50 Facts About Eric Idle

Early Life and Education

Eric Idle's journey began in South Shields, England, where he was born on March 29, 1943. His early years were marked by significant events that shaped his future.

1. Eric Idle was born on March 29, 1943, in South Shields, England.
2. He attended Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he studied English.
3. Idle joined the Cambridge Footlights in 1963, becoming its president in 1965.
4. During his tenure, he was instrumental in opening the membership to women.

The Road to Monty Python

Before becoming a household name with Monty Python, Idle honed his comedic skills on various platforms, collaborating with future Python members.

5. Idle worked on the television comedy series "Do Not Adjust Your Set," which also featured future Python castmates Terry Jones and Michael Palin.
6. In 1969, Idle co-created and acted in "Monty Python's Flying Circus" with Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin.
7. The show ran for four seasons and became a cult classic.

Monty Python Films and Iconic Contributions

Idle's contributions to Monty Python extended beyond the TV series, as he played a significant role in their films and wrote some of their most memorable songs.

8. Idle contributed to "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" (1975), "Life of Brian" (1979), and "The Meaning of Life" (1983).
9. He wrote and performed several iconic songs, such as "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" and "Galaxy Song".

Unique Talents and Personal Life

Idle's creative dyslexia and personal connections have influenced his work and relationships in the entertainment industry.

10. Idle describes himself as having "creative dyslexia," meaning he can look at any word and automatically see the anagrams that can be made from it.
11. One of the characters he played in "Monty Python's Flying Circus" was a man who speaks only in anagrams.
12. Steve Martin calls Eric Idle his mentor.
13. Idle was a close friend of Robin Williams, with whom he collaborated on several projects.
14. Idle has two children: Carey (born 1973) with Lyn Ashley and Lily (born 1990) with Tania Kosevich.
15. He has homes in St Johns Wood, London, and Provence, France.
16. Idle was a longtime friend of George Harrison, who provided part of the production money for "Monty Python's Life of Brian" (1979).

Monty Python Live and Spamalot

Idle's work with Monty Python continued to evolve, leading to successful live performances and the creation of the Tony Award-winning musical "Spamalot."

17. In 2014, the Pythons performed Monty Python Live (Mostly) at the O2 Arena in London, with Eric Idle writing and directing the show.
18. Idle co-wrote and starred in the Tony Award-winning musical "Spamalot," which premiered on Broadway in 2005.

Author and Environmental Activist

Idle's talents extend beyond comedy and music, as he has authored several books and is an active environmental advocate.

19. Idle has authored several books, including "The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash" and "The Greedy Bastard Diary."
20. He is an environmental activist and has been involved in various charitable causes.

Recognition and Awards

Idle's contributions to entertainment have been recognized with numerous awards and honors.

21. Idle received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
22. In 2009, Eric Idle and the other surviving members of Monty Python accepted the BAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award.
23. Idle made his Broadway debut with "Monty Python's Spamalot," which premiered in 2005.
24. In 2007, Idle signed a deal to have "Spamalot" performed in Wynn's Resorts in Las Vegas.

Film Appearances and Other Projects

Idle's versatility is evident in his various film roles and other creative projects.

25. Idle co-wrote and starred in the film "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen" (1988).
26. He appeared in "Nuns on the Run" (1990) alongside Robbie Coltrane.
27. Idle played a significant role in the Disney film "Casper" (1995).
28. Idle wrote and starred in "The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash," a mockumentary about a Beatles-like band.
29. In 1994, Idle appeared as Dr. Nigel Channing in the 3-D film "Honey, I Shrunk the Audience."

Memorable Songs and Performances

Idle's musical talent has produced some of the most memorable songs and performances in comedy.

30. One of Idle's most famous compositions is "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" from "Life of Brian."
31. On August 12, 2012, Eric performed "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" live at the London Olympic Games Closing Ceremony.

Advocacy and Personal Interests

Idle's advocacy for women's rights and animal rights reflects his broader commitment to social justice.

32. Idle is a longtime advocate for women’s rights and animal rights.
33. He is an accomplished guitarist and has played guitar in various musical projects.

Additional Roles and Contributions

Idle's career includes a variety of roles and contributions to different genres and projects.

34. In 1996, Idle played Ratty in Terry Jones' version of "The Wind in the Willows."
35. Idle wrote, starred in, and executive-produced the film "Splitting Heirs" (1993).
36. Idle's musical "Monty Python's Spamalot" at the Nightblue Performing Arts Theatre in Chicago was nominated for a 2014 Joseph Jefferson Non-Equity Award.

Legacy and Influence

Idle's legacy in comedy and entertainment is marked by his creativity, wit, and lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

37. Idle was born on the same date as Vangelis, the famous composer of the soundtrack for "Blade Runner."
38. Idle was a member of Monty Python along with John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman, and Terry Gilliam.
39. Idle is the president of Prominent Features, whose productions include "Splitting Heirs," "A Fish Called Wanda," "Erik the Viking," "American Friends," and "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen."
40. In 2010, John Du Prez and Eric Idle were awarded the Musical Score for "Monty Python's Spamalot" at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles.
41. Idle made his West End debut in 1963 in the musical "One Over the Eight."
42. He has since appeared in productions of "The Mikado," "The Pirates of Penzance," and "The Wind in the Willows."
43. Idle's Broadway debut was in 2004 with "Monty Python's Spamalot," which won several awards including the Tony Award for Best Musical.
44. In 1999, Idle was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to entertainment.
45. In 2016, he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
46. Idle's legacy in comedy is multifaceted, from his work with Monty Python to his successful career as a writer, actor, and musician.
47. His humor, wit, and creativity continue to captivate audiences around the world.
48. Idle's influence extends beyond his own work, as he has mentored and inspired other comedians and entertainers.
49. His commitment to important causes and social justice reflects his broader impact on society.
50. Eric Idle remains one of the most beloved figures in British comedy, with a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and entertain.

Eric Idle's Lasting Impact

Eric Idle's career is a testament to his versatility and creativity. From his early days with the Cambridge Footlights to his iconic work with Monty Python, he's left a mark on comedy and entertainment. His contributions to films like "Life of Brian" and "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" are legendary. Beyond comedy, Idle's talents as a musician, author, and activist shine through. His song "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" has become an anthem for many. Idle's influence extends to mentoring comedians like Steve Martin and maintaining friendships with legends like George Harrison. His work in theater with "Spamalot" and his environmental activism further showcase his multifaceted nature. Eric Idle's legacy is one of laughter, music, and a commitment to making the world a better place.