Collection of letters from the estate and personal collection of Graham Chapman. Chapman was a founding member of Monty Python; played the title role in the movie Monty Python's Life of Brian as well as King Arthur in Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975); he died at the age of 48 in 1989 from complications of a stroke as well as throat and spinal cancer. Lot of six letters to and from Chapman includes: a TLS dated April 16, 1974 from John Cleese to Chapman, signed “John,” which reads, in part: “The Python projects I would like to do are the next Book, the next record, and any other short, sharp interesting ones that come up…But just to protect myself, I would like all American producer folk to know that if it led to a U.S. series - and I am not sure that any Pythons are very keen on that - I would not want to be involved…” A TLS from Chapman to Cleese, dated December 13, 1976, signed “Graham.” The letter reads, in part: “Three what are called ladies helped us out quite a lot at a Charity Concert. They’re called by effeminate names like Anne, Hazel and Judy. Well anyway, I sent them 1 oz. pots of caviar as a present from four of us, i.e. people with dead butch names like John, Michael, Graham and Terry…Well anyway, this gesture cost me 12.00 and so I would like 3.00 from each of the people mentioned above as soon as fucking possible.” A TLS from Cleese to Chapman, dated January 21, 1980, signed John [?], which reads, in part: “I have been talking to Amnesty about the possibility of following up The Secret Policeman’s Ball. Amnesty’s work is apparently increasing, so they have asked me to organize another late night show. I have agreed to direct. Could you let me know whether you basically feel favorably towards it…I fully appreciate that you do not want to commit yourself so far ahead, but you may have some idea if you will be in or around London at that time.” A TLS from Eric Idle to Chapman, signed “Eric,” which reads, in part: “Many thanks for the chance to read Yellowbeard…there are so many nice strong characters and good points being made, that I think you’ve written something which could be excellent…so to get it done you’re going to have to find someone very bankable, or else pare down some of your more expensive scenes…My only immediate thought is that Lorne Michaels is the sort of person who would appreciate the comedy whilst potentially offering sound finance advice…” A TLS from Idle to Chapman which includes an affixed obituary. The letter reads, in part: “Sitting scanning the old Deaths column of the Daily Telegraph I came across an entry which I knew would please you…Trust that you are well and happy…” signed “Eric.” (difficult to tell whose obituary would be so pleasing as there are three here). From David Frost, on his personal stationery, “Graham, Greetings! David” to which he has also added his address. In overall fine to very good condition, with scattered light creasing, occasional small area of trivial soiling. R&R COA.
