Billy Connolly’s famous fans – including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Elton John and Sir Andy Murray – have lined up to take part in a new TV special celebrating his career.

The 74-year-old Scottish comedian has entertained audiences for five decades and he will have his long career honoured in a new ITV special entitled Billy Connolly And Me: A Celebration.

Billy, fondly known as The Big Yin, won his way into the hearts of comedy-lovers around the world with his unashamedly expletive-laden style and anarchic sense of humour.

Dame Judi is one of Billy's biggest fans.
Dame Judi is one of Billy’s biggest fans (Ian West/PA)

Among Billy’s celebrity fans appearing in the show are Dame Judi, Sir Elton and Sir Andy, as well as David Tennant, Eric Idle and Armando Iannucci, who will open up to share their personal stories and memories of the comic.

His wife Pamela Stephenson will shed light on their life together, and stand-up comedians Peter Kay and Adam Hills will reveal how Connolly impacted their careers.

There will be contributions from fans around the world too, as devotees from Scotland to Qatar share their stories on how Billy has affected their lives, whether that was his helping them to tackle personal obstacles, find love or come to terms with their disabilities.

Billy has affected lives in all sorts of ways.
Billy has affected lives in all sorts of ways (Matt Crossick/PA)

The film will also include a new interview with Billy and will show his reaction to the fans’ videos.

The one-hour special will be narrated by Doctor Foster star Suranne Jones, a huge admirer of Billy.

She said: “My dad was a huge Billy fan and I grew up loving Billy. So, it’s an honour to be involved in Billy And Me.”

Billy Connolly And Me: A Celebration, airs on Tuesday April 18 at 9pm on ITV.