Neil Innes

Neil Innes was a British actor, comedian, and musician who is best known for his work with the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, the Rutles, and his contributions to Monty Python. He was also recognized for his humorous songs and performances that satirized popular music.

Personal and Family Life

Neil Innes was born on December 9, 1944, in Danbury, Essex, England. He had three sons with his wife, Yvonne Hilton, whom he married on March 5, 1966. Innes was raised in a military family and learned to play the piano at an early age, later picking up the guitar in his teens.

Career Highlights

Innes became well-known in the 1960s as a member of the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, gaining fame through their appearances on television and in the Beatles’ film “Magical Mystery Tour.” He became closely associated with Monty Python, writing songs and acting in their films, most notably “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” He was affectionately called “The Seventh Python” by Terry Gilliam for his significant contributions to the group’s work.

Death and Legacy

Neil Innes passed away on December 29, 2019, in Montcuq, France, from a heart attack. His music and performances left a lasting impression on comedy and music, influencing many artists and entertainers. He is remembered for his unique style and ability to blend humor with music.

Filmography

TitleRelease DateCharacter
Monty Python and the Holy Grail1975-03-14First Monk / Singing Minstrel / Page Crushed by the Rabbit / Peasant #4
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl1982-06-25Various Roles
The Rutles 2: Can’t Buy Me Lunch2003-08-16Ron Nasty (archive footage)
Magical Mystery Tour1967-12-25The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band
Remember the Secret Policeman’s Ball?2004-12-09Self
The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash1978-03-22Ron Nasty
Not the Messiah (He’s a Very Naughty Boy)2010-03-25Mexican / Mountie
The Adventures of the Son of Exploding Sausage1969-01-01Self
Vivian Stanshall: The Canyons of his Mind2003-01-01Self
The Seventh Python2008-06-26Self
Life of Brian1979-08-17A Weedy Samaritan
The Roots of Monty Python2005-11-26Himself
The Flying Alberts (Brucey Lacey edit)1965-01-01
The Missionary1982-11-02Singer at Gin Palace
Erik the Viking1989-09-01Hy-Brasilian
Yellow Submarine Sandwich1978-03-22Ron Nasty
The Mysterious Tadpole1986-09-14Narrator (voice)
Jabberwocky1977-03-282nd Herald
Monty Python & the Holy Grail Location Report1974-12-19Self
Inside Shabby Road: The Music of ‘The Rutles’2008-11-01Self
Get Up and Go: The Making of ‘The Rutles’2008-11-01Self
The Secret Policeman’s Other Ball1982-03-01Himself
The Admiral: Pub, Drums and Food2018-01-29Himself/Ron Nasty (Archival Footage)
The Flying Alberts1963-01-01Self
The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band: 40th Anniversary Celebration2006-05-22Self
Not The Messiah: The Road To Albert Hall2010-06-08
Do Not Adjust Your Set1967-12-26
Rutland Weekend Television1975-05-12Various Characters
Monty Python’s Flying Circus1969-10-05
Saturday Night Live1975-10-11Ron Nasty (uncredited)
The Raggy Dolls1986-04-03Narrator
The Secret Policeman’s Ball1976-04-01Self
We Need Answers2009-02-12Self – Contestant
Saturday Night Live1975-10-11Self – Musical Guest
Away With Words1998-09-15
The Innes Book of Records1979-01-17Himself/Nick Cabaret/Bob Nylon
Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer’s Cut)2009-10-18Self
Never Mind the Buzzcocks1996-11-12