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

Title Release Date Character
Monty Python and the Holy Grail 1975-03-14 First Monk / Singing Minstrel / Page Crushed by the Rabbit / Peasant #4
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl 1982-06-25 Various Roles
The Rutles 2: Can’t Buy Me Lunch 2003-08-16 Ron Nasty (archive footage)
Magical Mystery Tour 1967-12-25 The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band
Remember the Secret Policeman’s Ball? 2004-12-09 Self
The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash 1978-03-22 Ron Nasty
Not the Messiah (He’s a Very Naughty Boy) 2010-03-25 Mexican / Mountie
The Adventures of the Son of Exploding Sausage 1969-01-01 Self
Vivian Stanshall: The Canyons of his Mind 2003-01-01 Self
The Seventh Python 2008-06-26 Self
Life of Brian 1979-08-17 A Weedy Samaritan
The Roots of Monty Python 2005-11-26 Himself
The Flying Alberts (Brucey Lacey edit) 1965-01-01
The Missionary 1982-11-02 Singer at Gin Palace
Erik the Viking 1989-09-01 Hy-Brasilian
Yellow Submarine Sandwich 1978-03-22 Ron Nasty
The Mysterious Tadpole 1986-09-14 Narrator (voice)
Jabberwocky 1977-03-28 2nd Herald
Monty Python & the Holy Grail Location Report 1974-12-19 Self
Inside Shabby Road: The Music of ‘The Rutles’ 2008-11-01 Self
Get Up and Go: The Making of ‘The Rutles’ 2008-11-01 Self
The Secret Policeman’s Other Ball 1982-03-01 Himself
The Admiral: Pub, Drums and Food 2018-01-29 Himself/Ron Nasty (Archival Footage)
The Flying Alberts 1963-01-01 Self
The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band: 40th Anniversary Celebration 2006-05-22 Self
Not The Messiah: The Road To Albert Hall 2010-06-08
Do Not Adjust Your Set 1967-12-26
Rutland Weekend Television 1975-05-12 Various Characters
Monty Python’s Flying Circus 1969-10-05
Saturday Night Live 1975-10-11 Ron Nasty (uncredited)
The Raggy Dolls 1986-04-03 Narrator
The Secret Policeman’s Ball 1976-04-01 Self
We Need Answers 2009-02-12 Self – Contestant
Saturday Night Live 1975-10-11 Self – Musical Guest
Away With Words 1998-09-15
The Innes Book of Records 1979-01-17 Himself/Nick Cabaret/Bob Nylon
Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer’s Cut) 2009-10-18 Self
Never Mind the Buzzcocks 1996-11-12