Michael Palin

Michael Palin

Born:May 5, 1943

Place of Birth:Broomhill, Sheffield, England, UK

Known For:Acting

Biography

Michael Palin, born on May 5, 1943, in England, is a multi-talented individual known for his versatility in the entertainment industry. While many recognize him as a member of the legendary comedy group Monty Python, his contributions extend far beyond that. Alongside Terry Jones, Palin crafted comedic masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. Their collaborative work on various shows before Monty Python showcases their comedic genius and paved the way for their future success.

Palin's comedic prowess shines through in iconic Monty Python sketches such as "Argument Clinic," "Dead Parrot," "The Lumberjack Song," and "The Spanish Inquisition." His ability to bring humor to life with impeccable timing and wit has endeared him to audiences worldwide. Beyond Monty Python, Palin's creative collaborations continued with projects like co-writing Ripping Yarns and appearing in films directed by Terry Gilliam, showcasing his adaptability as a performer.

Notably, Palin's talent transcends comedy, as evidenced by his BAFTA Award-winning performance in "A Fish Called Wanda." His ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles underscores his versatility as an actor. In a testament to his impact on the comedy world, Palin was recognized as the 30th favorite comedian in a 2005 poll, highlighting his enduring influence on the industry.

Following his time with Monty Python, Palin embarked on a new adventure as a travel writer and documentarian. His wanderlust led him to explore diverse landscapes, from the North and South Poles to the Sahara desert and the Himalayas. Through his travel documentaries, Palin invites viewers to join him on captivating journeys across the globe, showcasing his passion for exploration and storytelling.

In recognition of his contributions to television, Palin was honored as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2000. This prestigious accolade reflects his dedication to the craft and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of humor and insight. Palin's work continues to inspire and entertain, leaving a lasting legacy in both the world of comedy and travel journalism.

With a career spanning decades and encompassing a wide range of artistic endeavors, Michael Palin remains a beloved figure in entertainment. His ability to bring laughter to millions and spark a sense of wanderlust in viewers is a testament to his enduring talent and creativity. Whether portraying quirky characters on screen or traversing remote corners of the world, Palin's charm and charisma captivate audiences, solidifying his status as a true icon in the realm of entertainment.

Images

Michael Palin
Michael Palin
Michael Palin
Michael Palin

Filmography

Acting

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

First Swallow-Savvy Guard / Dennis / Peasant 2 / Right Head / Sir Galahad the Pure / Narrator / King of Swamp Castle / Brother Maynard's Brother / Leader of The Knights Who Say NI!

1975

King Arthur, accompanied by his squire, recruits his Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Bedevere the Wise, Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Robin the Not-Quite-So-Brave-As-Sir-Lancelot and Sir Galahad the Pure. On the way, Arthur battles the Black Knight who, despite having had all his limbs chopped off, insists he can still fight. They reach Camelot, but Arthur decides not to enter, as "it is a silly place".
Brazil

Brazil

Jack Lint

1985

Low-level bureaucrat Sam Lowry escapes the monotony of his day-to-day life through a recurring daydream of himself as a virtuous hero saving a beautiful damsel. Investigating a case that led to the wrongful arrest and eventual death of an innocent man instead of wanted terrorist Harry Tuttle, he meets the woman from his daydream, and in trying to help her gets caught in a web of mistaken identities, mindless bureaucracy and lies.
Life of Brian

Life of Brian

Wise Man #3 / Mr. Big Nose / Francis / Mrs. A / Ex-Leper / Announcer / Ben / Pontius Pilate / Boring Prophet / Eddie / Shoe Follower / Nisus Wettus

1979

Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he's not dodging his followers or being scolded by his shrill mother, the hapless Brian has to contend with the pompous Pontius Pilate and acronym-obsessed members of a separatist movement. Rife with Monty Python's signature absurdity, the tale finds Brian's life paralleling Biblical lore, albeit with many more laughs.
The Death of Stalin

The Death of Stalin

Vyacheslav Molotov

2017

When dictator Joseph Stalin dies, his parasitic cronies square off in a frantic power struggle to become the next Soviet leader. As they bumble, brawl and back-stab their way to the top, the question remains — just who is running the government?
Absolutely Anything

Absolutely Anything

Kindly Alien (voice)

2015

Eccentric aliens give a man the power to do anything he wants to determine if Earth is worth saving.
A Fish Called Wanda

A Fish Called Wanda

Ken Pile

1988

While a diamond advocate attempts to steal a collection of diamonds, troubles arise when he realises he’s not the only one after the collection.
Time Bandits

