John Cleese

I had one last chance to see John Cleese before he died. I hope I don’t sound rude and obnoxious, but that’s how John Cleese billed his show at The Vic that I saw on Thursday, June 13, 2024. He was very entertaining even when referring to his impending mortality.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from his performance. After I bought the tickets, I read that sometimes John Cleese showed the movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail at the end. Well, I could watch the movie on my own if I wanted to see it since I own it on DVD along with other Monty Python shows and movies.

Instead, John explained some of the background to their shows and movies, which was very entertaining. He explained how the family name had actually been Cheese, but his grandfather (or maybe it was his great grandfather) decided to change the family name to Cleese (but it rhymed with cheese).

I really enjoyed the show! He showed clips from previous TV shows. He also told some politically incorrect jokes, which the audience loved. When you’re old you can get away with such humor. Plus, the audience consisted of diehard Monty Python fans who were accustomed to such humor. Some of those offensive jokes were very funny and the audience roared with laughter. I know you would like to hear a few of those jokes, but I dare not repeat them.

Whether or not John Cleese will die now that I have seen him, remains doubtful. I’m sure I’ll cry, “False advertising!” when goes on tour again. We shall see.