'Daft' Michael Parkinson is wrong - Billy Connolly's brain has not been 'dulled', says wife

The 75-year-old comedian had himself dismissed Sir Michael's comments, saying: "I would recognise Parky if he was standing behind me - in a diving suit."

Friends and colleagues of Sir Billy also said they were surprised by the remarks, insisting that he was "fine and well".

Their defence of the comic and actor was backed up by a statement from the production company Indigo Television, which has made documentaries with Sir Billy and is working with him on a series in which he tours Scotland.

It said: "We have been busy filming with Billy over the summer and can report happily that he's on top form, as sharp and hilarious as ever.

"We were speaking with his wife only today and she is pretty sure that Billy has no more problem recognising old friends than anyone else of his age who has lived abroad for years."

Referring to the "awkward dinner", Indigo Television said Sir Billy's family disagreed with Parkinson's version.

A spokesman added: "The GQ Awards must be the event Sir Michael is talking about - it was in 2016 and Sir Michael presented Billy with an Inspiration Award."

Sir Billy became a star beyond Scotland and across the UK after appearing on the BBC's Parkinson show for the first time in 1975.

He said the appearance changed his "entire life" and the two became good friends. In recent years, Sir Billy has spoken frankly about his ongoing battle with Parkinson's.