Monty Python Star Eric Idle Continues to Work at Age 80 due to Financial Concerns

Monty Python actor Eric Idle, at the age of 80, continues to work due to financial considerations.

Last year, the comedian, famously known as Sir Robin the-not-quite-so-brave-as-Sir-Lancelot in Monty Python And The Holy Grail, revealed that he had sold his home.

On X, formerly Twitter, Idle remarked: “I find it amusing how people often assume we have a lot of money. Python is a complete mess.

“I never imagined that at this stage in life, the financial situation would take such a devastating turn.”

According to him, the Monty Python troupe has complete ownership over all their Python creations. He also hinted that past management problems could be the reason behind his current situation.

When asked about the potential impact of a Netflix documentary, the response included a strong expression of disapproval towards both the genre of the film and the streaming platform.

However, he stated, “I am content with not having a lot of money. I enjoy making people laugh.”

Together with Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones, and Sir Michael Palin, Idle established the comedy troupe in 1969.

After their sketch comedy television series became a hit, the troupe went on to produce five films from 1971 to 1983.

Idle crafted the captivating mediaeval musical Spamalot in 2004, which garnered a well-deserved Tony Award for Best Musical during its successful run on Broadway. However, he mentioned that the show was profitable two decades ago.

In 2013, a producer of the 1975 film Monty Python And The Holy Grail emerged victorious in a High Court battle over royalty payments with the comedy team, securing a portion of the play’s profits.

Idle has also made appearances in Shrek The Third and, back in 2014, he had a starring role in Monty Python Live (Mostly) alongside some of his fellow troupe members.

The last date was announced in theatres worldwide on July 20th of that year. The group declined a highly profitable world tour, with Idle stating, “As we grow older, we become grumpy old men who prioritise staying at home over the amount of money offered.”

The initial performance was completely booked within a mere 43.5 seconds. Many tickets were sold for inflated prices after being listed on marketplace websites, with prices ranging from £27.50 to £95.

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In his most recent update on X, Idle, who is currently residing in Los Angeles, expressed gratitude towards his fans for their “kind words and encouragement” and assured them that he was doing well.

“I’m happily committed and working on my writing projects. It’s my favourite activity. Developing a fresh programme. Something that feels so utterly ordinary. Been doing it for over five decades. I have gained a wealth of knowledge. However, I was fortunate enough to have some exceptional mentors.”

In September 2022, Idle revealed that he had successfully overcome pancreatic cancer thanks to an early diagnosis. He also made a memorable appearance on the popular celebrity singing show, The Masked Singer, in the US.

Several other members of the troupe are still actively pursuing their work. In February, John Cleese shared exciting news about his latest project – a brand new stage show inspired by the beloved 1970s sitcom Fawlty Towers. Fans can look forward to the premiere of this highly anticipated show on 4 May.