Monty Python founding member Terry Jones died Tuesday, and fans (including famous ones) are taking to social media to remember the comedian, writer and director. Jones, whose family released a statement Wednesday, had been diagnosed with a rare form on dementia. He was 77.
Jones co-created the comedy series Monty Python's Flying Circus, which ran on UK television from 1969 to 1974. He co-directed the 1975 movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail and directed two other Monty Python films: 1979's Life of Brian and 1983's The Meaning of Life.
John Cleese, another one of Monty Python's six founding members, tweeted his thoughts on Jones' passing.
Just heard about Terry J
— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) January 22, 2020
It feels strange that a man of so many talents and such endless enthusiasm, should have faded so gently away...
Of his many achievements, for me the greatest gift he gave us all was his direction of 'Life of Brian'. Perfection
Two down, four to go
Cleese was referring to Graham Chapman, who died in 1989.
Reactions from other notable names swirled with sadness at the loss and amusement over Jones' signature absurdist humor.
36 years ago I met Terry Jones. I was meant to interview him. I asked for tea, so he opened a bottle of Chablis & got me drunk. He was funny, brilliant and honest. He was irrepressible and is seen here repressing the very young me. Rest in Peace, Terry. You were an inspiration. pic.twitter.com/fNBJZwOFcX
— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) January 22, 2020
A very fond farewell to Terry Jones: Not only 1/6 of the Pythons, Mr Creosote, Arthur Two Sheds Jackson, Dino Vercotti, Mandy Cohen, Prince Herbert, Cardinal Biggles & the Nude Organist, but also esteemed director of all time comedy classic; 'Life Of Brian'. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/PeBDlvGfsD
— edgarwright (@edgarwright) January 22, 2020
Farewell, Terry Jones. The great foot has come down to stamp on you. My god what pleasure you gave, what untrammelled joy and delight. What a wonderful talent, heart and mind
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 22, 2020
Terry Jones was the absolute best
— John Oliver (@iamjohnoliver) January 22, 2020
May the dear, great Terry Jones find eternal peace in the loving embrace of Jesus Christ. Or more likely of Brian.
— Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) January 22, 2020
Fans also cited one of Jones' best-known lines.
It doesn’t matter how many times I watch it, “he’s not the messiah, he’s a very naughty boy” makes me howl. What a movie. Goodbye Terry Jones.
— Laura Kate (@cakeylaura) January 22, 2020
Originally published Jan. 22, 7:47 a.m. PT.
Update, 9:58 a.m. PT: Adds additional tweets.