Billy Connolly

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Billy Connolly

Sir William "Billy" Connolly, CBE (born 24 November 1942) is a Scottish comedian, musician, presenter, and actor. He is sometimes known, especially in his native Scotland, by the nickname "The Big Yin" ("The Big One"). Connolly's observational comedy is known for its idiosyncratic and often off-the-cuff style.

Early Life

Billy Connolly was born in Anderston, Glasgow, to William Connolly and Mary McLean. He was brought up in a tenement in the city and later moved to a council house in Drumchapel. Connolly left school at the age of 15 and became a welder in the Glasgow shipyards. During this time, he developed an interest in folk music and began playing the banjo.

Career

Music

Connolly's first steps into the entertainment industry were as a folk musician. He formed a folk duo called The Humblebums with Tam Harvey and later with Gerry Rafferty. The group released several albums before disbanding in 1971. Connolly then pursued a solo career, releasing several comedy albums that showcased his talent for storytelling and humor.

Comedy

Connolly's breakthrough in comedy came in the early 1970s when he began performing stand-up routines. His unique style, which often included humorous anecdotes from his own life, quickly gained him a following. He became a regular on British television, appearing on shows such as Parkinson and The Late Late Show. Connolly's comedy tours have taken him around the world, and he has released numerous successful stand-up specials.

Acting

In addition to his comedy career, Connolly has also enjoyed success as an actor. He has appeared in a variety of films and television series, including Mrs. Brown, The Boondock Saints, The Man Who Sued God, and The Hobbit trilogy. His performances have been praised for their depth and versatility.

Television and Documentaries

Connolly has also worked as a television presenter, hosting several travel documentaries. These include Billy Connolly's World Tour of Scotland, Billy Connolly's World Tour of Australia, and Billy Connolly's Route 66. These programs have been well-received and showcase Connolly's love of travel and adventure.

Personal Life

Connolly has been married twice. His first marriage was to Iris Pressagh, with whom he had two children. The couple divorced in 1985. He married his second wife, Pamela Stephenson, in 1989. They have three children together. Connolly was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2013, which has affected his ability to perform live comedy.

Honors and Awards

Connolly has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2003 and was knighted in 2017 for his services to entertainment and charity.

Legacy

Billy Connolly is widely regarded as one of the greatest comedians of all time. His influence on the world of comedy is immense, and his work continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the globe.

See Also

• List of Scottish comedians
• List of British comedians
• Parkinson's disease