50 Facts About John Cleese

Early Life and Education

John Cleese, a name synonymous with comedy, has a fascinating background that shaped his illustrious career. Let's explore his early years and academic journey.

1. John Marwood Cleese was born on October 27, 1939, in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, England. His parents, Muriel and Reginald Cleese, were pivotal in his upbringing.

2. His father worked as a civil servant, which meant the family moved around England during John's childhood, exposing him to various cultures and experiences.

3. Cleese attended Clifton College in Bristol, a prestigious school that laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

4. He later studied law at the University of Cambridge, where he joined the renowned Footlights Club, a breeding ground for comedic talent.

The Footlights and Early Career

Cleese's time at Cambridge and his involvement with the Footlights Club were instrumental in launching his career in comedy.

5. In 1963, Cleese was part of the Footlights Revue A Clump of Plinths, which toured internationally as Cambridge Circus.

6. This success led to a writing job for BBC radio, marking the beginning of his professional journey in entertainment.

7. Cleese contributed to several BBC radio programs, including I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again, which ran from 1965 to 1974.

8. His breakthrough on British television came with The Frost Report in 1966, where he performed the iconic "Class" sketch.

Monty Python and Beyond

John Cleese's work with Monty Python revolutionized comedy, leaving a lasting legacy.

9. In 1969, Cleese co-founded Monty Python, a comedy troupe that changed the landscape of humor with Monty Python's Flying Circus.

10. The show aired for four series from 1969 to 1974, with Cleese leaving after the third series but continuing to contribute.

11. Cleese starred in several Monty Python films, including Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) and Life of Brian (1979).

12. His comedic style often involves looking normal while doing absurd things, a hallmark of his work with Monty Python.

Personal Life and Collaborations

Cleese's personal life and collaborations have been as intriguing as his professional achievements.

13. In 1968, Cleese married American actress Connie Booth, with whom he shared a unique wedding devoid of theistic language.

14. Booth became Cleese's writing partner, and together they created the classic sitcom Fawlty Towers.

15. Cleese played Basil Fawlty, a hotel owner in absurd situations, in Fawlty Towers, which aired from 1975 to 1979.

16. He collaborated with Peter Cook, an influential British comedian, forming a close friendship and working on several projects.

Influence and Legacy

John Cleese's influence on comedy is undeniable, with his work inspiring generations of comedians.

17. Cleese and Monty Python upended British comedy in the 1960s, introducing a surreal and absurd style that changed the genre forever.

18. Despite his work being decades old, Cleese is still recognized everywhere, from Northern Europe to Singapore.

19. He enjoys stage performances, believing that making people laugh is a timeless human activity.

20. Cleese's film career includes roles in movies like Silverado (1985) and A Fish Called Wanda (1988).

21. He has done extensive voice work, lending his distinctive voice to animated films like the Shrek series and Trolls (2016).

22. Monty Python's influence on comedy is immense, inspiring countless comedians and writers worldwide.

23. After Terry Jones's passing, Cleese spoke about his admiration for his Monty Python colleague.

24. In his later years, Cleese has reflected on his career, noting its lasting impact on British comedy and popular culture.

Recognition and Tours

Even at an advanced age, Cleese remains a beloved figure in comedy, continuing to engage with audiences.

25. Despite being 84 years old, Cleese cannot walk in public without being recognized by fans.

26. In 2020, at 80, Cleese embarked on a new tour, Last Time To See Me Before I Die, reflecting on his career.

27. Cleese is most well known for his work with the Cambridge University Footlights Dramatic Club, where many comedic actors made their names.

28. During his time at Cambridge, Cleese saw Beyond the Fringe, a show that changed British culture by challenging authority.

29. Cleese's early success came at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with Cambridge Circus, which was so successful it toured New Zealand and Broadway.

30. After Cambridge Circus, Cleese briefly stayed in America, performing on and off-Broadway, where he met Terry Gilliam and Connie Booth.

Iconic Sketches and Characters

Cleese's work in sketch comedy has produced some of the most memorable moments in television history.

31. Cleese and Graham Chapman began writing sketches involving authority figures, performed by Cleese himself.

32. The "Class" sketch from The Frost Report is a classic moment in British television history, showcasing Cleese's comedic prowess.

33. The "Four Yorkshiremen" sketch, written for At Last the 1948 Show, has become a staple of British comedy.

34. One of Cleese's primary characterizations in Monty Python's Flying Circus was as a series of announcers and government officials.

35. The "Ministry of Silly Walks" sketch is perhaps one of the most iconic from the show, highlighting Cleese's physical comedy skills.

36. Cleese's portrayal of Mr. Praline in the "Cheese Shop" sketch is another iconic moment from Monty Python's Flying Circus.

37. His working-class "Sergeant Major" character in Monty Python's Flying Circus showcases his versatility in playing different roles.

38. Monty Python's influence on comedy is immense, inspiring countless comedians and writers worldwide.

39. Cleese's work in film extends beyond Monty Python, with notable roles in movies like Silverado and A Fish Called Wanda.

40. He has done extensive voice work in animation films, including the Shrek series and Trolls.

41. Cleese played the ghost Nearly Headless Nick in two Harry Potter films, showcasing his ability to adapt to different genres.

42. In his later years, Cleese has reflected on his personal life, noting the importance of his marriage to Connie Booth.

43. Cleese has often reflected on his career, noting its lasting impact on British comedy and popular culture.

44. Despite being 84 years old, Cleese still cannot walk around in public without being recognized by fans.

45. In 2020, at the age of 80, Cleese embarked on a new tour, Last Time To See Me Before I Die, reflecting on his career.

46. Cleese is most well known for his work with the Cambridge University Footlights Dramatic Club, where many comedic actors made their names.

47. During his time at Cambridge, Cleese saw Beyond the Fringe, a show that changed British culture by challenging authority.

48. Cleese's early success came at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with Cambridge Circus, which was so successful it toured New Zealand and Broadway.

49. After Cambridge Circus, Cleese briefly stayed in America, performing on and off-Broadway, where he met Terry Gilliam and Connie Booth.

50. Cleese's success with the Footlights Revue led to his involvement in several BBC radio programs, including The Dick Emery Show and I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again.

A Lasting Legacy in Comedy

John Cleese has carved out a legendary status in the world of comedy. From his early days at the Cambridge University Footlights Dramatic Club to his iconic roles in Monty Python and Fawlty Towers, Cleese has consistently pushed the boundaries of humor. His unique style—combining absurdity with a touch of the everyday—has left an indelible mark on British comedy and beyond. Whether it's the unforgettable "Ministry of Silly Walks" or the timeless "Class" sketch, his work continues to inspire and entertain. Even at 84, Cleese remains a beloved figure, recognized everywhere he goes. His ability to adapt to different roles and genres, along with his enduring popularity, makes him a true icon in the entertainment industry. As fans continue to enjoy his work, Cleese's influence on comedy will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.