Veteran TV talk-show presenter Michael Parkinson will be knighted in the New Year Honours list, according to reports.
The Queen hands out the accolades to individuals each year to reward excellence across the various sectors of British culture.
Parkinson is recognized in the United Kingdom and beyond for hosting high-profile television shows for more than 30 years.
The 72-year-old broadcaster was the recipient of the 2005 Music Industry Trusts’ Award in London, a title given annually to an individual who has made a distinctive and lasting contribution to the British music industry.
He was also recognized with the prestigious MITS honor for his more recent influence in breaking new artists. With his predilection for adult-leaning, often jazz-oriented performers, he has championed a number of acts on his shows including Jamie Cullum, Katie Melua and Michael Bublé.
Parkinson’s TV career came to a close this month when his final chat show was broadcast Dec. 15, featuring such guests David Beckham, Michael Caine, David Attenborough, Judi Dench, Billy Connolly and Cullum.
He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2000 for services to broadcasting.
