Michael Palin has shared an honest confession about dying as he discussed assisted dying. The Monty Python legend, 83, has filmed a new travel show for Channel 5, which sees him travel to the Philippines, a Far Eastern archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, including some stunning beaches.
Travel Takes Its Toll
It is the latest in many travel shows for the BBC star, who has been jet-setting around the world on air for the last 50 years. Palin admitted to the Daily Mail that the constant travel takes its toll, saying: "The airports and plane journeys are the hardest thing. What's keeping me going? Part of it is to be seen on TV: I'm an entertainer, after all. But as I get older, it's more important than ever to keep doing something."
Life After Helen
After losing his beloved wife of 57 years, Helen, in 2023 to kidney failure, he admitted that he finds it harder to be at home, saying: "I must admit that time sometimes drags now. I drift a bit. I have to have some project on the go."
Speaking of Helen, who had been in great pain when she died, he said: "She didn't want to become an invalid, so she made the decision to stop dialysis," as he said the experience influenced his mindset on assisted dying. He confessed: "There are a lot of people who find life intolerable: given all the associated safeguards," adding: "I'm in favour."
No Plans to Slow Down
Continuing the topic of his age, Michael said he has no intention of slowing down, and hopes to continue on TV for many more years. He said: "Well, David Attenborough's still going and he's even older than me! I feel very lucky to be doing what I'm doing. I have a great family. I've met some fascinating people.
"I'm an optimist. You have to be open, you have to say, 'Tell me more!' rather than, 'That's enough, I don't want to hear that!'"
Michael Palin In The Philippines airs Monday, 9pm, on Channel 5.
