Monty Python wow fans with live return including guests Stephen Fry and Stephen Hawking

Monty Python stars reunited for the first time in decades and put on a huge performance to wow their fans.

18:01 02 July 2014

Monty Python stars John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, and Terry Jones kicked off their final run of reunion farewell gigs in flamboyant fashion on Tuesday night. 

 

The veteran comics did not disappoint their fans at the London’s O2 on the opening night. The show included the famous Dead Parrot sketch, Nudge Nudge, Four Yorkshireman, the Bruces and the Lumberjack Song

 

Before the show, 71-year-old Eric Idle said: “I have to say the show is pretty filthy, I am happy and proud to say that.” He then shocked the fans as he and Palin stripped down to red and black women’s underwear that left little to the imagination. 

 

Stephen Hawking appeared in the show on video with Professor Brian Cox. Idle explained: “He’s a big Python fan so he was asked if he would and within one minute he said yes.” 

 

Another celebrity guest was Stephen Fry who had a minor role. He went on to describe seeing the legends sharing a stage again as being akin to going to a Beatles reunion gig.

 

The show was a mixture of songs, sketches, video, and animation. The sixth Python, the late Graham Chapman, was also remembered in the event. Idle said: “Graham is on screen and even sings the last number.

 

“We want to make his presence noticeable in the show so he is not totally absent and he is not forgotten.”

 

Reviews from the national press was mixed with detractors bemoaning the lack of new material and the cash-in nature of the show, while others praised the group's timeless appeal.