Sir Michael Parkinson CBE is probably the most famous and beloved of British chat show hosts. This tour is dedicated to promote a book, 'George Best, A Memoir'. It’s a fantastic opportunity to not only spend some time with a legend but to hear his perspective on probably one of the most talented yet troubled footballers of our time.
Now at 83 years old it is still a pleasure to hear the voice and enjoy the keenness of the mind shown by the ex -chat show host. The format is Parkinson being interviewed by his own son Michael jnr. and this works well, there is clearly a warmth between them and a joint love of the subject matter, George Best.
A lifelong Manchester United fan, Parkinson talks with authority of how Sir Matt Busby had always searched for one person to lead his team to success. Having been robbed of Duncan Edwards so tragically because of the Munich air disaster, the arrival of Best allowed Busby to fulfil his dream of wining the European Cup in 1968. Interspersed with conversation and family anecdotes, there is footage of not only George Best, but other famous Manchester United Legends, Sir Matt Busby, Bobby Charlton and most poignantly footage of Best alongside David Beckham on the Parkinson Show. The interview with Beckham is particularly significant. These days’ footballing superstars are shielded by an array of agents and security guards, however this was not the case for Best. In 1963 this shy lad left home in Belfast and arrived in Manchester right into the maelstrom of the swinging 60’s. Receiving five thousand fan mail letters a week, Bests only shield was the landlady of the digs he lived in in Manchester and an agent based in Huddersfield. Clearly there is a deep respect, love and sense of loss between Parkinson and Best. From his arrival at Manchester United as a 17 year old boy, there was a bond between Best and Parkinson, who was working at Granada Television at the time, that continued for all the years of Best’s life.
Speaking honestly Parkinson reveals how he has written this memoir as a way of saying goodbye to his lifelong friend. At the time of Best’s death, Parkinson was living in Australia, so didn’t get to formally say goodbye. The honesty continues when Parkinson reveals that he too suffered a drinking problem, and so ultimately felt unable to help his friend as he was suffering from dependency on alcohol. There is something here for everyone, love Parkinson, love football, love Manchester United and the realisation that even with the greatest footballing talent, in life we are all just human, and sometimes our weaknesses prevent the full realisation of our potential.
Reportage - Jen O'Bierne
on - 15/11/18
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