Streaming giant snaps up back catalogue

Monty Python's back catalogue is coming to Netflix, with the streaming giant also planning to commission new work from the group.

The digital service has picked up the rights to movies including Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Monty Python’s Life of Brian as part of a package deal, set to air in the UK from April 15.

Also included is the group's reunion show, Monty Python Live (mostly): One Down, Five To Go, which saw the surviving members, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Eric Idle and Terry Gilliam perform live at London’s O2 in 2014, as well as the entire original series of Monty Python's Flying Circus.

The deal for full international rights also includes Monty Python’s Fliegender Zirkus, which initially aired on Germany’s ARD, box-set collection Monty Python’s Personal Best, Monty Python Conquers America, Monty Python’s Almost the Truth and The Meaning of Monty Python, Monty Python’s Best Bits (mostly).

Eric Idle’s 2012 film, What About Dick?, which featured Idle alongside Russell Brand, Billy Connolly, Tim Curry, Eddie Izzard, Jane Leeves, Jim Piddock, Tracy Ullman and Sophie Winkleman, has also been snapped up.

The news was revealed on the Monty Python website, with industry website Deadline reporting that Netflix is also seeking to commission new comedy from the group.

- by Jay Richardson

Published: 22 Mar 2018