John Cleese

  • Acclaimed British comedian, often named the funniest man alive

  • Best-known for Monty Python, Fawlty Towers and A Fish Called Wanda

  • Founder of Video Arts - world’s largest provider of business training programs

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About

Best known for his brilliant humour and classic television and film performances, John Cleese is also an extraordinarily popular keynote speaker and after dinner speaker who enthrals packed audiences worldwide.

Often named the funniest man alive, John Cleese is both a versatile comedic actor and a leading business motivator. With the legendary Monty Python's Flying Circus, Fawlty Towers and A Fish Called Wanda under his belt, he created a unique comedic style that has inspired countless writers and comedians.

John Cleese achieved initial success at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and as a scriptwriter / performer on The Frost Report. In the late 1960s he became a member of Monty Python, the comedy troupe responsible for the sketch show Monty Python's Flying Circus and the four Monty Python films: And Now for Something Completely Different, The Holy Grail, Life of Brian, and The Meaning of Life.

In the mid 1970s, John Cleese and his first wife, Connie Booth, co-wrote and starred in the British sitcom Fawlty Towers. Later, he co-starred with Kevin Kline, Jamie Lee Curtis, and former Python colleague Michael Palin in A Fish Called Wanda and Fierce Creatures. He also starred in Clockwise, and has appeared in many other films, including two James Bond films as R/Q, two Harry Potter films and three Shrek films.

However, John Cleese's influence is also felt in the corporate world as the founder of Video Arts, the world's largest provider of business training programs. Established in 1972 with three fellow British actors, Video Arts has gained an international reputation as the premier source for business know-how.

John Cleese attributes his success at making hit training programs to his fascination with psychology and his love for teaching and making people laugh. He believes that “humour in training increases retention and decreases anxiety. When the training point is surrounded with humour, it can be readily digested, remembered and applied”.

His philosophy has obviously paid off as Video Arts continues to expand. John Cleese's unique mix of humour and corporate knowledge can now be experienced on computer desktops with classic video vignettes that comprise Video Arts' new Fundamental Interactive CD-Rom series on entry-level business skills.

Speech Topics

On the corporate speaking circuit, John Cleese employs boundless energy and his inimitable sense of humour create a hilarious exploration of business basics, from corporate etiquette and customer service to creative thinking and problem solving.

Popular speech topics include:
• Business Basics with John Cleese
• An Evening with John Cleese
• Seven Ways to Skin an Ocelot
• What's So Funny? Tips for Success in Education, Business and Relationships
• Creativity in Business: How Making Your Workplace Fun can Improve Your Bottom Line
• John Cleese on Business and Life: And You Thought You'd Figured it Out!

John Cleese enthralls packed audiences worldwide. Whether he’s coaching novice comedians, discussing his liberal politics, or imparting his formulas for success in education, business and life, he always leaves audiences clamouring for more.

Videos

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Testimonials

Let me just say that John Cleese was exceptional in every way. Our best speaker to date.

SIA.

Books and DVDs

Clients often ask about purchasing books for giveaways and delegate packs. Below you’ll find a selection of products by John Cleese. Click the images to view on Amazon's website. For bulk orders, please speak with your Booking Agent.

How to book John Cleese for your event

To book John Cleese, please submit an online enquiry to booking.agent@nmp.co.uk or contact one of our booking agents on +44 (0)20 3822 0003.

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