Monty Python star Terry Jones diagnosed with dementia

Monty Python star Terry Jones (Getty)
Monty Python star Terry Jones (Getty)

Comedy icon Terry Jones, a founding member of legendary comedy group Monty Python, has been diagnosed with dementia.

The 74-year-old is suffering from primary progressive aphasia, which affects his ability to communicate.

As a result, Jones "is no longer able to give interviews", his spokesperson said.

The news came alongside the announcement that Jones would be honoured with an outstanding contribution award at the 25th BAFTA Cymru Awards.

"Terry is proud and honoured to be recognised in this way and is looking forward to the celebrations," his representative said.

Friend and fellow Python member Eric Idle has thanked fans for their support:

Other entertainers also took to Twitter to support Jones.

The news follows the death of actor Terence Bayler, a New Zealander noted for his on-screen contributions with the Python team.

Among his most notable accomplishments are the films Jones directed - Monty Python's Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life, as well as co-directing The Holy Grail with fellow Python, Terry Gilliam.

Newshub.