Parkinson reveals final show lineup

Michael Parkinson has revealed the lineup of star guests that will be appearing on his final show next month.

The TV veteran will be interviewing David Beckham, Dame Judi Dench, Sir David Attenborough, Sir Michael Caine, Peter Kay and Dame Edna Everage for the show to end his 36 years as a chatshow host.

Comedian Billy Connolly will become the show's most interviewed celebrity when he also appears as a guest for the eighth time. Meanwhile jazz singer Jamie Cullum, who was made a star after being interviewed by Parky, will provide the music.

The 72-year-old claimed that he had chosen the guests himself, saying: "They are friends who all made a particular contribution. It will be a wonderful way to finish."

The special on December 15 will also look back at his career. Parkinson said: "It is a reminder of how lucky and privileged I have been to have met so many talented people.

"Astaire to Nureyev, Ali to Ricky Hatton, Best to Beckham, Bergman to Blanchett, Jack Benny to Billy Connolly. I'll miss it."

Executive producer of Parkinson, Mark Wells, said: "This is the end of an era."

Parkinson started his broadcasting career with the BBC in 1971 and switched to ITV in 2004.