Viewers voiced concerns for the welfare of Michael Parkinson after the legendary chat show host made a rare TV appearance on BBC Breakfast on Thursday.
The veteran broadcaster, 87, who is affectionately known as “Parky”, stopped by the BBC studios to discuss new book My Sporting Life: Memories, Moments, and Declarations, which he has co-written with his son, Mike.
During his stellar career, Parkinson interviewed more than 2,000 celebrities, from Tina Turner to Sir Elton John, Tom Cruise and even The Muppets, and seemed to know how to get the best out of his interviewees.
He has kept a low profile in recent years, after stepping down from his hugely successful chat show back in 2004.
In his latest sit-down chat, presenter Naga Munchetty asked him if he ever gets “sick of seeing the TV clips?”
To which Parkinson replied: “Do I get sick of it? Absolutely. I don’t recognise the person.”
While fans were delighted to see him back on screen, many were shocked by his appearance, remarking that he looked “frail”.
“Wow. When you haven’t seen someone on screen for a long time, you expect them to stay looking like that forever. Didn’t recognise Michael Parkinson until he spoke,” remarked one user on Twitter.
“Just switched #BBCBreakfast didn’t even realise that was #parky aww bless him he looks so frail now,” agreed another.
With a third remarking: “@BBCBreakfast look after Parky a true TV legend - he looks frail.”
Some felt the comments were a bit harsh, however.
“People commenting that #MichaelParkinson looks frail. What do they expect of an 87 year old man? He is in better health than many of the people he interviewed! #Parky,” hit back one.
