Sir Billy Connolly and his wife Pamela have criticised Sir Michael Parkinson after he claimed the comedian's 'wonderful brain has dulled' due to Parkinson's disease. Pamela, 68, branded the broadcaster a 'daft old fart' for his remarks, which were made during an appearance on Saturday Morning With James Martin.
Sir Michael, 83, recalled an 'awkward dinner' where he was unsure if Sir Billy recognised him. However, Pamela insisted her husband was 'doing great' and that Sir Michael knew nothing of his current condition. She said: 'Mike Parkinson is a daft old fart - doesn't know what he's talking about. Billy's doing great and still funny as hell.'
Sir Billy, 75, also dismissed the claims, stating: 'I would recognise Parky if he was standing behind me - in a diving suit.' Indigo Television, which is filming a documentary with the comedian, backed him up, saying he only has as much trouble recognising people as anyone else his age. They noted that at the dinner in question, Sir Billy immediately recognised Sir Michael upon seeing him.
Sir Michael had described the encounter as 'sad and awkward', saying he wasn't sure if Sir Billy knew who he was. He added: 'The sadness of Billy now is that wonderful brain is dulled.' Sir Billy was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2013.
