Monty Python star Sir Michael Palin has cancelled his upcoming book tour after he fractured his ribs in what he joked was a “comedy fall with no audience there to see it”.
Sir Michael, 83, had been due to visit venues across the UK this month, including St George’s Hall in Bradford, to showcase his new travel book In The Philippines, but the tour – as well as “any other events over the next few months” – have been called off.
In an Instagram post on Tuesday, the Sheffield-born actor apologised to fans and explained the cancellation was down to a fall in his bathroom, which left him with three fractured ribs and a minor pelvic fracture.
He wrote: “My accident was quite unsensational, a slip in the family bathroom where I’ve walked for 58 years.
“I fell heavily on my left side resulting in three fractured ribs and a minor pelvic fracture.
“The recovery of bone fractures takes a long time, especially when you’re 83.”
Referencing a well-loved Monty Python sketch starring Sir Michael and John Cleese, the actor added: “It was a comedy fall with no audience there to see it. I shall stick to fish slapping dances from now on.
“Sincere apologies to everyone who has already put in a lot of work on the tour. I’d also like to say a huge thanks to the NHS for their incredible care.”
A statement said: “It is with regret, due to unforeseen circumstances that the UK tour of Michael Palin in the Philippines is being postponed.
“Ticketholders will be contacted by their original point of purchase with further details and rescheduled dates as soon as they are available.
Michael apologises to everyone who bought tickets and thanks you for your understanding and can’t wait to see you on the re-scheduled date.”