Monty Python Legend Talks Facing Death After Losing His Wife of 57 Years

Monty Python Legend Talks Facing Death After Losing His Wife of 57 Years originally appeared on Parade.

Sir Michael Palin is opening up about the future—and reflecting on the past.

During the July 30 episode of On the Couch with Marie Curie, the 82-year-old Monty Python star spoke candidly about preparing for death following the 2023 loss of his wife of 57 years, Helen Gibbins.

“My children know where to find what they need to find, should I die,” Palin said, explaining that he’s already made his will. “But in an odd way, the way they were able to deal with Helen’s loss, I think they… kind of know this is what happens, you know?”

The British comedy legend and Gibbins, who tied the knot in 1966, raised three kids—Thomas, 56, William, 54, and Rachel, 50—and reportedly have four grandchildren.

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“I’m 82 now, which is longer than any Palin male has lived, you know, for 200 years, something like that,” Palin continued. “But I’m reasonably fit, I keep fit and I’m working fortunately… doing some quite difficult stuff, filming and all that sort of stuff.”

Still, the Holy Grail and Life of Brian actor admits age is catching up with him.

“You feel tired at certain times,” he said. “And you are slightly unsteady as you get out of bed and you think, what’s happening? Well, you’re getting ready, you know, the old car’s getting a bit rusty.”

Palin—who was knighted by Prince William in the 2019 New Year Honours for his services to travel, culture, and geography—also revealed he had open-heart surgery in recent years, which he credits with saving his life.

This isn’t the first time the legendary comedian has spoken openly about death and grief. In a 2024 interview with The Times, Palin reflected on life without his sweetheart, revealing that he still lives in the home they shared and hasn’t changed much since her passing.

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“I carry on as though Helen is still here,” he said at the time. “Her clothes are still in the cupboards. I don’t want to change my life, because I feel she wouldn’t want that either. It’s still a nice house to come back to. I feel her presence here.”

Monty Python Legend Talks Facing Death After Losing His Wife of 57 Years first appeared on Parade on Jul 31, 2025

This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 31, 2025, where it first appeared.