Monty Python’s classic dead parrot sketch

Python was the best surreal comedy show on British TV.

In this 1969 gem, customer John Cleese argues with shopkeeper Michael Palin over whether a “Norwegian Blue” parrot was dead when sold.

Things get heated as Cleese pokes fun at descriptions of death used in British culture.

“This parrot is no more! He has ceased to be! ‘E’s expired and gone to meet ‘is maker! This is an ex-parrot.”

Cleese describes the sketch as “timeless” and the pair have performed it many times live on Python tours while trying to make each other laugh.

I was lucky enough to see it on their last visit to London’s O2 in 2014. Brilliant.