Billy Connolly’s Sobering Thoughts on Death Amid Health Struggles

Billy Connolly has opened up about his views on death amidst his ongoing health issues.

The Scottish comedian, affectionately known as “The Big Yin,” was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2013. Parkinson’s is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements, stiffness, and compromised balance and coordination. Over time, the condition often worsens.

Despite facing increasing physical challenges, the 81-year-old continues to maintain a positive outlook on life, stating last year that he doesn’t feel “close to death.”

Reflecting on his diagnosis, Connolly shared that he realized death is “not the big thing everyone has made it out to be.” Speaking in a recent interview, the retired stand-up comic said, “It is nothing – it is just a sudden nothing.”

Connolly recounted the day he received his diagnosis for both Parkinson’s and prostate cancer, telling The Mirror: “Yes, it was a funny week I had. On the Monday, I had hearing aids. On the Tuesday I got pills for heartburn, which I have to take all the time, and on the Wednesday, I got news that I had prostate cancer and Parkinson’s.”

The comedian recalled how the doctors informed him over the phone, “Look, we have had the results and it is cancer.” To which he responded, “Oh, nobody has ever said that to me before.”

Connolly received treatment for prostate cancer and subsequently got the all-clear.

Speaking about how he managed the news, he said, “You just confront it and make decisions based on it. You just have to think, ‘Don’t think you are being badly treated or you have the bad pick of the straws. You are one of millions. Just behave yourself and relax.’”

Five years after his diagnosis, Connolly retired from his stand-up career due to the increasing difficulties posed by the illness. He has often shared insights into the realities of living with Parkinson’s.

Though he doesn’t feel close to death yet, he has discussed with his wife, psychologist Pamela Stephenson Connolly, what he would like written on his gravestone. He humorously wrote, “I was thinking I’d like: ‘Jesus Christ, is that the time already?’ on mine, but my wife Pamela was shaky about it, so we settled on ‘You’re standing on my balls!’ in tiny wee writing.”

Connolly will be reflecting on his life and career in an upcoming series titled In My Own Words, set to air on BBC One on Monday (2 September). The special promises, “With unflinching honesty and brilliant humour, Sir Billy looks back on his triumphs and failings as an entertainer, husband and father.”

Source: The Mirror