TV
Michael Parkinson to make talkshow comeback on Sky Arts
Published Thursday, Feb 23 2012, 20:52 GMT | By Tom Eames | 24 comments
Sir Michael Parkinson is to make his television comeback on Sky Arts later this year.
The veteran presenter retired from his long-running talkshow on ITV in 2007, but will return for six episodes of a brand new Masterclass series.
The new interview-based programmes will be hour-long 'masterclasses' in front of a live audience with guests that have yet to be confirmed.
The 76-year-old will take a look back at the life and career of a different celebrity each week, while the programme will also include musical and drama performances.
Parkinson said: "I'm delighted to be working with Sky Arts on the Masterclass series and look forward to being part of the exciting times ahead for this innovative and important channel."
Sky Arts director James Hunt said of the new show: "He is one of our country's finest broadcasters, having interviewed everyone in the entertainment industry worth knowing, from Bing Crosby to Bette Davis, Rod Hull to Madonna."
During his long-running Parkinson series, the host interviewed over 2,000 guests, with his personal favourites including Muhammad Ali and Billy Connolly.
Parkinson - who was knighted by The Queen in 2008 - has been critical of UK television in recent years, including celebrity talkshows and talent shows such as The X Factor.
The veteran presenter retired from his long-running talkshow on ITV in 2007, but will return for six episodes of a brand new Masterclass series.
© PA Images / Matt Crossick/EMPICS Entertainment
The new interview-based programmes will be hour-long 'masterclasses' in front of a live audience with guests that have yet to be confirmed.
The 76-year-old will take a look back at the life and career of a different celebrity each week, while the programme will also include musical and drama performances.
Parkinson said: "I'm delighted to be working with Sky Arts on the Masterclass series and look forward to being part of the exciting times ahead for this innovative and important channel."
Sky Arts director James Hunt said of the new show: "He is one of our country's finest broadcasters, having interviewed everyone in the entertainment industry worth knowing, from Bing Crosby to Bette Davis, Rod Hull to Madonna."
During his long-running Parkinson series, the host interviewed over 2,000 guests, with his personal favourites including Muhammad Ali and Billy Connolly.
Parkinson - who was knighted by The Queen in 2008 - has been critical of UK television in recent years, including celebrity talkshows and talent shows such as The X Factor.
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