The Louis Theroux Podcast

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

13 Oct 2025

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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

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The Louis Theroux Podcast

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

This episode hasn't been transcribed yet

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S6 EP8: Jimmy Carr discusses the secret to his comedy, being a late bloomer, and controversial stand-up gigs

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