Sir Billy Connolly has opened up about his struggle with alcoholism as documentary airs tonight

Sir Billy Connolly has opened up about how his struggle with alcoholism led to one of the most difficult times in his career. In a new BBC show that looks back on his nearly sixty years in comedy, the 81-year-old, who is living with Parkinson's disease, talks about how heavy drinking contributed to the breakdown of his first marriage.

Connolly, who became famous in the 1970s, says that alcohol destroyed his relationship with his first wife, Iris Pressagh, whom he married in 1969. He discusses this painful period in the documentary "Billy Connolly: In My Own Words," which airs tonight.

In an interview with the Mirror, Connolly recalls that one of the saddest moments in his life happened in 1980, during the height of his career. He appeared on the popular TV show "This Is Your Life," where host Eamonn Andrews honored his career. However, it was difficult for Connolly to be on the same show with his first wife, Iris, while also being there with his current wife, Pamela, who was a surprise guest.

He described how his life was in turmoil at the time, with his marriage falling apart, and he wasn't sure how to handle it. "Love is easy," he said, "but everything else is hard." He explained that life’s pressures often take over, making things even more challenging. The situation was made worse by Pamela’s presence on the show, which he found "horrible."

Connolly also reflected on Iris, who passed away in 2010 from alcoholism at the age of 67. He remembers their wedding day in Glasgow, where they both drank heavily and later performed at a gig in Kilmarnock.

Connolly credits his second wife, Pamela Stephenson, with helping him overcome his addiction. They met while he appeared briefly on her BBC sketch show "Not The Nine O'Clock News." He recalls how they quickly became close, eventually marrying, starting a family, and building a life together.

Now, the couple lives on a peaceful island in Florida, which they moved to on the advice of doctors to help manage Connolly’s Parkinson's symptoms. He enjoys the relaxed atmosphere and says it has been beneficial for his health. Connolly quit drinking in 1985 after meeting Pamela and has no regrets about his decision. He also shared that he is at peace with his own mortality and doesn’t feel bitter about having Parkinson’s.

Although Connolly retired from stand-up comedy in 2018, he continues to make documentaries. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease 12 years ago, after a doctor noticed him walking strangely in a hotel lobby in Los Angeles.

"Billy Connolly: In My Own Words" will air on BBC One at 10:40 pm tonight, September 2.