Anthrax scare for Python Eric

THE Hollywood home of Monty Python star Eric Idle had to be evacuated after a letter thought to contain anthrax was opened by his staff.

The suspicious powder was posted from Thailand to his home in the Hollywood Hills and opened on Monday.

Police officers and hazardous materials responders wearing protective chemical suits were seen entering the property soon afterwards. Idle, 6, was not in the house at the time but two female members of staff were taken to hospital and later discharged.

The Los Angeles Fire Department said there was ‘no hazard’ and ‘no chemical found’ following their investigation.

It is not clear if the package was linked to the 40th anniversary re-release of the Pythons’ Life of Brian film on April 18.

The comedy caused intense controversy for apparently ridiculing Christianity.