Eric Idle, comedian and writer

Eric Idle has been making audiences around the world laugh for nearly 60 years. As a member of the legendary Monty Python group, he helped redefine British television comedy – followed by three highly successful original Python films.

Eric also wrote numerous songs for the Pythons, including Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, which has become highly popular at British funerals.

He also created and co-wrote the hit stage musical Spamalot, which brought the anarchic Monty Python spirit to Broadway, the West End and beyond.

His most recent book is called Idle in Provence: A Brief History of Thyme. It’s a memoir focusing on his house in southern France - originally a crumbling stone ruin, now a lifelong retreat and source of inspiration.

His musical passions include works by Elgar, Haydn and Dvorak.

Presenter Michael Berkeley
Producer Clare Walker