Eric Idle Goes on Rant About Former ‘Monty Python’ Co-Stars

Eric Idle attends the Monty Python Press Conference during the 2015 Tribeca Film Festival at SVA Theater on April 24, 2015 in New York City
Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for the 2015 Tribeca Film Festival

Actor Eric Idle was in the mood to cause some trouble on social media over the weekend. He started complaining about past jobs, co-stars, and even the streaming service Netflix. Idle was a part of the comedy troupe Monty Python and its movies along with stars Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, and Terry Gilliam. Idle had some choice words for Gilliam and Cleese, in particular.

First, he began his rant by complaining that he has to continue to work at 80 years old, despite appearing in cult-classic films. He wrote, “I don’t know why people always assume we’re loaded. Python is a disaster. Spamalot made money 20 years ago. I have to work for my living. Not easy at this age.”

Monty Python and the Holy Grail Eric Idle, Michael Palin (top), John Cleese, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman as King Arthur, 1975

Everett Collection

He continued, “We own everything we ever made in Python and I never dreamed that at this age the income streams would tail off so disastrously. 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.” Gilliam and his daughter, Holly run HDG Projects, which manages Monty Python.

While he was executing his “Twitter fingers,” a fan asked if he was still close to Cleese, to which he responded, “I haven’t seen Cleese for seven years.” When a fan said that made them sad, he responded, “Why. It makes me happy.” He also spoke out against Netflix and documentaries in general when someone suggested that one be made about the rise and fall of Monty Python.

Molly Shannon, Jennifer Holiday and Eric Idle are guests on "GMA DAY," Tuesday, October 2, 2018. "GMA Day" airs Monday-Friday (1pm-2pm, ET) on the Walt Disney Television via Getty Images Television Network

Paula Lobo/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

His daughter, Lily was seemingly happy that he had finally spoken out against some of his former friends. She shared, “I’m so proud of my dad for finally starting to share the truth. He has always stood up to bullies and narcissists and absolutely deserves reassurance and validation for doing so.” These days, Idle said that he is writing, creating a new show, and is generally, doing well.

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March 2017

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