‘Monty Python’ Star Terry Jones Dead at 77

Terry Jones, one of the six comedians that make up the Monty Python comedy troupe, has passed away at the age of 77. For the last few years of his life, Jones was battling a rare form of dementia called primary progressive aphasia. Jones was at home alongside his wife when he died Saturday evening, according to a statement from his family.

“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,” the statement said. “We have all lost a kind, funny, warm, creative and truly loving man whose uncompromising individuality, relentless intellect and extraordinary humor has given pleasure to countless millions across six decades.”

Of the many contributions Jones made to Monty Python, perhaps the most notable was his decision to often abandon punchlines at the end of sketches, creating the stream of consciousness style that set “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” apart from other comedy programs at the time. 

Jones co-directed “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” the most well-known of their films, and then directed “Life of Brian” and “The Meaning of Life” on his own. 

As impressive as his contributions to the cult comedy troupe were, one may argue that Jones’ post Python achievements were even more impressive. Jones was a prolific writer of both children’s literature and Medieval history. In a 2011 interview with the BBC, Jones said that he hoped his legacy would focus on these aspects of his career.  

Other members of Monty Python have reacted to the news on social media, with John Cleese, in particular, showing a bit of the gallows humor that the troupe was known for.

Just heard about Terry J

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

— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) January 22, 2020

Others within the comedy community also expressed their sorrow. 

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

Farewell, Terry Jones. The great foot has come down to stamp on you. My god what pleasure you gave, what untrammelled joy and delight. What a wonderful talent, heart and mind

— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 22, 2020

A very fond farewell to Terry Jones: Not only 1/6 of the Pythons, Mr Creosote, Arthur Two Sheds Jackson, Dino Vercotti, Mandy Cohen, Prince Herbert, Cardinal Biggles & the Nude Organist, but also esteemed director of all time comedy classic; 'Life Of Brian'. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/PeBDlvGfsD

— edgarwright (@edgarwright) January 22, 2020

Terry Jones was the only Python who agreed to appear in The Young Ones. It was like affirmation from God himself. This was the man who’d directed what was, and still is, the funniest feature film ever made. We loved him for it, and always will. Sadly, he’s eaten his last mint…

— Adrian Edmondson ❎ (@AdrianEdmondson) January 22, 2020

Jones will clearly be missed. In his honor, we present one of the many ways that his legacy will live on, through Monty Python tattoos that fans have gotten over the years. Enjoy.