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Billy Connolly Makes Rare Public Appearance to Receive Key West Film Festival Honor

A tribute led by Steve Buscemi with Aidan Quinn highlighted the 82-year-old's influence during a period of few public outings.

Overview

  • Connolly accepted the festival’s Golden Key Award for Artistic Excellence as guest of honour at the Key West Film Festival in Florida.
  • Presented by longtime friends Steve Buscemi and Aidan Quinn, the award followed remarks celebrating friendships formed during The Impostors.
  • The comedian rose from his seat with a walking stick rather than taking the stage, telling the crowd he uses it because he has a “horrible illness.”
  • Coverage noted a career retrospective at the festival, including a 20th‑anniversary screening of The Aristocrats featuring Connolly.
  • Now based in Key West after moving on medical advice following his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Connolly has kept public appearances limited in recent years.