Michael Palin reveals whether there’s any chance of a Monty Python reunion

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Michael Palin, a beloved star from Monty Python, embarked on his travel adventures in the 1980s, notably with the journey Around the World in 80 Days. Since then, he has explored approximately 100 countries and, at 82 years old, continues to be full of energy and excitement without signs of losing enthusiasm. His latest destination is Venezuela.

What is it about Venezuela that made you want to go there?

As a film enthusiast, I’ve found myself immersed in crafting a collection of documentaries focused on intriguing nations brimming with untapped potential, yet somehow stuck in a state of dysfunction. My journey began with North Korea, followed by Iraq and Nigeria. Venezuela, with its tumultuous history, seemed like the perfect fit for my series – a nation that once controlled the oil industry and was awash with wealth from the 1950s to the 1980s, only to experience a sudden and dramatic collapse.

You don’t shy away from documenting the state’s control. Did you feel intimidated at all?

It became clear during my interactions that individuals might not express their true thoughts on camera as they would in private conversations. On a particular day, our filming was halted by military intelligence in an area where we were told we didn’t have authorization to shoot. A group of seven to eight men dressed in black flak jackets and armed with rifles intervened, preventing us from continuing our filming. They requested to inspect all of our belongings, leading us to open our bags on the street for thorough examination, which was then photographed.

Venezuela has incredible natural beauty – what sets it apart?

I hail from a land so expansive, it rivals the combined territories of Spain and France – a land known as Venezuela. This vast nation boasts an astounding variety of landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the majestic Andes to the idyllic shores of the Caribbean. The southern rainforest, with its towering mountains and cascading waterfalls, is a sight to behold, and it’s no wonder Arthur Conan Doyle chose this mystical place as the setting for his novel, The Lost World. The silence here is deafening, the space immense, and the population sparse, making encounters with alligators more common than human companionship!

Which role best describes you currently – someone who is a traveling comedian, or an actor with a knack for humor?

After graduating from university, comedy writing became my initial profession. Since then, I’ve been grabbing opportunities as they come along. My unique sense of humor has been a constant driving force for me, and I genuinely appreciate acting, a skill I am confident in possessing. Beyond that, I just take on roles that align with those specific qualifications. I’ve never deliberately planned my career path, stating “I want to do this or that.” In truth, I’m rather bewildered most of the time.

What is the strangest situation in which you’ve been quoted lines from Monty Python?

Upon arriving at Paris via Eurostar, a guard requested to inspect my luggage, to which I reluctantly agreed. As they rifled through my belongings, I noticed several individuals snickering. Finally, the guard lightheartedly commented, “Even in France, nobody anticipates the French Inquisition,” causing everyone to burst into laughter. They certainly had me fooled!

What was the special Python sauce?

Our gathering was comprised of individuals who shared a common appreciation for humor. For some, this humor was rooted in frustration and anger, while others found joy in being quirky and delightful. Our interactions served as fuel for each other’s humor, creating a fiery bond that burned brightly when we first came together. However, over the course of two to three years, this connection began to fade gradually.

Is there ever talk of reuniting?

Originally, there were six individuals involved – contributing as both writers and performers. However, Terry [Jones] and Graham [Chapman] are no longer with us, leaving gaps in our team. Our performances in 2014 were truly delightful, serving as a reunion that we all cherished, but I don’t believe we will revive it again.

How often do you now meet up?

What do you do when at home?

When I’m engrossed in writing a book or similar projects, I find immense joy in the process. Work becomes a pleasure for me. If given an opportunity, I would likely spend my free time lounging in the garden with a glass of wine, lost in a good book. Just as one doesn’t visit Paris only once after enjoying it, I believe in revisiting good books too!

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2025-09-09 02:58