The One Song Eric Idle From ‘Monty Python’ Wrote With Beatles’ George Harrison

George Harrison was a big fan of Monty Python — so much so that he funded the production of Monty Python’s Life of Brian when other studios turned their backs on the franchise. He rubbed shoulders with members of the comedy troupe, particularly Eric Idle, who would co-write a song with him in the mid-70s.

Eric noted in his memoir Always Look on the Bright Side of Life: A Sortabiography that his musical collaboration with George was in exchange for a cameo appearance. George appeared in a Christmas special episode of Eric’s sketch comedy series, Rutland Weekend Television.

What song did Eric Idle and George Harrison collaborate on together?

Well we wrote The Pirate Song, he was in The Rutles and he Funded The Life of Brian. I also shot Crackerbox Palace & True Love videos for him. Will that do? https://t.co/SDNI9QbfeR

— Eric Idle (@EricIdle) January 28, 2025

A fan on X asked Eric if he ever wanted to do a music project with George Harrison, and the 81-year-old answered that he has, in fact, directed two music videos, one being 1977’s “Crackerjack Palace” and the other “True Love,” for the Beatle bandmate.

He added that they co-wrote “The Pirate Song,” to the surprise of some. Aside from these, Eric did not add that he did promos for his George’s Extra Texture album and was the person behind the Python “pepperpot” voiceover in the “This Song” track.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Eric Idle says George Harrison helped him overcome depression

Eric credits George for saving his life and helping him deal with depression back then. George’s cameo in his sketch on rural TV featured him as a pirate, and his widow Olivia Harrison says it was the bravest thing her late husband ever did.

Fans of both icons were glad to know that the friendship between Eric and George translated into joint creative pursuits and shared their thoughts in Eric’s comments section. “Both those songs and videos are excellent,” someone gushed, while another added that Eric continues to exceed his expectations. “I don’t think this bloke did research on you and George’s partnership. Thanks for catching him up,” a supporter quipped.

https://youtu.be/s3CosIid63U?si=mXVO2IqbXw2MnpH8