Billy Connolly: It’s Been A Pleasure had fans in tears on Monday evening, as the legendary comedian gave his ‘final performance’.

The 78-year-old retired from stand up in 2018 following his 2013 Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis, bringing to a close a career that spanned six decades. Sir Billy spoke about his experience with the disease and looked back at his incredible career on the ITV show, joined by a host of celebrity fans. Sir Paul McCartney, Dustin Hoffman, Whoopi Goldberg, Sheridan Smith, Sir Elton John and Sir Lenny Henry were among the stars to pay tributes to the stand-up. The most emotional moment on the show came when Sir Billy opened up about his Parkinson’s diagnosis. Sir Billy said: ‘It was obvious from my movement, that I wasn’t who I used to be.

And so I had to explain it… just to say that I am not defined by it.’ He added: ‘It’s got me and it will get me and it will end me but that’s OK with me.’ Sir Elton and Sheridan sobbed as they opened up about their love for the national treasure. Welling up, Sheridan – who welcomed her son Billy in May this year – cried: ‘I named my son after Billy, did you know that? I’m going to cry.’ And watching Sheridan’s tribute, a clearly moved Sir Billy beamed and muttered: ‘Oh, that’s great.’ Viewers on Twitter were also in tears as they shared their thoughts on social media. Watching Billy Connolly with tears of laughter and sadness. My absolute hero, such an amazing man,’ one fan wrote.Another said: ‘I know it’s bitter sweet, but there’s no comedian who can reduce me to tears quite like Billy Connolly.’