Monty Python (sometimes known as
The Pythons) were a
British surreal comedy group who created the
sketch comedy show
Monty Python's Flying Circus, that first aired on the
BBC on 5 October 1969. Forty-five episodes were made over four seasons. The Python phenomenon developed from the television series into something larger in scope and impact, spawning touring stage shows, films, numerous albums, several books, and a stage musical. The group's influence on comedy has been compared to
The Beatles' influence on music.