Michael Palin

Michael Palin

From Laugh Tracks Legends of Comedy with Randy and Steve by Randy Hodgins and Steve McLellan

May 26, 2026 · 4 min · Episode 310

About this episode

This episode explores the career and contributions of Michael Palin, highlighting his work with Monty Python and his successful post-Python career in travel shows and film.

Whether you want to sell a dead parrot to an unsuspecting customer, travel around the world with a wry view of life, or simply figure out why a fish is called Wanda -- Michael Palin is your man. The creator of many of Monty Python's most beloved sketches, Palin carved out a fine post-Python career as the host of numerous BBC travel shows, as well as a full resume of character roles such as that of Ken Pile, a stuttering gangster, in A Fish Called Wanda. What did the public think of Michael? How about four Bafta awards and an appointment as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Just don't ask too many questions -- you don't want him to think it's some sort of Spanish Inquisition! As always find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Michael Palin? Another Palin classic was this long running gag about some people you would never expect. https://youtu.be/psMMKgvpGfg?si=mkTPwDC9wMC5hUpu Michael was at the center of many classic Python bits, including this musical tribute to the men of the woods! https://youtu.be/B6mzobwTYyo?si=Riix_96cfDIrNZmS Michael had a huge post-Python career hosting a series of witty travel programs for the BBC. Not bad work if…

People in this episode

Hosts: Randy Hodgins, Steve McLellan

Topics covered

  • Monty Python
  • comedy
  • travel shows
  • character roles
  • British television

Keywords

  • Michael Palin
  • Monty Python
  • A Fish Called Wanda
  • BBC travel shows
  • comedy sketches

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC

Books & works: A Fish Called Wanda

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