Sir Billy Connolly, known for his long-standing career in comedy spanning over 50 years, has been a beacon of joy for many. In his homeland of Scotland, he is often referred to as The Big Yin, translating to The Big One.
Despite being hailed as one of the finest comedians, the beloved star initially stepped into the entertainment industry as a folk singer with the Glaswegian group, The Humblebums.
However, by the mid-70s, he had transitioned from being the band's humorous frontman to a full-time stand-up comedian. His debut solo album, a fusion of music and comedy sketches, featured one of his most famous routines, The Crucifixion, where he likens the Last Supper to a boozy night out in Glasgow.
The success of the album and subsequent live performances propelled him to UK fame, making his first appearance on BBC's flagship chat show, Parkinson, in 1975.
Is Billy Connolly married and does he have children?
In 1968, at the age of 26, Billy tied the knot with his first wife, fellow Scot Iris Pressagh, and together they had two children. They divorced in 1985, and in 1989, Billy went on to marry New Zealand-born writer and psychologist Pamela Stephenson. The couple are still together and also have three children.
Billy Connolly's health battle
Billy has been fighting Parkinson's disease, a degenerative brain condition, since 2013. In 2018, he released a documentary titled Made In Scotland, where he reflected on his life, career, and illness.
Upon his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease, he felt as though his life was "slipping away". The blow was even more devastating when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the same time, although he later received the all-clear.
Last year, he hinted at a possible return to the screen after retiring six years ago due to memory issues affecting his performances.
Mike Reilly, who has worked with Sir Billy for over a decade, revealed that the comedian had approached him about a potential new project.
However, he remained tight-lipped, telling Metro: "I've been asked about doing something else with him, which we're in conversations about that.
"But I'm not allowed to say what it is. But it'll be nice if it happens, it'll be great if it happens.".
Mike emphasised that there was no pressure on the actor and comedy legend, stating they were developing new ideas at a pace that suited him.
What is Billy Connolly's net worth?
Billy has amassed considerable wealth thanks to his lengthy career as an actor and comedian, reportedly boasting a fortune of £16.5M.
This wealth has been accrued through Billy's work in film and stand-up comedy.
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