Time Bandits

Vincent

1981

Young history buff Kevin can scarcely believe it when six dwarfs emerge from his closet one night. Former employees of the Supreme Being, they've purloined a map charting all of the holes in the fabric of time and are using it to steal treasures from different historical eras. Taking Kevin with them, they variously drop in on Napoleon, Robin Hood and King Agamemnon before the Supreme Being catches up with them.
The Witches

The Witches

Witch at Meeting (uncredited)

1990

A young boy named Luke and his grandmother go on vacation only to discover their hotel is hosting an international witch convention, where the Grand High Witch is unveiling her master plan to turn all children into mice. Will Luke fall victim to the witches' plot before he can stop them?
Arthur Christmas

Arthur Christmas

Ernie Clicker (voice)

2011

For hundreds of years, the Claus family has delegated the title "Santa" to a chosen few of its members, which can be passed down upon retirement. Each Christmas, Santa and his vast army of highly trained elves produce gifts and distribute them around the world in a one-night high-tech operation. However, when one of 600 million children to receive a gift from Santa on Christmas Eve is missed, it is deemed ‘acceptable’ to all but one—Arthur Claus, the current Santa’s misfit son deemed ineligible for the title, who executes an unauthorised rookie mission to get the last present halfway around the globe before dawn on Christmas morning.
Monty Python's The Meaning of Life

Monty Python's The Meaning of Life

Various Roles

1983

Life's questions are 'answered' in a series of outrageous vignettes, beginning with a staid London insurance company which transforms before our eyes into a pirate ship. Then there's the National Health doctors who try to claim a healthy liver from a still-living donor. The world's most voracious glutton brings the art of vomiting to new heights before his spectacular demise.
And Now for Something Completely Different

And Now for Something Completely Different

Gumby / Man with tape recorder / Phrasebook Author / Arthur Pewtey / Second self - defence student / Second Tenant / Lost His Wallet / Shrill Petrol Announcer / Milkman / Ernest Scribbler / Pet shop employee / Lumberjack / Headwaiter Gilberto / Herbert Anchovy / Blackmail Presenter / Gervais Brookhamster / Town Guild Lady

1971

A collection of Monty Python's Flying Circus skits from the first two seasons of their British TV series.
Fierce Creatures

Fierce Creatures

Adrian 'Bugsy' Malone

1997

Ex-policeman Rollo Lee is sent to run Marwood Zoo, the newly acquired business of a New Zealand tycoon. In order to meet high profit targets and keep the zoo open, Rollo enforces a new 'fierce creatures' policy, whereby only the most impressive and dangerous animals are allowed to remain in the zoo. However, the keepers are less enthusiastic about complying with these demands.
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl

Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl

Various Roles

1982

Monty Python perform many of their greatest sketches at the Hollywood Bowl, including several from pre-Python days.
Monty Python Live (Mostly)

Monty Python Live (Mostly)

Self, others

2014

Celebrate the last night of the Pythons on the big screen! - With John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.

Production

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Writer

1975

King Arthur, accompanied by his squire, recruits his Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Bedevere the Wise, Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Robin the Not-Quite-So-Brave-As-Sir-Lancelot and Sir Galahad the Pure. On the way, Arthur battles the Black Knight who, despite having had all his limbs chopped off, insists he can still fight. They reach Camelot, but Arthur decides not to enter, as "it is a silly place".
Life of Brian

Life of Brian

Screenplay

1979

Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he's not dodging his followers or being scolded by his shrill mother, the hapless Brian has to contend with the pompous Pontius Pilate and acronym-obsessed members of a separatist movement. Rife with Monty Python's signature absurdity, the tale finds Brian's life paralleling Biblical lore, albeit with many more laughs.
Time Bandits

Time Bandits

Writer

1981

Young history buff Kevin can scarcely believe it when six dwarfs emerge from his closet one night. Former employees of the Supreme Being, they've purloined a map charting all of the holes in the fabric of time and are using it to steal treasures from different historical eras. Taking Kevin with them, they variously drop in on Napoleon, Robin Hood and King Agamemnon before the Supreme Being catches up with them.
Monty Python's The Meaning of Life

Monty Python's The Meaning of Life

Screenplay

1983

Life's questions are 'answered' in a series of outrageous vignettes, beginning with a staid London insurance company which transforms before our eyes into a pirate ship. Then there's the National Health doctors who try to claim a healthy liver from a still-living donor. The world's most voracious glutton brings the art of vomiting to new heights before his spectacular demise.
And Now for Something Completely Different

And Now for Something Completely Different

Screenplay

1971

A collection of Monty Python's Flying Circus skits from the first two seasons of their British TV series.
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl

Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl

Writer

1982

Monty Python perform many of their greatest sketches at the Hollywood Bowl, including several from pre-Python days.
Monty Python Live (Mostly)

Monty Python Live (Mostly)

Writer

2014

Celebrate the last night of the Pythons on the big screen! - With John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.