Sir Michael Palin Discusses BBC Departure

Sir Michael Palin, the 81-year-old Monty Python star, has opened up about his departure from the BBC in 2012, citing increasing control and interference from the corporation as the main reasons for his exit. He expressed frustration over the BBC's new presentation style that revealed key moments within the first five minutes of shows, fearing it undermined his appeal. Since leaving, Palin has focused on travel documentaries for Channel 5, covering countries such as North Korea and Nigeria. He also shared feelings of disappointment when the BBC upheld a complaint about oversimplifying the Balkan war in his series New Europe. Despite past challenges, Palin is planning future travel projects and has recently released a volume of diaries titled 'There and Back'. He declined an offer to appear on Strictly Come Dancing, indicating a desire to maintain a different public persona.