Intelligence Squared Archive – How I Found My Voice: Michael Palin
Jun 6, 2024
Join Michael Palin, renowned actor, writer, and comic genius from Monty Python, as he shares his journey of finding his voice. He recalls the impact of his father's stammer and its emotional repercussions on family life. From crafting iconic comedy with Monty Python to his love for travel documentaries, Palin reflects on the joys of storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of human connection in a divided world and calls for climate action, blending humor and vital social issues in a rich tapestry of experience.
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First Comedy Performance
- Michael Palin's first comedy performance was at Oxford University's Psychological Society.
- Despite the silent reception, someone called it "very interesting", a comment that has always stuck with him.
Milk Room Improvisations
- As a boy, Palin performed improvisations about current events, like the coronation, in a milk room.
- These early performances honed his comedic timing and cemented his desire to perform.
Humor as a Worldview
- Palin believes humor is a way of looking at the world.
- He observes and finds laughter in situations rather than dwelling on negativity.