Graham Chapman's funeral

This is John's Cleese's speech at Grahan Chapman's funeral.

[@NRKYOrtha1476]

"Right, Stop that. This is all getting rather silly"

[@lebbo88]

Get on with it. Get on with it!

[@aigeh1326]

Chapman's Ghost: Right! Stop that! Stop that... This is getting silly, John. I don't want you to swear on my funeral, That's Disrespectful to a Deceased Man...

[@MCO18]

Right. Roll the cartoon!

[@1974dormouse]

And now, for something completely different

[@lyncohn9747]

actually it was chapman's specific request that cleese say 'fuck' at his funeral. and chapman's own final words were 'sorry for saying fuck.'

[@qwertman1414]

Eric Idle said singing always look on the bright side of life at Graham's memorial was the hardest thing he's ever done.

[@Zebrableistift]

thats how a funeral should be. Not an event that makes people even sadder than they are anyway

[@benwillems8584]

that's why I want to be torched with only direct family, and the rest to be in a fun location with good music and snacks

[@maxbowen6482]

It wasn’t a funeral

[@Peter_1986]

@@maxbowen6482 Maybe not, but a memorial service is a very similar type of event.

[@ultraszgb]

Now this is how you say good bye to an old friend.. just amazing

[@josephconciatori9824]

I could not agree with you more - especially if that old friend was a true comedic genius. Graham is sorely missed.

[@lyncohn9747]

This was NOT Chapman's funeral. It was a televised memorial service held two weeks after his funeral. His actual funeral was private and attended only by family - the other Python members, although invited, stayed away so that it wouldn't become a media circus.

[@jonafumin9890]

Wow thanks buddy! That was definitely needed

[@tkalle1299]

A flying media circus perhaps?

[@jinzhanghsu4253]

@@tkalle1299 underrated 😂

[@ronin667]

"On second thought, let's not go to Graham's funeral, it'd become a silly place."

[@Fae-Fey]

@@ronin667 "...tis but a silly place"

[@Kaaxe]

no crowd is tough enough for cleese

[@MCO18]

You can tell that Eric Idle is trying to hold back tears.

[@Polymershik]

Look at Cleese eyes while he is singing, his eyes are sparkling because of tears!

[@Jonger81]

Totally. They all did their best but were hurting inside.

[@КимберлиСуратос]

Wow, even his funeral looks like a Monty Python film

[@SibylVerchCymru]

Well it would

[@OhWellBananas]

Aw, Eric...He was quivering when he first started singing. I can't even imagine. His mum asked him to sing Always Look on the Bright Side of Life when she was dying too. He is glued to that song for life... And Cleesey...is just amazing.

[@bandstem]

2:30. Yes, that's Douglas Adams singing in the background.

[@TheCrazystupidpeople]

I want my greatest friend to say at my funeral during a speech "good riddance to him the freeloading bastard I hope he fries!"

[@chettee]

And I want to have friends.

[@thehumanfly5790]

+PlayboyX63 get out

[@LemonRush7777]

Amazing funeral, and a true celebration of his life.

[@Eisenbison]

His fellow Python members weren't just co-workers or associates. They were honest friends who knew the man like a brother and were able to celebrate his life and achievements to the fullest ability.

[@Markus9705]

Remember: Always look on the bright side of life

[@bushbasher85]

I had heard somewhere that Eric Idle said singing that song for Graham was the hardest thing he's ever had to do....He did it brillantly.

[@MontyBoosh]

If anything, this is more tearjerking than a more serious ceremony would have been. He died as he lived.

[@missm8067]

This is true friendship right here.

[@dannysangree6304]

Thats being a great person. Everyone was sad so he did his best to make Everyone feel better even though it was killing him.

[@henryreza8291]

LMFAO 3:53. Eric Idle is a comedic genius. That made my day. Always look on the bright side of life

[@3daysago266]

Is anyone else whistling, or is it just me?

[@ElvarMasson]

I´m whistling (o:þ

[@harryrooney9424]

3DaysAgo I can't whistle

[@drops2cents260]

@3DaysAgo Well, it's November 2020, I'm currently watching this video for the umpteenth time, and I still enjoy to not only being able to whistle the tune but to sing along in my fevourite three voices: 1) shamelessly false at an almost criminal level - as I used to do in my salad days when I was a member of the Army (a.k.a. the Armed, Raucous & Misguided Yokels) as well as later on in some more..well, _specialised_ units, 2) horribly loud - at least according to some pesky neighbours pounding at me door at 2000 because they'd like to enjoy some sleep instead of duly appreciating the flawed efforts of a man of culture - although one of my neighbours suggested that if I'd bring my bong and my Life of Brian-DVD, he'd chip in a few cases of brew, his 7.1 home cinema system and some interesting "tobacco alternatives" to smoke, so I guess I'll take that offer. 3) and with the enthusiasm any salty old CSM would muster when having to whip up his soldiers for a desperate last stand which will not only be fondly remembered, but officially celebrated for centuries. TLDR; I'm not only whistling, but singing as well (or doing something which may be considered as "singing" if one blatantly ignores any common standards in musicology). And if anybody might have a problem with that: well, that's your problem, but not mine).

