“I don’t let it dictate who I am”: Billy Connolly opens up on living with Parkinson’s
Billy Connolly has opened up about living with Parkinson’s in a rare interview as he prepares to receive one of the highest accolades from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) at the awards next week.
Connolly will be receiving the BAFTA Fellowship - which is awarded to those who have made outstanding contributions in film, games and television - at the May 8 ceremony.
Speaking to Bafta.org, Connolly discussed his neurodegenerative condition and how he doesn’t let it “dictate” his day-to-day life.
“It’s really important to work, to draw, to write, to walk silly for your grandchildren,” he said. “Doing the same thing you’ve always done is good for you.
“I don’t let Parkinson’s dictate who I am - I just get on with it. I’ve had a very successful career and I have no regrets at all.”
Connolly was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013 and retired from live performances in 2018.
He still continues to record projects and make TV appearances.
Although his extensive filmography has earned him a slew of awards, Connolly revealed that he was never in show-business for the accolades.
“I have a collection of shiny things that I’m very proud of. But I never set out to get them or hunt them down,” he said.
He added that he was humbled to be receiving the award, which has previously been awarded to David Attenborough, Dawn French, and Jennifer Saunders.
“I don’t believe in aiming at it because if you don’t get it for whatever reason you’re all disappointed. Just do what you do well and you’ll find yourself a fellow before you know it.”
Image: @bafta (Instagram)