British talk show host legend Michael Parkinson has died at the age of 88. On his long-running chat show, he has interviewed famous personalities such as Muhammad Ali, Elton John, Madonna and Helen Mirren.

The news of his death was confirmed by the BBC. “After a brief illness Sir Michael Parkinson passed away peacefully at home last night in the company of his family,” the broadcasting company released the family’s statement. “The family request that they are given privacy and time to grieve.”

Parkinson was once called “the great British talk show host” by The Guardian.

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His show launched on BBC television in 1971. Jazz musician Marion Montgomery was his first guest on the show. Parkinson’s show completed 11 years on BBC after which the show aired on the British public broadcaster from 1998 until 2007. The host reportedly once estimated that he had interviewed more than 2,000 guests.

“Michael was the king of the chat show and he defined the format for all the presenters and shows that followed,” BBC director general Tim Davie said about Parkinson. “He interviewed the biggest stars of the 20th century and did so in a way that enthralled the public. Michael was not only brilliant at asking questions, he was also a wonderful listener. Michael was truly one of a kind, an incredible broadcaster and journalist who will be hugely missed.”

Michael Parkinson is survived by his wife, Mary and his three children.

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Who is Mary Parkinson, Michael Parkinson’s wife?

Mary Parkinson was born on July 16, 1936, in Doncaster. She was also known for being a journalist and television presenter, much like her husband.

Mary was the host of the 1970s magazine program Good Afternoon, produced by Thames Television. She also appeared as a panelist on Through the Keyhole.

She married Michael in 1959, after meeting on an open topped bus. The couple was married for over 60 years. They shared three sons, Michael Parkinson Jr, Nicholas Parkinson, Andrew Parkinson. heir eldest son, Michael Jr, is married to comic and actress Fiona Allen.