Good on narky Parky for apology to Meg

As chat show hosts go, there are few more experienced than Sir Michael Parkinson.

The 86-year-old has interviewed everyone from Dustin Hoffman and Daniel Craig to Tom Cruise and Tina Turner but it seems even the most veteran journalist can have a bad day at the office.

Speaking to the Radio Times last week, he admitted he came across as “kind of pompous” in a memorable 2003 interview with Meg Ryan (inset) and even apologised for losing his temper during their exchange.

I don’t know if you’ve seen the video but it really is quite cringe-worthy. Both Meg and Michael seem very uncomfortable which is surprising for two people so experienced with the media and it just goes to show even Hollywood A-listers can become frustrated by awkward or antagonistic questions. I know how it feels to have a journalist try to trip you up, so I can completely understand why Meg reacted the way she did. I’m willing to bet that moment has bugged Michael for quite some time now, so good on him for speaking up and saying sorry.