[@randomguy4359]

"i mean what have you got to lose you know you come from nothing you go back to nothing what have you lost? nothing"

[@nothingposted9056]

People get kinda awkward when you quote that in a funeral, though. Personal experience.

[@lanziqi5168]

the ultimate state of sadness is to fill it up with joy.

[@Tolstoievsky]

didn't expect to get teary-eyed watching this

[@UATU.]

There can’t be a much greater tribute than for people to laugh lovingly at your funeral.

[@Verihevi]

Here we see how the Pythons are not only great comedians but also kind-hearted and caring persons -- in their very own special way. They actually turned the sermon into a happy farewell. I personally think all funerals and such should be held like this one.

[@Tjellevejrup]

This is quite easily one of the most beautiful moments in comedic history..

[@chrisduck2058]

Happy 72nd birthday to a very funny man. You are missed, Mr. Chapman.

[@aigeh1326]

RIP Graham Chapman MD. Giving laughter and Joy since 1969...

[@drops2cents260]

As some people in the comments here pointed out Eric Idle being tearful and smiling: i think the best way of mourning someone is: crying and smiling at the same time, i.e.: Crying out of sadness because somebody close to you passed on, while smiling because that person was there in the first place.

[@renerpho]

He said it best in that song: Some things in life are bad, that can really make you mad, other things just make you swear and curse. When you're chewin' on life's gristle, don't grumble, give a whistle and this'll make things turn out for the -worse- best.

[@RedStickInc]

Rest in spam

[@chylimzbydzi]

Good one, mate;)

[@shirtymop6463]

Spam Spam Spam Spam Spam Spam Spam Spam Lovely Spam Wonderful Spam!

[@Mercipourlevenin18]

Wow, I haven't cried this much in a long time!! It was so sad to see them all talk about Graham but it was also brilliant, they did a bang on job celebrating his life. I loved how no matter the sadness the Pythons can always add a good laugh and make it just right. RIP Graham, his brilliance, wit, and comic genius will always be adored.

[@DesertFox101]

This entire thing is beautiful. I've seen this video so many times, but when Idle starts singing, I still tear up. What a beautiful group of people.

[@jimables]

"Always Look on the Bright Side of Life". Oh, that we could all be as silly as Monty Python..

[@augustvallee6863]

I'd like to have John Cleese at my own funeral. As well as I've been trying to make life comfortable for myself and significant others, as happy I'm expecting to be at the end of it. The struggle is over. No fuss, no flowers, just a lot of joy!!!

[@strongbadia7]

Cried watching it? Kids, I cried when I *heard* that they'd sung this at his funeral.

[@juliancoleman848]

Just beautiful thanks uploader

[@StealthDoctor]

He's not dead He's a very naughty boy!

[@JinnTolser]

That was brilliant. Perfectly delivered mix of lightheartedness, mock insult, and serious tribute from John Cleese, and incredibly apropos song led by Eric Idle. I cannot imagine a more perfect sendoff.

[@Tutchmahbutte]

Boy I can't help but tear up when they show Palin at 0:18. His expression is so blank yet so telling.

[@RoadFruitFilms]

This looks like the absolute best memorial service ever

[@keithmoon3190]

What makes this a bittersweet funeral is that they are literally having one more laugh with Chapman most especially with the swearing in John Cleese's speech and the fact they are celebrating his life with positivity which is something not usually present in other funerals.

[@Suprahampton]

I love the look on people's faces when Cleese says "Good riddence the free loading bastard, I hope he fries" Shock on most but on the rest of the Python gang it's simple laughter. Graham was always for shock & managed it even in death. Pure class

[@muttbone01]

In 1989, when this funeral happened, I was barely a teenager an knew nothing of Monty Python. Yet as a huge fan later, an now at age 50, I look back at this eulogy an feel a profound, deep sadness. That was the power an influence of Monty Python an all the crew. They have, an always will, transcend time. THAT is what makes them icons.

[@whette_fahrtz]

I want my funeral to be like this. Remember funeral begins with FUN!

[@ThelouwseFD]

Je ris et je pleure en même temps, quels grands hommes !

[@RememberRox]

I'm pretty sure this is not on his funeral since the cast decided to not attend it to avoid a media frenzy. I think this is from the private memorial service they held in his honor. EDIT: actually after watching the video it does say it's from the memorial service lol. You should change the title.

