Billy Connolly

Billy Connolly: I'm writing my first film

Billy Connolly has revealed he is writing his first film.

A welcome new addition to the Friday night schedules - some real comedy in among the chat shows masquerading as such. Pitched at the post-pub crowd it's an archive show in which some of today's comics celebrate the great TV moments that inspired them to pursue a career in stand-up, or simply left them doubled over helpless with laughter and admiration.

Jack Dee is up first, recalling the impact that Billy Connolly's debut appearance on Parkinson - when the Big Yin told the infamous bum joke that turned him into a comedy superstar overnight - had on his teenage self back in 1975. Among those piling in to concur, and recall what an enormous influence Connolly was, are Jon Culshaw, Dara O'Briain, Alan Carr and Jo Brand. Then, before it all gets too indulgent, Brand recalls her own favourite - a groundbreaking 1988 sketch from French and Saunders in which the duo play dirty old men watching a beauty pageant. Again, there's praise from the likes of Alan Carr, Joan Rivers, Andi Osho and - a touch bizarrely - Paddy McGuinness, before moving on to the next (Rhod Gilbert on Eddie Izzard's surreal "learning French" routine), and finishing with hymns to Max Miller and Les Dawson. In truth, the old doesn't always mix with the new, and the insights aren't always scintillating, but it's a chance to enjoy again some hilarious moments, and to discover some past flights of genius that may have passed you by.

An interview with Craig Campbell

Craig Campbell is a comedian whose gift for storytelling has drawn (lazy) comparisons with the messiah of comedy, Billy Connolly.

Billy Connolly plans road trip for new show

Billy Connolly is getting on his bike to fulfil a lifelong ambition - travelling America's famous Route 66.

Chris Addison Interview: One Night Stand

Chris Addison is the first headline act to take to Dave's stage for the second series of its stand-up show. We spoke to the comedian to find out which part of the show we should look out for, and how Billy Connolly's aunties are involved.

Big Yin Billy Connolly in stage virus scare

Billy Connolly was forced off stage during a show in Australia after being struck down with a virus.

Connolly the court jester backs fellow Scot for glory

One of the spectators in Andy Murray's courtside box during his win over Jürgen Melzer had a funny turn here last night. Billy Connolly, who is on a tour of Australia, performed at Melbourne's State Theatre after spending the afternoon watching Murray, having accepted his fellow Scot's invitation to join his entourage in Rod Laver Arena.

Billy Connolly interview

You get to wear some lovely sparkly costumes, says Billy Connolly, and then all you have to do is swan around while ­everyone looks at you. He might have been describing his wife Pamela Stephenson's ten-week stint on Strictly Come ­Dancing, but he was talking about himself. The Big Yin is starring as King ­Theodore of Lilliput in the blockbusting 3D movie Gulliver's Travels.

Billy Connolly to do Strictly Come Dancing if wife wins

Billy Connolly has vowed to be on next year's Strictly Come Dancing if wife Pamela Stephenson wins the final.

How Billy Connolly's beard almost ruined his big break

Billy Connolly almost missed out on his first film break - because of his trademark beard and long hair.