Rod Stewart’s heartfelt tribute to Michael Parkinson, who dubbed the talk show legend “really the best.”

SIR Rod Stewart paid tribute to Sir Michael ParkinsonHe said the BBC chat king was “really the best”.

Following the tragic news of his death, the rocker shared a heartfelt post about the talk show legend on social media.

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Parkinson’s family announced last night that he had died surrounded by his family at the age of 88 after a short illness.

And Rod, 78, shared a sweet throwback with Parkinson, affectionately known as Parky, and fellow rock star Elton John.

He praised the legendary interviewer, describing him as “authentic” and for always being comfortable with interviews.

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, Rod wrote, “Throughout my career I have dreaded doing television interviews.”

“But with Michael it was the opposite.

“I was really looking forward to our talks.

“He was authentic, really the best and we will miss him.”

Photo shows the three stars playing football together 49 years ago at Harlow Sportcentre in Essex.

Rod, who would have been 29 at the time, played for the Saturn XI team.

And he played against Parkinson, who was just 39 when he played for the Goal-Diggers.

Parkinson left behind a legion of fans after an incredible 50-year career interviewing the biggest stars.

The BBC Chat King sat down with 2,000 prominent guests and interviewed personalities such as Muhammad Ali, David Beckham, David Bowie, Clint Eastwood, Tom Cruise, George Best and David Attenborough.

A statement from Sir Michaels The family said: “After a short illness, Sir Michael Parkinson passed away peacefully last night at home surrounded by his family.

“The family is asking that they be given privacy and time to grieve.”

Actor Michael Caine and presenter Piers Morgan were among a host of famous faces who shared their memories of the popular TV star in a series of touching tributes.

Eddie Izard also said: “It is very sad to hear that Michael Parkinson has left us. He was the king of intelligent interviewing.”

“Parkinson” was first broadcast on the BBC on June 19, 1971 and ran successfully until 1982. In 1998 the talk show was revived on the BBC and proved an instant hit before the show switched to ITV1 in 2004 and ran until 2007.

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