[@elescobars]

I want this to be my funeral.

[@kevaus]

lovely,just fantastic,Graham would have loved it,what a way to be sent off !!!

[@mrspeel7]

"...before he'd achieved many of the things of which he was capable, and before he'd had enough fun." Inspiring words: I think Mr. Cleese captured the essence of a certain essential balance one needs, to be happy in life. I must remember that phrase on a daily basis, to help make the most out of my own life. And, I think Mr. Chapman would have been thrilled by the laughter, love and affection expressed at his funeral!

[@Sue71]

You can tell that Eric's trying his hardest to keep it together when he's singing and is about to lose it at the end. Also, when John Cleese was speaking, one of the other Pythons looked pretty sad.

[@gunttoo]

My grandfather passed today .. I needed this...

[@TubeofDestiny]

this is the best funeral speech one could ever dream of, the song at the end was really the pinnacle :']

[@Veggieman87]

"He would never forgive me if I didn't..." Only Cleese could deliver that eulogy... The boys could never be the same without Chapman. May Graham Chapman be laughing at us all up there in heaven.

[@Alpvagabund]

Monty Python is without a doubt the best comedy group of all time. On their own they are all hilarious, but together they are absolutely phenomenal. That’s precisely one of the reasons why it’s so distinctly sad to see any of them go.😔😔😔

[@Erniethecatisawesom]

He still lives in the hearts of every Monty Python fan out there!

[@JordanSmith-yi3ji]

It always sucks to see great men and women die young. All that potential, all those possibilities, gone. That is where others come in and pick up the pieces, and perhaps try to carry on their legacy. R.I.P Graham Chapman, R.I.P Monty Oum, R.I.P Freddie Mercury.

[@OmarAbufaress]

+Jordan Smith at least monty wont run out of milk and cookies

[@svenjat129]

John Lennon

[@lizzielizzie]

We played "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" at my father's wake...he was a huge Python fan. I hope my friends are equally able to have a good laugh at my expense/memory when I join the choir invisible.

[@davidhammond1521]

I had never seen this before . Chapman was one of the first celebrities to come out as gay however his demise was because of Tonsil and Spinal cancer he was great ,he was funny when he was ashes even. I love this song but my favorite is the Universe Song from the Meaning of Life which is my favorite Python film ta ta

[@kieranjones99]

One thing you can say about a speech like this, as well, is that it must be such a comfort to the family of Graham Chapman that they know that he was able to make people laugh and have such great friends that are able to do the same in his name. It also serves as a reminder of his memories that are able to distract from how much they must have been missing him at that point. I remember at my Dad's funeral it was a welcome relief when his boss was able to give humerous anecdotes at his eulogy.

[@larrylentini5688]

This has to be one of the saddest funerals I've ever seen.

[@robertcombs55]

I have told my family I want this song sung at MY funeral...God Bless you ALL the Pythons!!

[@pliosaurus]

I can't believe Eric didn't know his own lyrics by heart.

[@rjrichme]

this eulogy was about Graham, so personal, so full of love.

[@Gedagnors]

"Key change"

[@cainster]

It's amazing to watch this footage. You can tell that John is hurting and trying to hold back the tears, and doing well to hide it with humor. This is a man who just can't fail no matter what he does. Graham himself would send the foot down from top screen for this wonderfully written and beautifully done eulogy.

[@MarcoZamora]

I would love it if my friends remembered me in this manner. It was a funny, touching tribute. I've always thought that humour, grief and love go hand in hand, if not, why are all the best jokes told at the funerals of the most loved people?

[@mikekearn]

Never fails to bring to tears to my eyes, even as it makes me laugh. Truly this how every funeral should be; acknowledge the sadness of losing a person, but also remembering them for what they were in life.

[@taesu8]

I can feel Eric holding back his tear.

[@demon27dan]

Yes, as the previous poster said, it's Jonathan Miller at 2.45, sitting with Alan Bennett.

[@segma7082]

what an incredible sendoff for a great gent, rip you old sod

[@Prometheusmfd]

Always Look on the Bright Side of Life is probably the greatest song ever to play at a funeral. You can tell they really cared about Chapman.

[@purekaosmaster]

its a great memorium to a funny guy where theres laughter lining the sadness in the event rip graham chapman

[@thecrimsonfloyd]

It takes a real humorist to laugh on a funeral for a friend,and for that I tip my hat to John and Eric.

[@jrkchannel37]

how in hell can you downvote this. yes its sad he is gone, but he got a great funeral goddamn it!

