Michael Palin was spotted in public on May 6, stepping out in London to attend the world premiere of Ocean With David Attenborough. The 82-year-old Monty Python star looked radiant and cheerful in a double-breasted suit with a bowtie as he joined fellow guests at the Royal Festival Hall to celebrate his longtime friend, David Attenborough.
The event marked one of Palin’s few appearances since the passing of his beloved wife, Helen Gibbins, in 2023. Though he has occasionally been seen in public over the past year, he has largely remained away from the spotlight. His attendance at this premiere was to support Attenborough and a display of resilience in his period of grief.
Michael Palin makes rare appearance to support David Attenborough
The premiere of Ocean With David Attenborough drew a notable crowd. Scheduled to air in the U.K. on May 8, Attenborough’s 99th birthday, the documentary will be released on National Geographic on June 7 and then stream globally on Disney+ and Hulu. The event gathered notable figures, including Cara Delevingne, James Blunt, Felicity Jones, Meera Syal, Hilary, and Michael Whitehall.
Palin’s presence also brightened up the night. As he posed on the blue carpet, fans noticed his calm demeanor and bright smile. While he may no longer be a regular figure at entertainment industry-related events, his rare appearances continue to warm fans’ hearts.
Michael Palin: Life lately
Michael Palin, The Monty Python star, has earned admiration for both his humor and humanity throughout the decades. Alongside John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, and the late Graham Chapman and Terry Jones, Palin helped shape British comedy. Even though his travel documentarian work has received critical praise, his recent public outings have become increasingly rare.
After the death of his wife about two years ago, Palin withdrew from the public. The couple met as teenagers and spent nearly six decades together, their love story inspiring several people. Palin spoke fondly of their bond in public statements following her death, and fans have since expressed their support for the actor during this tough period.