In a rare and deeply moving public appearance, Scottish comedy icon Sir Billy Connolly brought both laughter and tears to an audience in Florida. The 82-year-old, who lives with Parkinson's disease, was guest of honour at the Key West Film Festival, where he was presented with an award for artistic excellence.
A Joyful Yet Emotional Tribute
Supported by a walking stick and wearing distinctive blue trousers, Sir Billy stood to accept the blue, water-droplet shaped award from long-time friends and Hollywood stars Steve Buscemi and Aidan Quinn. The moment proved profoundly emotional for the comedian and attendees alike.
Sir Billy addressed the crowd, stating, 'I walk with a stick because I suffer from a horrible illness.' He continued with characteristic warmth, adding, 'It's a joy to live among you and it's a joy to be among you tonight. I don't often do this kind of thing but it's smashing.'
With his wife Pamela Stephenson holding the microphone for him, the legendary comedian expressed gratitude for the honour, albeit with his trademark humour. 'I have to thank you for this award. I don't know what it is, it's a blue thing. It's a joy and it will go beside my other prizes.'
Hollywood Friends Share Heartfelt Memories
The event served as a powerful reunion for Sir Billy and his famous friends. Steve Buscemi, 67, first became friends with Connolly when they co-starred in the 1998 film 'The Impostors'. Buscemi fondly recalled frequent visits to the comedian's former Scottish home, Candacraig House in Aberdeenshire.
'One day on set Billy offhandedly mentioned, "You know if you're ever in Scotland, Pamela and I have a castle, you should drop by,"' Buscemi told the audience. 'We always had the best time. It's wonderful to be here to honour our friend Billy Connolly.'
Aidan Quinn, 66, delivered an especially poignant tribute, revealing how Sir Billy's comedy provided crucial solace during his brother Paul's cancer battle. 'The only thing that gave my late brother Paul joy during his battle with cancer was watching videos of Sir Billy's stand-up on YouTube,' Quinn emotionally shared. 'I will be forever grateful to you for that. We love you Billy and we thank you for everything.'
A Celebration of a Storied Career
The award presentation preceded a special screening celebrating the 20th anniversary of 'The Aristocrats', the controversial film about the world's dirtiest joke, which featured Sir Billy. Festival organisers played a career retrospective video as the comedy legend watched from the audience.
Beyond his groundbreaking comedy career, Sir Billy has appeared in more than 50 films, with notable performances in 'Mrs Brown' and 'The Last Samurai'. The Glasgow-born star relocated to Florida after his 2013 Parkinson's diagnosis, following medical advice to live in a warmer climate.
The evening stood as a powerful testament to Sir Billy Connolly's enduring legacy, celebrating both his immense artistic contributions and his profound personal impact on those around him, even as he faces significant health challenges.
