Very funny’ naked statue of Monty Python’s Terry Jones to be unveiled

A tribute to Terry Jones, the late actor and writer known for his work with Monty Python, will be revealed in his hometown this weekend. The statue, depicting Jones as the nude organist—a character he famously portrayed in Monty Python’s Flying Circus—was funded through a global campaign. Jones passed away in 2020 at age 77 due to a rare dementia diagnosis.

Sculptor’s Vision

Colwyn Bay-based artist Nick Elphick, who frequently appears on the BBC series Extraordinary Portraits, crafted the life-sized sculpture. The design process involved consultations with Jones’ family to ensure the likeness captured his essence. Elphick noted that the most difficult part was balancing the character’s larger-than-life persona with a subtle, family-pleasing smile. The statue features Jones in a flapping tie, wild hair, and a classic ‘organist’ stance, with the organ seamlessly blending into his writing desk.

“I’m a perfectionist so I’m never happy, but I know that I’ve put my heart and soul into it,” said Elphick. “I’ve done literally 15-hour days for nearly a year and a half now, so I’m hoping that people love him.”

Fellow Python’s Approval

His Monty Python co-stars, including Sir Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam, endorsed the project. Palin humorously remarked that Jones would find the tribute “very funny indeed,” recalling how the comedian often handled tasks like typing and coffee-making during their collaborations. “Terry was the faster typist, so he would do most of the typing. And come to think of it, he also made the coffee depending where we were working,” he added.

John Cleese and Eric Idle also supported the initiative, which saw donations from around the world. Celebrities such as Emma Thompson, Steve Coogan, and Suzy Eddie Izzard joined the effort, helping it reach its £120,000 goal within six months.

Legacy and Connection

Although Jones and his family moved to Surrey when he was a child, he retained strong ties to Colwyn Bay. He became a patron of Theatr Colwyn and contributed to its renovation in 2011. The statue, positioned above the beach, aims to engage the public in a playful way. Elphick predicted it would spark iconic photos, particularly highlighting Jones’ distinctive features.

“You will be completely and utterly interactive with him and I think it’s going to make some iconic photographs, especially with that big soft bum he’s got,” said Elphick.

Jones’ career extended beyond Monty Python, including co-directing The Holy Grail with Gilliam and writing the series Ripping Yarns with Palin, whom he met at Oxford University. His contributions to comedy and medieval history are celebrated in the sculpture’s design.