Michael Palin, a Monty Python legend, starred in ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ as various characters, ‘A Fish Called Wanda’ as Ken Pile, and ‘The Death of Stalin’ as Vyacheslav Molotov. He also hosted renowned travel documentaries…
Films
- The Death of StalinVyacheslav Molotov2017
- Absolutely AnythingThe Chief Alien (voice)2015
- Arthur ChristmasChief Elf (voice)2011
- Fierce CreaturesAdrian ‘Bugsy’ Malone / Vince McCain1997
- The Wind in the WillowsThe Sun (voice)1996
- A Fish Called WandaKen Pile1988
- The MissionaryRev. Charles Fortescue1982
- Time BanditsVincent1981
- Monty Python’s Life of BrianVarious roles (Pontius Pilate, etc.)1979
- JabberwockyDennis Cooper1977
- Monty Python and the Holy GrailVarious roles (Sir Galahad, etc.)1975
- And Now for Something Completely DifferentVarious roles1971
TV shows
- Michael Palin: Into IraqPresenter2022
- Michael Palin in North KoreaPresenter2018
- Michael Palin’s BrazilPresenter2012
- Michael Palin’s New EuropePresenter2007
- Michael Palin: Around the World in 80 DaysPresenter1989
- Ripping YarnsVarious characters (co-writer, actor)1976
- Monty Python’s Flying CircusVarious characters1969
- The Frost ReportPerformer / writer1966
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About Michael Palin
Michael Palin is an English actor, comedian, writer, and television presenter, best known as a member of the Monty Python comedy group. Beyond Python, he has enjoyed a distinguished film career and become one of the world’s most beloved travel documentary presenters. His work spans absurdist comedy, dramatic roles, and award-winning travelogue series.
FAQs
Did Michael Palin win any major awards for his travel documentaries?
Yes. Michael Palin won a BAFTA for ‘Michael Palin: Around the World in 80 Days’ in 1989, and has received multiple BAFTA and RTS nominations for his subsequent travel series.
What was Michael Palin’s role in Monty Python’s Flying Circus?
He was a core member, performing as a writer and actor. His characters included the ‘It’s Man’, the Gumbys, and various upper-class twits. He also co-wrote many of the group’s most famous sketches.
Has Michael Palin acted in dramatic roles outside comedy?
Yes. He gave a highly praised dramatic performance in the 1994 film ‘The Death of Stalin’ as Vyacheslav Molotov, and also played straight roles in films like ‘Time Bandits’ and ‘The Missionary’.
Is Michael Palin still making travel documentaries?
Yes, as recently as 2022 he presented ‘Michael Palin: Into Iraq’ for Channel 5, continuing his long-running travel series even into his 80s.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026