S6 EP2: Michael Palin discusses Monty Python dynamics, famous fans, and ‘Life of Brian’ controversies

In this week’s episode, Louis speaks with the legendary comedian, writer and adventurer Michael Palin. Joining Louis at Spotify HQ, Michael details the fiery group dynamics within Monty Python, having Johnny Cash and George Harrison as famous fans, and the controversies surrounding Life Of Brian. Plus, Michael and Louis discuss whether being ’nice’ is a help or a hindrance.

Warnings: Strong language and adult themes.

Links/Attachments:

TV Show: ‘Michael Palin in Venezuela’ (2025) - Channel 5

https://www.channel5.com/show/michael-palin-in-venezuela

TV Show Episode: Whicker’s World from ‘Monty Python’s Flying Circus’ (1972) - BBC

https://www.channel5.com/show/michael-palin-in-venezuela

TV Show: ‘Michael Palin: Around the World in 80 Days’ (1989) - BBC

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b008n8yy/around-the-world-in-80-days-with-michael-palin

The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash (1978)

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077147/

Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)

https://www.itv.com/watch/monty-pythons-life-of-brian/10a5145a0001B/10a5145a0001

TV Show: ‘Ripping Yarns’ (1976 -1979) - BBC

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075568/

TV Special: ‘Beyond the Fringe’ (1964) - BBC

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0138957/

TV Show: ‘Q5’ (1969 –1980) - BBC

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0063944/

Terry Gilliam’s animations:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47mB_UymAIc

Fish slapping dance:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8XeDvKqI4E

TV Show Episode: ‘Whither Canada?’ (1969)

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0758095/

TV Show Episode: ‘The All-England Summarise Proust Competition’ (1972)

https://tv.apple.com/gb/episode/the-all-england-summarize-proust-competition-edit/umc.cmc.2wheg7yvkb0w3w55freoic0j2?action=play

Album: Monty Python’s Previous Record https://open.spotify.com/album/1GkvGswqHgUyMb5kIlGU2R

Sketch: Argument

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohDB5gbtaEQ

Sketch: Dead/Resting Parrot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZw35VUBdzo

TV Show: ‘Fawlty Towers’ (1975-1979) - BBC

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072500/

Sketch: The Ministry of Silly Walks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV2ViNJFZC8

Book: North Korea Journal, Michael Palin (2019)

https://www.themichaelpalin.com/north-korea-journal/

TV Show: ‘Michael Palin: Travels of a Lifetime’ (2020) - BBC

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1SddawMoz8

Life of Brian Debate with Malcolm Muggeridge (1979) - BBC

https://www.bbc.co.uk/videos/cyxe9180z84o

A Fish Called Wanda (1988)

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095159/

Short Story: In The Penal Colony, Franz Kafka (1919)

https://www.kafka-online.info/in-the-penal-colony.html

Credits:

Producer: Millie Chu

Assistant Producer: Emilia Gill

Production Manager: Francesca Bassett

Music: Miguel D’Oliveira

Audio Mixer: Tom Guest

Video Mixer: Scott Edwards

Shownotes compiled by Elly Young

Executive Producer: Arron Fellows

A Mindhouse Production for Spotify

www.mindhouse.co.uk

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices