Sad news for Monty Python fans. A spokesperson for Terry Jones has revealed that he’s been diagnosed with a rare form of dementia called primary progressive aphasia, which has affected his ability to speak to the point that he is no longer able to give interviews. Based on the descriptions I’ve read in various reports, it sounds like his communication abilities are only likely to get worse from here on out.
I’m very sad to hear this. I’ve always enjoyed Terry’s work, not only with Python, but also stuff like Ripping Yarns, and the various history documentaries he did over the years.
I’ve seen this reported by a number of sources, but I suppose CNN’s is as good as any to link to.
One of the most overlooked members, but by all accounts a very strong personality and the single greatest driving force of the Python’s as a functioning troop. And of course Michael Palin’s writing partner of decades. Great talent, like them all.
If you’ve never seen it, check out his Wind in the Willows.. He directed and played Mr. Toad. Really well. And the weasels and stoats are positively delightful.
I recall seeing in (I think) the “Making of…” documentary about the reunion a couple of years ago that Jones was worried about being involved because his memory was starting to go, so this is not a complete surprise. Fondest of very many fond memories is from his book about the Crusades, where describes an actual event : the heroic Crusader siege of a castle which was defended entirely by sheep. I struggled for breath from laughing so hard. Only Jones could have linked such a pure Python sensibility with an ancient long-forgotten event.
Here’s my favorite scene from the movie. (Although, rewatching it just now, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when I heard the line “He’s suffering from a dementia.”)
It’s important to remember that even if communication is impaired there is still a person inside with feelings, wants and desires; who can still laugh and love; and who is still to be cared for and valued. The facebook post makes it sound like his friends and family are still trying to give him as full a life as possible, and that’s a small but worthwhile positive.
