Sir Billy Connolly Opens Up About Worsening Parkinson’s Symptoms

Sir Billy Connolly has spoken candidly about how living with Parkinson’s disease has become increasingly challenging in recent years. The legendary Scottish comedian, diagnosed in 2013, retired from live stand-up in 2018 as the condition gradually progressed.

In a recent interview, Connolly revealed that his balance has deteriorated significantly. “Recently I’ve noticed a deterioration in my balance. That was never such a problem before, but in the last year that has come and it has stayed,” he said. “For some reason, I thought it would go away, because a lot of symptoms have come and gone away… just to defy the symptom spotters.”

The 81-year-old added that the shaking — one of the hallmark symptoms of the disease — has returned. He now faces difficulties with simple daily tasks, including “the inability to get out of certain types of chairs.”

His wife, psychologist Pamela Stephenson, also shared that balance problems have led to “a couple of serious falls,” underscoring the increasing impact of the illness on his physical mobility.

Reflecting on one particularly painful incident, Connolly showed the same wit that made him famous. “That fall I had when I landed on my jaw reminded me of a thing I used to do on stage,” he recalled. “I used to say: ‘I fell out of bed, but luckily my face broke my fall…’”

Despite the worsening symptoms, Connolly continues to face his illness with humor and honesty, inspiring fans around the world. Known as “The Big Yin,” he has remained a beloved cultural figure for decades, celebrated for his sharp storytelling, warmth, and irreverent humor.

Connolly has spoken openly about Parkinson’s since his diagnosis, encouraging others to approach the condition with resilience and optimism. His story continues to highlight both the realities of living with a degenerative disease and the strength of the human spirit.