CHAT show legend Sir Michael Parkinson told a Marlow audience that he is only remembered for being attacked by a puppet Emu and a disastrous interview with Hollywood star Meg Ryan.

The journalist and former BBC One prime time talk host was the special guest at The Compleat Angler Hotel.

He spoke about interviewing some of the world's most famous people such as Henry Kissinger, John Betjeman, Elton John and Fred Astaire.

And he talked about the fickle nature of fame and the advice he has for any youngsters who ask him about following in his career.

"I say to them can I just tell you one thing that may change your mind.

"In all my life writing for newspapers, magazines, etc the only two things I am remembered for is Meg Ryan and being attacked by an Emu.

"If you want the same thing, I said that's fine go ahead but that's what fame's about. It's about that, the daft side of things."

Speaking on October 26, he recalled how an interview with John Wayne proved hard after he had a complete brain blank and forgot his name, but said he had been "a strange man".

See video below.

Fellow acting superstar Charlton Heston was 'dour', the interviewer also told guests.

He revealed only two scripted interviews had ever been allowed on his show.

These were with Frankie Howerd and Sacha Baron Cohen - creator of Ali G.

He said: "Both were total and utter disasters."

Sir Michael's talk helped raised over £1,000 for charity Swan Lifeline, who put on the event and he said he had been delighted to aid the gracious birds.

Kay Webb Chairman of Swan Lifeline thanked Sir Michael and the Compleat Angler for raising the money in such an enjoyable way and said: "With the onset of winter rescue callouts and admissions to the centre increase, the money raised will be a great help."

Gaius Wyncoll, General Manager at the Compleat Angler, said: "The lunch was a great success with around 70 guests attending."

 

- MEANWHILE Sir Michael's former musical director Laurie Holloway will be the next big name at the hotel later this month.

The well known and respected jazz musician, composer will be the guest speaker at a Macmillan Cancer Support lunch on November 30.

To book tickets, which are priced at £30 per person, call Bowaters at the Macdonald Compleat Angler on 01628 405 406, www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/CompleatAngler.