Monty Python veteran Eric Idle recently opened up about his financial situation in a candid exchange on social media platform X. Reflecting on his career spanning nearly five decades since the release of the iconic “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” Idle expressed surprise at public assumptions about his wealth.
“I don’t know why people always assume we’re loaded, ”80-year-old Mr. Idle shared. “Python is a disaster. ‘Spamalot’ made money twenty years ago. I have to work for my living. Not easy at this age.”
Mr. Idle, a pivotal figure in the Monty Python comedy troupe, co-wrote and starred in the film alongside John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Graham Chapman, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin.
The enduring comedy, set in medieval times, humorously chronicles King Arthur and his knights’ quest for the Holy Grail, intertwining historical elements with contemporary satire.
Reflecting on the financial challenges of aging in the entertainment industry, Idle remarked, “We own everything we ever made in Python, and I never dreamed that at this age the income streams would tail off so disastrously.” He humorously added, “But I guess if you put a Gilliam child in as your manager you should not be so surprised. One Gilliam is bad enough. Two can take out any company.”
Mr. Idle further asserted that the camaraderie within the group was not as tight-knit as fans might perceive. “I still hold affection and pride for our contributions as Python. It was a truly distinct ensemble,” he conveyed. “I liken us to a former Liverpool team. We functioned cohesively on the field. Back in the day. However, it wasn’t particularly nurturing of individuals’ sentiments and connections. Not akin to brothers. More like colleagues.”
In response to Mr. Idle’s comments about Terry and Holly Gilliam, Monty Python member John Cleese reignited rumors about the group members falling out.
“I have collaborated with Holly for the past decade, finding her to be remarkably efficient, clear-headed, hard-working, and pleasant in our interactions,” Mr. Cleese stated. He also highlighted that fellow “Python” comrade Michael Palin shared this view and emphasized Terry Gilliam’s concurrence.
The British press picked up on the apparent discord within the Python ranks, prompting Mr. Cleese to clarify his statement about mutual disdain.
Responding to Mr. Idle’s reflections, fans expressed admiration for his comedic legacy and lamented the financial challenges he faces. One supporter mused, “If the universe were in true alignment, you would be among the wealthiest, Eric.” Another echoed the sentiment, stating, “That is a crying shame. A scandal. You are one of the greatest comic artists of the age and deserve so much better.”
Acknowledging Monty Python’s enduring impact on popular culture, a fan tweeted, “Monty Python is the second greatest contribution of Albion to human civilization (after Will o’Stratford). It will never be a disaster.”
In 2004, Mr. Idle revived the Holy Grail saga with “Spamalot,” a Broadway musical adaptation that garnered widespread acclaim. “Spamalot” clinched the prestigious 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical and received a total of 14 nominations.
Despite financial setbacks, Mr. Idle remains active in the entertainment sphere, having written the play “What About Dick?” starring Tim Curry, and Jane Leeves, performed at prestigious events like the 2012 Summer Olympics closing ceremony, and ventured into television with appearances on “The Masked Singer.”
Recent reports reveal that Idle has listed his Hollywood Hills residence for sale at $6.5 million, as noted by the Hollywood Reporter.
