Idle Reflects on Comedy, Python, and Life After Cancer
The legendary comedian discusses Trump, AI, and his upcoming tour.
Following his recovery from pancreatic cancer, **Eric Idle**, now 83, is preparing for his first UK tour since 1973. The comedy icon shared insights on topics ranging from **Donald Trump** to the future of AI, and his experiences with **Monty Python**.
Trump Criticism
**Idle** didn’t mince words when asked about **Donald Trump**, telling **Tracy Ullman** that “There’s nothing funny about **Donald Trump**… I think he’s a treasonous monster who works for **Putin**.”
He also expressed his need to escape the constant news cycle surrounding the former president.
The Bright Side of Life
When asked about what brings him joy, **Idle** referenced the impact of Always Look on the Bright Side of Life
, sharing, “What makes me proudest is that Always Look on the Bright Side of Life has become a funeral song. I find that very moving.”
Comedy’s Boundaries
Addressing the limits of comedy in a question from **Catherine Zeta-Jones**, **Idle** noted the current environment where “they’re stopping comedians at the border and if they have pictures of **Trump** on their phone they don’t like, they don’t let them in.”
He recalled **Charlie Chaplin** being thrown out of America for political reasons.
Lessons from Robin Williams
On interactions with fans, **Idle** shared a lesson learned from **Robin Williams**: “[being nice] is very important to people… because they’ll never forget it.”
Remembering George Harrison
**Idle** spoke fondly of **George Harrison**’s pivotal role in funding *Life of Brian*. “He changed my life,”
**Idle** said, noting their close bond and conversations about death and rebirth.
AI and Humor
**Idle** expressed skepticism about AI’s ability to generate original humor, believing that true humor stems from self-awareness, something AI lacks. The global artificial intelligence (AI) market is expected to reach almost $200 billion in 2024, a 37.5% increase from 2023 (Gartner).
Python Conflicts and Collaborations
Addressing questions about **Spamalot** royalties, **Idle** alluded to tensions with his former **Python** teammates, stating, “They got more fucking money than they’ve ever been grateful for… They got fucking millions and they’re miserable and horrible and bitchy about it.”
He credited **John Du Prez** as a brilliant partner
for 44 years.
Remembering Peter Cook
**Idle** identified **Peter Cook** as the funniest person he had ever known, adding that seeing **Beyond the Fringe** changed my life…
and that it was very liberating.
Looking Ahead
Despite past challenges, **Eric Idle** remains active and engaged, preparing for his UK tour. The comedian’s reflections provide insights into his creative process, his relationships, and his perspective on the world today.
