Eric Idle Recalls Robin Williams’ Visit to Provence Estate in New Memoir “Idle in Provence” — Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

In a recent reflection on his enduring friendship with late comedian Robin Williams, British actor and Monty Python member Eric Idle shared fond memories of the relationship that blossomed in the summer of 1980. Idle discusses their shared moments in his new memoir, “Idle in Provence: A Brief History of Thyme,” which provides an intimate glimpse into his life in France while also highlighting a variety of celebrity friendships.

Idle first encountered Williams when he attended one of the comedian’s performances at the Comic Strip in Soho. At that time, Williams was riding high on the success of his sitcom “Mork & Mindy,” which had catapulted him into the limelight. “Shelley Duvall insisted that we go to see Robin perform in London, and I was blown away,” Idle recalls. Despite being unaware of Williams’ fame prior to the show, the energy he brought to the stage transformed a hostile, rowdy crowd into adoring fans who hung on his every word.

According to Idle, this initial meeting led to a deep and lasting friendship. After their first dinner together with Williams and his then-wife, Valerie, Idle realised that they would become lifelong friends. “Even at dinner, Robin was hilarious,” Idle noted, setting the stage for their future encounters at Idle’s picturesque estate in Provence, France.

Williams visited Idle’s home multiple times, where he was often the source of great amusement as well as a few surprising quirks. While his onstage persona exuded fearlessness, Idle humourously noted that the beloved actor had a surprising phobia of bugs. One incident at the estate saw Williams spotting a wasp by the pool, leading him to scream and take off running. Soon after, however, he returned and entertained Idle and his guests with a hilarious impersonation of a French child, capping off the evening with his characteristic comedic flair.

Idle also recounted a memorable excursion to the local fête in Carcès, where Robin, clad in a baseball cap and hoping to avoid recognition, discovered the bliss of anonymity in a foreign country. To his bewilderment, no one seemed to care who he was, allowing him to immerse himself in the festivities without interruption. As he began to relax, he even took to the centre of the dance floor to proclaim, “I’m Mork! I’m Mork!” to no reaction from the partygoers, further highlighting the surreal nature of celebrity.

Throughout the memoir, Idle includes anecdotes of various celebrities who have graced his home, including notables like George Harrison, David Bowie, and Paul Simon. Each visitor brought their own unique exuberance, but the bond he formed with Williams remains particularly cherished. Even amid the swirl of celebrity life, there was a camaraderie that transcended their public personas, as illustrated by their shared laughter and lighthearted antics.

As Idle continues to tour the U.S. to promote his book, he hopes to share even more of these warm recollections with fans. These stories stand as a testament to the lasting legacy of friendship and laughter that Williams left behind.

“Idle in Provence” serves not only as a memoir of Idle’s time in the French countryside but also as a tribute to the joy that Williams brought into his life. The book is now available for readers eager to delve into the rich tapestry of Idle’s experiences and the relationships he formed throughout his illustrious career.

With each page, readers can expect not just celebrity anecdotes, but deep reflections on friendship and the joyful moments shared among icons. Through his unique narrative style, Idle effectively captures what it means to cherish relationships and find joy, both in the spotlight and in the intimacy of home.