TV legend Sir Michael Parkinson broke down in tears after looking back at his favourite interview he said was ‘unforgettable’.
The showbiz icon celebrated 50 years on television on Saturday night by taking a trip down memory lane.
He spoke of some of his most memorable interviews and even recalled his first-ever celebrity chat with Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger.
Over the years, Sir Michael has met with some of the biggest names of Hollywood, from Muhammad Ali to John Lennon – and even suffered awkward moments with stars like Helen Mirren and Meg Ryan.
The 86-year-old relived his fondest memories as he rewatched a number of his old interviews, however, when asked which was his favourite, he became emotional, writes the Express.
(Image: BBC)
Sir Michael fought back tears and said he’s always asked that question.
He opened up: “Well, it’s an impossible question, and the answer I give always surprises.
“It was with a man called Dr Jacob Bronowski, a renowned scientist, who created that towering achievement of television documentary making, The Ascent of Man.”
The Ascent of Main aired in 1973 and followed Dr Bronowski who travelled the world to trace human development through science.
(Image: BBC)
In one part of the series, Dr Bronowski visited a concentration camp and crematorium based in Auschwitz.
In the interview clip, he explained visiting the camp was tough as many of his relatives had tragically died there.
As Sir Michael watched it back, he struggled to hold in the tears, saying: “I almost dare not say what I have to say that this is my favourite interview.
(Image: BBC)
“Of course, I can only watch it now and feel the tears.
“It was one man’s account of the horror of what Nazi Germany did to the Jews.
“And it is profoundly moving because he is such an extraordinary man.”
He said the thought was “simple and profound” and he finds it difficult to remember the interview without “tearing up”.
Despite the emotional connection with the clip, the TV star says it’s important to be “aware of moments” like that, which “change your life”.
He added: “It was a moment in my life I will never forget”.
Michael Parkison at 50 aired on BBC and is available on BBC iPlayer.
Stay up to date with the latest news in Showbiz and follow your favourite celebrities by signing up for our newsletter by clicking here.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
