Comedy legend John Cleese, at 85, is not holding back on the realities of aging and his intense health struggles. He’s on a demanding tour and admits it “might kill” him! What keeps these icons pushing their limits?
John Cleese’s candid reflections on his extensive health struggles and the demanding nature of his current tour offer a poignant glimpse into the life of an enduring comedic icon navigating the complexities of advanced age.
At 85, the legendary Monty Python star openly shares a litany of physical challenges, including two hip replacements, a knee replacement, deafness in one ear, and a fitted pacemaker, painting a vivid picture of the physical toll his body has endured.
Beyond these surgical interventions, Cleese also contends with a diagnosis of type two diabetes, adding another layer to his ongoing health battles. His transparency offers a relatable perspective on living with multiple chronic conditions.
In a proactive effort to prolong life and manage the effects of ageing, the actor revealed his significant investment in stem cell treatments, undergoing procedures every 12 to 18 months at a clinic in Switzerland. This commitment underscores his determination to maintain his well-being.
Despite these significant personal challenges, Cleese embarked on an ambitious 23-show tour across five countries, a venture he candidly admitted “might kill” him due to its exhausting nature. This stark admission highlights the immense physical demands placed on a performer of his age.
The rigorous tour forms the backdrop for his upcoming documentary, “John Cleese Packs It In,” chronicling his journey. Interestingly, this current apprehension about mortality contrasts with past statements where the comedy legend expressed a readiness for death as early as 2014, also citing disillusionment with the film industry’s workload.
The article also touches upon the complex personal dynamics within the iconic Monty Python group, with Cleese revealing that the members were “never huge friends.” This insight sheds light on the internal relationships behind one of comedy’s most beloved ensembles, further evidenced by his long-running feud with fellow Python Eric Idle.
Rising to global fame in the late 1960s with “Monty Python’s Flying Circus,” John Cleese, alongside Graham Chapman, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin, established a comedic legacy that extended into successful film spin-offs, books, and live shows, solidifying their place in entertainment history.
