16/09/2013

Billy Connolly Has Cancer Surgery

A spokeswoman for Billy Connolly has confirmed the comedian has undergone surgery for prostate cancer.

He has also been diagnosed with Parkinson's and is receiving treatment for the initial stages of the disease.

In a statement, his spokeswoman said: "Billy Connolly recently underwent minor surgery in America after being diagnosed with the very early stages of prostate cancer. The operation was a total success, and Billy is fully recovered.

"In addition, Billy has been assessed as having the initial symptoms of Parkinson's disease, for which he is receiving the appropriate treatment.

"Billy has been assured by experts that the findings will in no way inhibit or affect his ability to work, and he will start filming a TV series in the near future, as well as undertaking an extensive theatrical tour of New Zealand in the new year."

The 70-year-old began working as a welder in the Glasgow shipyards but quit in the late 1960s to become a folk singer before he turned his attention to stand-up comedy.

In December 2012, Connolly was given the Bafta Scotland award for outstanding contribution.

He is married to New Zealand-born actress and psychologist Pamela Stephenson.

(JP/CD)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

05 January 2011
Gerry Rafferty Dies At 63
'Baker Street' singer-songwriter Gerry Rafferty has died at the age of 63. The Scottish singer-song passed away after suffering a long illness. He is best known for his 1970s hits 'Baker Street' and 'Stuck in the Middle with You'.
23 November 2007
Emotional Parkie Records His Final Show
It was an emotional finale for one of the most iconic of all TV interviewers. The much-respected Michael Parkinson had to fight back tears as he interviewed the final guests on his long-running TV chat show.
22 July 2011
Belfast Mortar Bomb Find Condemned
The Northern Ireland police have said they found a significant and viable mortar bomb following a security alert in north Belfast last night. The device was found during a search with a man being arrested as a result. Dozens of people were moved from their homes overnight when the security operation was ongoing on Thursday.
23 January 2015
Call For More Protection For Cosmetic Surgery Patients
Patients should be able to check if the cosmetic surgeon they are using is listed on an approved register, according to new plans made by the Royal College of Surgeons.