Billy Connolly Undergoes Surgery For Prostate Cancer And Diagnosed With Parkinson's Disease

Much-loved comedian, actor and musician Billy Connolly has undergone surgery for prostate cancer and is also being treated for the ‘initial symptoms’ of Parkinson’s Disease.

The funnyman, who turns 71 in November, recently underwent successful ‘minor’ surgery in the US for the cancer and has since made a full recovery. However, he’s still fighting the disease, and is also showing the early signs of Parkinson’s.

Despite being briefly hospitalised, Billy has taken the time to reassure fans that he’ll still be taking to the stage (and our screens) in the coming future, which includes a lengthy tour of New Zealand next year.

His spokesperson told The Irish Independent:

“Billy Connolly recently underwent minor surgery in America after being diagnosed with the very early stages of prostate cancer. The operation was a total success, and Billy is fully recovered. In addition, Billy has been assessed as having the initial symptoms of Parkinson's disease, for which he is receiving the appropriate treatment.

"Billy has been assured by experts that the findings will in no way inhibit or affect his ability to work, and he will start filming a TV series in the near future, as well as undertaking an extensive theatrical tour of New Zealand in the new year.”

Billy began his career working as a welder in the Glasgow shipyards but turned to folk singing in the late 1960s before turning to stand-up comedy. Since the early days of his career Billy has made a successful transition to acting alongside his stand-up tours and has starred in films such as the Oscar-nominated Mrs Brown.

In December last year, Billy was honoured with the Bafta Scotland award for outstanding contribution.

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