The family request that they are given privacy and time to grieve.”
A representative for Parkinson did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
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Michael Parkinson interviews John Wayne on ‘Parkinson’ in 1974.
Parkinson was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1935,per the BBC, and served in the British army before becoming a journalist.
During his time hosting his chat show, Parkinson interviewed hundreds of stars, including actor Wayne in 1974.
In one memorable exchange, the host questioned Wayne about the so-called Hollywood Blacklist — a list of those who allegedly had connections with the Communist Party — prompting the actor to deny that anyone was blacklisted.
Other notable interviewees included boxer Ali, who appeared onParkinsonon multiple occasions,Tom Hanks,David Bowie,VictoriaandDavid Beckham,Will Smith,Gwyneth PaltrowandGeorge Clooney.
Michael Parkinson interview Muhammad Ali on ‘Parkinson’ in 1981.BBC/Youtube
BBC/Youtube
He continued, “Michael was truly one of a kind, an incredible broadcaster and journalist who will be hugely missed.”
“Very sad to hear that Michael Parkinson has left us. He was the king of the intelligent interview,” Izzard, 61, wrote.
Michael Parkinson interviews Gwyneth Paltrow on ‘Parkinson’ in 2003.BBC/Youtube
Parkinson received treatment for prostate cancer in 2013 before doctors gave him the all-clear in 2015, according to the BBC.
source: people.com
