Miriam Margolyes chokes back tears as she shares rare health update after operation

Miriam Margolyes choked back tears as she shared a rare health update on Saturday (September 27).

The legendary actress appeared in a pre-recorded clip on today's edition of BBC Breakfast, where she spoke to host Charlie Stayt about her long-spanning career.

She also took a moment to reflect on her health after recent speculation. Miriam recently revealed that she and her partner are planning to move to Tuscany, with fans worrying that she was unwell.

"There has been quite a lot of press speculation because you've said you're leaving the UK to go and spend more time elsewhere, Tuscany I think it is. And I think people read into that that maybe you're not well," Charlie began.

"Two years ago, I had a TAVI [Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation] operation or a procedure. I had a cow's aortic valve. I was offered a pig's, and I said, 'No, I'm Jewish. I better have a cow just to keep it level,''" Miriam explained.

"They used that as if I was dying now. I'm no more dying than you're dying. Because we're all dying eventually, but I don't know when and I hope it's a long time away."

Charlie then said: "Well, there will be many people who are reassured to hear that from you."

Miriam added: "I'm perfectly fine. I'm 84, I've got various ailments, a weak bladder which is because I didn't do pelvic floor exercises. But I am fine. I am not mental. I am a working actress and an extremely successful writer."

The star later became emotional as she shared memories of her late mother, including the pair singing musical songs together.

Miriam is currently starring in her one-woman show, titled Miriam Margolyes: From A to Z, which is touring across the UK and Ireland. The production features heartwarming stories from her childhood, as well as career anecdotes.

"I do not [sing]. I look as if I can sing. I do sing in my show, only one song which is Daisy, Daisy. My mother, whom I adored, used to sing musical songs with me. She played the piano and she wanted to be an actress," Miriam revealed.

She tearfully added: "When she had a stroke, which was after I told her I was gay, and I think it really crushed her, the only words that she could speak were, 'I can't afford a carriage,' and that makes me think of her when I sing it."

Charlie then said: "And for those that don't know, that's a line from the song [Daisy, Daisy]. I can see that gets you, even just recounting the story."

Miriam concluded: "I'm aware of being old, although still spirited. And it makes me remember when I was little and I was with her. I loved her so much. Life's a rollercoaster, thank God we're still rolling."

BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am