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

channel5.com/show/michael-palin-in-venezuela

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

channel5.com/show/michael-palin-in-venezuela

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

bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b008n8yy/around-the…

The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash (1978)

imdb.com/title/tt0077147

Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)

itv.com/watch/monty-pythons-life-of-brian/10a5…

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

imdb.com/title/tt0075568

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

imdb.com/title/tt0138957

TV Show: ‘Q5’ (1969 –1980) - BBC

imdb.com/title/tt0063944

Terry Gilliam’s animations:

youtube.com/watch?v=47mB_UymAIc

Fish slapping dance:

youtube.com/watch?v=T8XeDvKqI4E

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

imdb.com/title/tt0758095

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

tv.apple.com/gb/episode/the-all-england-summar…

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

Sketch: Argument

youtube.com/watch?v=ohDB5gbtaEQ

Sketch: Dead/Resting Parrot

youtube.com/watch?v=vZw35VUBdzo

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

imdb.com/title/tt0072500

Sketch: The Ministry of Silly Walks

youtube.com/watch?v=iV2ViNJFZC8

Book: North Korea Journal, Michael Palin (2019)

themichaelpalin.com/north-korea-journal

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

youtube.com/watch?v=q1SddawMoz8

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

bbc.co.uk/videos/cyxe9180z84o

A Fish Called Wanda (1988)

imdb.com/title/tt0095159

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

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 

mindhouse.co.uk 

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