Terry Jones, Beloved 'Monty Python' Star, Dead At 77
By Regina Star
January 22, 2020
Monty Python star Terry Jones has died. He was 77.
Jones, who had suffered from primary progressive aphasia — a degenerative disease that rendered him unable to speak — passed away with his wife by his side on Saturday (January 18), CNN learned early Wednesday morning via Britain’s PA Media news agency.
“Over the past few days his wife, children, extended family and many close friends have been constantly with Terry as he gently slipped away at his home in North London,” his family confirmed in a statement. “We have all lost a kind, funny, warm, creative and truly loving man whose uncompromising individuality, relentless intellect and extraordinary humour has given pleasure to countless millions across six decades.”
The actor-director, best known for his portrayals in Monty Python projects like The Meaning of Life and Life of Brian, was cherished for his hilarious depictions, namely for his unforgettable impersonations of middle-aged female characters. Outside of co-founding the famous comedy troupe, Jones also authored books, wrote poetry and TV programs, and even drafted the early screenplay for the 1986 David Bowie starrer Labyrinth.
In light of the devastating news, Jones’ co-stars and fans have been giving tributes in his honor.
"Terry was one of my closest, most valued friends. He was kind, generous, supportive and passionate about living life to the full,” Monty Python castmate Michael Palin told PA. “Farewell, Terry Jones. What a wonderful talent, heart and mind,” comedian Stephen Fry added in a tweet.
Scroll down for more heartfelt remembrances below.
So sad to hear about Terry Jones. Much of modern comedy has been informed by Monty Python. In the Life of Brian, they not only pushed the proverbial boundaries, but, IMO, Terry Jones delivered one of THE very best lines in comedy pic.twitter.com/ZEduWRMcZJ
— TheFastShow (@TheFastShow1) January 22, 2020
36 years ago I met Terry Jones. I was meant to interview him. I asked for tea, so he opened a bottle of Chablis & got me drunk. He was funny, brilliant and honest. He was irrepressible and is seen here repressing the very young me. Rest in Peace, Terry. You were an inspiration. pic.twitter.com/fNBJZwOFcX
— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) January 22, 2020
Lovely Terry Jones, the heart of Python. Ripping Yarns remains so gloriously funny, and Bert Fegg's Nasty Book For Boys & Girls made me laugh like a small fool when I was eight. Very sad to see him go.
— Simon Blackwell (@simonblackwell) January 22, 2020
Just heard about Terry J
— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) January 22, 2020
It feels strange that a man of so many talents and such endless enthusiasm, should have faded so gently away...
Of his many achievements, for me the greatest gift he gave us all was his direction of 'Life of Brian'. Perfection
Two down, four to go
Remember showing my kid Monty Python for the first time a few years ago. His review, through one of his little shoulder shaking laughs: "It's like they're deliberately trying to say the most stupid thing possible!" We'll all miss you Terry Jones.
— Frankie Boyle (@frankieboyle) January 22, 2020
Photo: Getty Images