MICHAEL PARKINSON - 'KNIGHTHOOD FOR PARKINSON'

Legendary television chat show host Michael Parkinson is likely to be knighted for his services to broadcasting, according to reports.

The Sun reports that the much-loved interviewer's name is on the Queen's New Years honours list and has been approved by the prime minister and the Queen.

The paper quotes a Whitehall source as saying that the knighthood is "hugely deserved", adding that the television star was an "institution" who deserved to be honoured.

Parkinson received a CBE from Prince Charles in June 2000 for his services to broadcasting which include presenting radio shows and sports programmes in addition to his regular interview show.

Over eight million people tuned in to see the 72-year-old star interview Dame Judi Dench, David Beckham, Peter Kay and Billy Connolly who would be his final guests on the ITV show.

The star has had many famous moments on the show including an interview with boxing legend Muhammad Ali as well as a revealing chat with Victoria Beckham where she revealed that Goldenballs was her nickname for her footballer husband.

Another television star, Strictly Come Dancing host Bruce Forsyth is also set to become a Sir in the forthcoming list, according to reports.