Monty Python comedian Eric Idle has cancelled his planned tour of Australia and New Zealand after doctors advised him to step back because of ill health
The 83-year-old had recently toured Britain while promoting his latest book, *Idle in Provence: A Brief History of Thyme*
Idle was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2022, but an unusually early discovery allowed surgeons to remove the disease
He kept the illness private for several years while undergoing regular checks
The decision comes amid continuing tensions within the Monty Python team over finances and management of the group’s work.