Eric Idle and John Cleese’s Public Feud Explained: A Comedy Clash

Eric Idle has explained his ongoing feud with Monty Python co-star John Cleese. The conflict intensified when Idle declared their friendship “over” in February due to changes in management within Monty Python.

Cleese commented that he and Idle have “always loathed and despised each other.” Idle claims that Cleese fired the troupe’s former manager, Jim Beach, and replaced him with Holly, Terry Gilliam’s daughter. Idle believes Holly is the reason he still has to work at the age of 80.

In September, Cleese dismissed Idle’s claims, calling them “an invention.” During an appearance on the podcast Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend, Idle stated that their disagreements center solely on financial matters. He emphasized that their lack of communication over the years contributes to misunderstandings, mentioning that he has not seen Cleese in ten years.

Cleese, in support of Holly’s management, described her as “very efficient” and noted that fellow Monty Python member Michael Palin shares this view.

In May, Cleese, Palin, and Gilliam celebrated Palin’s 81st birthday together, without Idle, and shared a jovial moment on social media.