Iconic Monty Python scene which was nearly cut as John Cleese 'hated it'

The team first appeared on TV together in a BBC series, Monty Python's Flying Circus, in 1969. Five of the six members - Terry Jones, Graham Chapman, , Eric Idle and Michael Palin honed their comedic styles while studying at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Fans may be surprised to know some classic scenes from the film almost never made it on screen.

In a resurfaced interview one of the film editor's revealed one of the most memorable scenes almost ended up on the cutting-room floor. Julian Doyle shared that in the 1979 movie Life of Brian one key moment was almost dropped after actor John Cleese, 85, wanted to remove Biggus Dickus scene after his character, the centurion, "became too silly for words" with Michael Palin teasing the soldiers to make them laugh.

Biggus Dickus is a fictional character in the Monty Python film Life of Brian, portrayed by Graham Chapman, playing a Roman nobleman and officer.

During the scene guards could be seen stifling their laughs at the name 'Biggus Dickus' while Pontius Pilate (played by Michael Palin) dared the soldiers to continue laughing.

"[John] originally felt Michael was moving out of character," Doyle told the Daily Telegraph.

"And although John was probably right, when we ran the finished film the audience were in such hysterics as the scene progressed that they did not care about the finer details, they just wanted it to go on and on."

He went on: "The Pythons were sticklers for perfection, and thought some of these skits were too silly, too offensive or too dull."

But all the scenes were ultimately retained, with Doyle saying: "Thankfully, they changed their minds and the rest, as they say, is history."

Doyle also worked on the Pythons' 1975 Holy Grail film - which recently marked its 50th anniversary.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail is considered to be among the best comedy films of all time.