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Michael ParkinsonEnglish television presenter, journalist and writer.
Date of Birth: 28.03.1935
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Michael Parkinson: Broadcasting Legend
- Journalism and Military Service
- Broadcasting Career
- Personal Life
- Later Life
Michael Parkinson: Broadcasting Legend
Early LifeMichael Parkinson was born in Cudworth, Yorkshire, on March 28, 1935, to a miner. He attended Barnsley Grammar School, where he excelled in cricket, even competing against Geoffrey Boycott.
Journalism and Military Service
After graduating, Parkinson embarked on a journalism career, working for local newspapers, the Manchester Guardian, and the Daily Express. In 1955, he joined the Royal Army and became one of Britain's youngest captains at the time. He served as a press officer during the Suez Crisis.
Broadcasting Career
Parkinson began his television career in 1971 with the launch of his iconic chat show, "Parkinson." The show aired until 1982 and returned in 1998, continuing until 2007. He also hosted other talk shows and programs both in the UK and abroad, earning him the title of "Britain's Greatest Chat Show Host" from The Guardian.
Personal Life
In 1959, Parkinson married Mary Agnes Heneghan. The couple has three children. Parkinson has been an advocate for birth control and underwent a vasectomy in 1972. He is a passionate cricket fan and has hosted the World XI cricket team.
Later Life
Parkinson retired from television hosting in 2007. He continues to reside in Bray, Berkshire, with his wife. He owns a Michelin-starred restaurant near his home and has expressed his atheism in an interview with Gay Byrne on RTÉ's religious program, "Meaning of Life."
