Eric Idle, star of Monty Python, has spoken out about his need to work at the age of 80 for financial reasons. He explained that he is not wealthy and “has to work for my living”; Idle confessed in a statement on Twitter that he sold his home last year. The legendary comedian and actor is perhaps best known for his role in Monty Python And The Holy Grail as Sir Robin the-Not-Quite-So-Brave-as-Sir-Lancelot. Idle also created the musical Spamalot, which later won a Tony Award for Best Musical.
In response to the assumption that he is financially comfortable, Idle noted: “I don’t know why people always assume we’re loaded. Python is a disaster. Spamalot made money 20 years ago.” Idle stated that the income streams for Monty Python had “tailed off so disastrously”, partially because of management issues in the past.
Despite the financial pressures, Idle remains engaged in his work and is “fine…engaged and writing…it’s the thing I do and like the most”. He has been dedicated to his entertainment career since 1963 and while he has come a long way he has had some great mentors. In September 2022, Idle shared that he had survived pancreatic cancer after receiving an early diagnosis.
Idle’s comments highlight the continued difficulty of maintaining financial stability in the arts. While he has undoubtedly had success throughout his long career, the actor’s financial situation is a reminder that not all entertainers have the longevity and robust income streams that are necessary for a comfortable retirement.
In spite of these challenges, Eric Idle’s passion for his craft hasn’t faded, he’s still making audiences laugh and is admired by people around the world.
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