Monty Python at 50: The Self-Abasement Tapes is made up of excised sketches from the television show, presented for the first time by Python member Michael Palin. Television now is a lot swearier and shoutier than it was 50 years ago, but I bet it still wouldn't start a Python tribute with the sketch that opened this one: a report from the annual conference of the Fat Ignorant Bastards Party of the USA, whose leader has just become president. "The cult is certainly booming," Eric Idle said in classic old-style Panorama manner.

There followed a court sketch and a school sketch, both subjects dear to Python hearts, as well as the fine country parody song I'm So Worried, exquisitely performed by Terry Jones, with worries that ranged from the Middle East to Heathrow's baggage delivery system and the state of current TV. Palin's linking device, as if he were excavating the material from sewers beneath the Edgware Road while being ironic about that road, its shops and owners, was apt and ingenious.

Python at 50: Silly Talks And Holy Grails, review

A rich collage of chat show appearances, location shoots, guest slots and one-offs worked best when it caught the Pythons in serious mode.

Eric Idle: 'I liked it better when we annoyed people'

Eric Idle has said it is disappointing that Monty Python is now viewed as "rather cuddly and lovely" as opposed to upsetting people as it once did.

Why the Life of Brian was so controversial

Today is the 40th anniversary of the world premiere of the film Life of Brian, the Monty Python team's very irreverent take on religion which shocked many people when it was first released but is now accepted as a classic of British cinema.

How Monty Python saved my life (maybe)

Monty Python - punk before the Sex Pistols - remains the greatest television comedy of all time, writes Aidan Smith.

Creating a "comedy cabinet"

Ukraine has a comedian as their premier, so let's mix things up a bit at No10. "Jo Brand for Prime Minister!"

Monty Python's Life of Brian review

Despite its absurdity and button-pushing bad taste, this mock epic stands up four decades on as a stirring paean to tolerance.

Eric Idle's LA home evacuated following anthrax scare

A hazmat unit arrived at the scene following a call to police.

Why Monty Python will always look on the bright side

With the passing of Dame June Whitfield and the New Year's Honours bestowing a knighthood on Michael Palin, I found myself reflecting on the half-life of comedy.