Monty Python legend John Cleese left viewers completely baffled during a recent appearance on The One Show. Presenters Lauren Laverne and Roman Kemp welcomed the 86-year-old comedian to the sofa alongside Celebrity MasterChef presenter Grace Dent, Love Island champion Shakira Khan and vocalist Jay McGuiness.
Awkward exchange on the sofa
The atmosphere became rather uncomfortable when the hosts introduced their famous guests: "Welcome all," as they applauded each other, while John carried on clapping to the jokey response: "You can keep going John."
John responded: "I like this show... what's your name?" before he answered: "Roman." John continued: "I've never known anyone called Roman... Roman Polanski?" as the BBC presenter replied: "He's another famous Roman," reports the Express.
Viewers react to the tension
Cleese continued: "Yes, another famous Roman. And your friend, what's her name?" as he gestured towards his co-presenter Lauren, so she repeated her name. John shared his delight at being on the programme before he erupted into laughter.
The tense exchange left some viewers completely baffled as they insisted the comic was behaving very strangely. An X/Twitter user posted: "He was acting very odd."
Another commented: "Rushes to watch it now," while a third wrote: "That is what we call 'top trolling'." Someone else added: "They were obviously sh****ng themselves in case he said something offensive. The tension looked crazy."
Defence and explanation from fans
However, someone else came to John's defence: "It's just sarcasm. Have we forgotten that the British are sarcastic? Or, is that not allowed these days either?" while another joined in: "This is wonderful. He's doing a Barry Humphries and they haven't a clue. Bravo @JohnCleese."
Yet another fan explained: "This is just what John is like in interviews. He never makes it easy for the interviewer and it's hilarious."
John appeared on the programme to give viewers an exclusive look behind the scenes of Monty Python and the Holy Grail as he marks 50 years of the legendary film.
