**Monty Python Star Eric Idle Hospitalised Twice in Three Days Amid Health Fears**
British comedy legend Eric Idle, best known for his work with the iconic Monty Python group, has been admitted to hospital for the second time in just three days. The 82-year-old actor and writer revealed on social media that he is battling what he suspects to be gastroenteritis, a painful inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is commonly triggered by viral or bacterial infections.
Idle took to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday to express his gratitude towards the medical professionals at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles, where he is receiving care. In his post, he wrote, “So I’d like to thank all the doctors, nurses and staff in the Cedars GI ward for their kindness and help to me today. The second time in three days. I think I’m suffering from Gastroenteritis. I love you people.”
Despite the seriousness of his condition, Idle’s trademark wit was evident in his message. Ever the comedian, he found a moment to share his appreciation for the support he’s received. This public acknowledgement not only highlights his sense of humour, but also his gratitude in the face of health challenges.
This is not the first health scare for Idle, who in recent years has openly discussed his battle with pancreatic cancer. Diagnosed in 2019, he underwent life-saving surgery and has since been vocal about his relief that the illness was detected early. Reflecting on his experience, Idle has previously commented, “I shouldn’t be alive. I’m a lucky b****** and I enjoy every moment,” demonstrating both humility and a deep appreciation for life after cancer.
Interestingly, Idle’s history with cancer carries a touch of the surreal humour for which he is known. In an interview with The Times, he recalled a conversation with his doctor during the writing of ‘Death: The Musical’, in which he asked which cancer would be most fittingly dramatic for a character’s demise. The response was “Pancreatic cancer, it can finish people off in three weeks.” Years later, when presented with a suspicious blood test result, Idle found himself faced with the same diagnosis he’d once only imagined for fiction. Remarkably, he initially thought it was a joke.
“I burst out laughing because I thought he must be joking,” Idle said at the time, revealing both his shock and continued ability to find levity even in life’s gravest moments. His journey since then has been marked by resilience and a positive outlook, traits that have inspired his many fans across the world.
Idle first rose to prominence in the late 1960s as a founding member of Monty Python. Alongside comedy greats like John Cleese and Michael Palin, he redefined British comedy with absurd sketches and feature films such as ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ and ‘Life of Brian.’ Despite battling significant health hurdles, Idle has continued to work, write, and engage with fans.
As yet, there has been no official update on Idle’s recovery or whether he will require further treatment. For now, both the entertainment community and his followers around the globe remain hopeful for good news. His recent hospitalisation is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, even for those who seem larger than it.
Eric Idle’s continued openness about his health challenges, coupled with his enduring sense of humour, underscores the resilience that has made him an icon. The comedy world, and indeed his audiences everywhere, are wishing him a swift return to good health.