Sir Michael Parkinson – the revered and celebrated broadcaster – has died. He was aged 88.
Sir Michael was the most renowned teevision interviewer during his seven decades in the industry.
His long-running chat show was a masterclass in allowing guests to talk and listening to the answer.
His family said in a statement:
“After a brief illness Sir Michael Parkinson passed away peacefully at home last night in the company of his family.
“The family request that they are given privacy and time to grieve.”
Tim Davie, BBC director-general said:
“Michael was the king of the chat show and he defined the format for all the presenters and shows that followed.
“He interviewed the biggest stars of the 20th century and did so in a way that enthralled the public.
Michael was not only brilliant at asking questions, but he was also a wonderful listener.
“Michael was truly one of a kind, an incredible broadcaster and journalist who will be hugely missed.”
After his last chat show Sir Michael said:
“Over the years it has been a privilege to meet some of the most intelligent and interesting people.
“It has always been a great joy and I shall miss it.”
Sir Michael was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2013 and was given the all-clear after two years of treatment including radiotherapy.
He is survived by his wife Mary, who he married in 1959, and their three sons Michael, Andrew, and Nicholas.
