Monty Python’s Terry Jones Passes Away at 77

The world has lost a legend of comedy and entertainment today. Terry Jones, of Monty Python fame, has died. He was 77 years old (via The Hollywood Reporter). Jones was suffering from dementia, which was publicly revealed by his son Bill in September 2016, and Jones was unable to speak as a result. He passed on Tuesday, Jan. 21.

His family announced in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to have to announce the passing of beloved husband and father, Terry Jones. Terry passed away on the evening of 21 January 2020 at the age of 77 with his wife Anna Soderstrom by his side after a long, extremely brave but always good humored battle with a rare form of dementia, FTD. 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. 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.”

Jones was a founding member of the Monty Python comedy troupe. His work included co-directing and co-writing the classic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. He also directed Monty Python’s Life of Brian, where he co-starred as Mandy Cohen, the mother of Brian Cohen. He later directed the third Monty Python movie, The Meaning of Life.

Jones was long considered the heart of the Monty Python troupe. The actor, writer, director, historian, poet, and comedian was born in North Wales and studied English at Oxford University, where he met fellow Monty Python member Michael Palin. Eventually they would form the comedy troupe along with John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, and Graham Chapman. Their TV show, Monty Python’s FLying Circus ran on the BBC for four seasons between 1969 and 1974.

His other directing credits post The Meaning of Life include Erik the Viking, Personal Services, and The Wind in the Willows. As a writer, he authored many children’s books, The Saga of Erik the Viking, and the 1986 Jim Henson cult classic, Labyrinth.

Jones would eventually reunite with Monty Python troupe in 2014 for a live tour, Monty Python Live (Mostly). What was originally meant to be a one-time final stage show received such high demand, it received nine extra dates. Jones is survived by his wife Anna Soderstrom, their daughter Siri, and his two children from his first marriage.