Born in South Shields, County Durham, he is a multitalented entertainer best known as a member of the iconic British comedy group Monty Python. He attended Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he joined the Footlights Club. Renowned for his sharp wit and musical talent, he contributed significantly to Monty Python's Flying Circus and its films. Beyond Python, he created the Tony Award-winning musical "Spamalot" and worked on numerous projects as a writer, actor, and musician.