[@sunshine28x]

As you can see through a lot of comments, monty phytons are immortal, nowadays still popular. The funeral had to be in a Phyton-style, he would have loved that too. It was a great funeral for a great man in the world of comedy, and it´s almost better to appreciate what a person did in his life, then to be too sad about a natural thing. This funeral was a great, bittersweet moment of honour for brian. Rest in Peace, Graham!

[@YoBlivious]

I want this to be my funeral when I'm gone.

[@user-fr8nj3di9k]

To imagine I was born two years later. Wow. I watch everything from them. It makes me sad that one of the true comedic geniuses of this world died before I was even born

[@mcgannahanskyjellyfetti1663]

~RIP Graham Chapman 1941-1989~

[@BLew657]

Big fan of Month python but I'd never seen this before. I'm A 58 year old man laughing and crying at the same time, tears streaming down my face watching a funeral from 32 years ago. only Monty Python could do that. 😭🤣😭🤣 RIP Graham. Thanks for the joy and laughter you brought to me and millions of people ❤

[@ShikataGaNai100]

"What's all this then?" - Graham Chapman

[@imwatchinstuff]

God just couldn't go on another day without Chapman up there.

[@lestock]

Stop,stop stop. This funeral is silly!

[@MoveOverCasanova]

this the bloody best clip on you tube!! absolutely sensational document, i only read about this funeral, but i didn´t expect to see it!

[@Minecraftinite]

Oh man I was good until he mentioned the parrot sketch :(

[@SigniousCA]

You mean 10 seconds in?

[@TheWorldsMoralMiddleFinger]

Cster: Are you feeling better now, mr parrot? 😜

[@jesse10dell]

Graham Chapman was a fantastic comedian and deserved such a lovely memorial speech:-) monty python are the best! Graham ,you were great

[@Pitchguest]

2:30 Look, it's Douglas Adams!

[@andrewmcnamara6305]

According to TV Tropes this would be an example of "The "Fun" in Funeral."

[@GettinThoseHeadshots]

You could tell he hated him but loved him at the same time.

[@Leon_der_Luftige]

+rpavic3 Because he was a terrible coworker.

[@Leon_der_Luftige]

+rpavic3 Check out the video where the Pythons talk about him. He never was on time, often drunk..... And as a consequence of his heavy alcoholism ("4 pints a day" -Chapman, in an interview) he couldn't do anything properly.

[@lyncohn9747]

he quit drinking in 1977 just before they started filming for life of brian, so cleese probably admired him for being able to do that.

[@Omne118]

I can only hope that I live the life where I can have someone say this kind of thing at my funeral. I can't imagine a more respectful way for them to give him one last salute.

[@theinfamoushobbitch]

oh hey sue vertue was the production manager

[@SirSamurbatsu]

John Cleese is the only person who could get hysterics and clapping. BUT Chapman will always remain one of the greatest british comedy writers and performers to live. He deserved the service he recieved. RIP Chapman. God bless... SH09

[@MauriceFitzGeraldsoraxtm]

This is the funniest most heartbreaking thing i have ever seen

[@artgonewrong]

I was just watching Life Of Brian for the umpteenth time. Graham was terrific!

[@GFTAidan]

John Cleese does look like somebody who would frequent funeral and memorial services. He has a very grim looking face, after all.

[@lazydogster]

Outstanding. They are andwere absolute mold breakers and many a time my side split watch the Pythons. Graham Chapman was a true star of comeday and acting.

[@Uno-mv7wz]

Is that Tom Baker in there?

[@WillEatAtTiffanys]

I was just thinking the same thing!

[@jfayiii]

+Tohtori Kuka thanks for that notice; it is indeed! been watching this for years, never noticed!

[@halwakka504]

For years? How many times have you paused it?

[@MiIIenia]

Legendary eulogy for a legendary man. I never heard of him when he died and yet still I miss him greatly, yet am gladdened that he left behind an excellent body of work. Even if he left far too early he accomplished far more than most have in a full lifetime.

[@u.v.s.5583]

He is an ex-Chapman.

[@tuschman168]

I just finished watching Life of Brian again and I always like to do something related after a movie so I watch this on youtube. Now I'm crying. 90 minutes of laughter and now I'm crying and laughing at the same time. There's a bunch of great entertainers.

[@olivermorin3303]

Well. that was fun. Who's for Chinese?

[@iv3shf]

The best fareweel we all can have, Eric is choking the tears down when he sings. Even after so many years he is still remembered. Bye graham.

[@georgealvarez1084]

What a wonderful funny man Graham Chapman was.I miss him very much.

[@Nolimit4show]

The SONG! @ 2:25 "Always look on the BRIIIGHT SIDE of LIFE!" **Whistles** I love Holy Grail and Life of Brian, Monty Phython was always on point.