Tributes flow in upon the passing of Monty Python's Terry Jones
Monty Python stars Michael Palin and John Cleese have led the tributes to Terry Jones, who has died at the age of 77.
The actor and writer died at his North London home on Tuesday evening, four years after he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
“His work with Monty Python, his books, films, television programs, poems and other work will live on forever, a fitting legacy to a true polymath,” Jones’ family said in a statement.
“We, his wife Anna, children Bill, Sally, Siri and extended family would like to thank Terry’s wonderful medical professionals and carers for making the past few years not only bearable but often joyful. We hope that this disease will one day be eradicated entirely.”
Tributes have flowed for the late Python, with fellow Flying Circus stars leading the remembrance.
“It feels strange that a man of so many talents and such endless enthusiasm, should have faded so gently away,” John Cleese wrote.
“Of his many achievements, for me the greatest gift he gave us all was his direction of Life of Brian. Perfection.”
“It’s too sad if you knew him, but if you didn’t you will always smile at the many wonderfully funny moments he gave us,” said Eric Idle.
Co-writer Sir Michael Palin told PA news agency: “He was kind, generous, supportive and passionate about living life to the full.
“He was far more than one of the funniest writer-performers of his generation, he was the complete Renaissance comedian – writer, director, presenter, historian, brilliant children’s author, and the warmest, most wonderful company you could wish to have.”
Other celebrities and comedy figures also honoured Jones on social media.
Jones’ comedy series Monty Python’s Flying Circus first aired in October 1969. The show propelled the Monty Python group’s popularity and was followed by a number of films, including Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975), Life of Brian (1979) and The Meaning of Life (1983).