John Cleese Denies Islamophobia Claims, Calls Himself ‘Islamosceptic’ Ahead of UK Tour

British actor and comedian John Cleese is facing renewed public backlash over critical comments he made regarding Islam, multiculturalism, and British cultural identity as he prepares for an upcoming 18-date United Kingdom tour this September, according to reports from Yahoo News UK and International Business Times UK. The 86-year-old Monty Python star has strongly rejected accusations of Islamophobia, instead describing himself as an “Islamosceptic” who directs his commentary at religious doctrine rather than individual believers.

The controversy intensified after 5Pillars, an outlet covering news relating to British Muslims, published a critique highlighting Cleese’s social media statements alongside his scheduled tour dates in cities with sizeable Muslim populations, including Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds. Roshan Muhammad Salih, editor of 5Pillars, argued that Cleese’s remarks crossed the line from legitimate theological critique into generalized statements about Muslims and Islam. In response, Cleese defended his position on X, writing, “I am Islamosceptic, not Islamophobic,” while maintaining that skepticism toward a religious system should not be conflated with hostility toward human beings.

Social Media Commentary and Theological Debates

Over recent months, Cleese has used his X account to post extensive commentary regarding Islamic teachings, Christian values, and demographic changes in the United Kingdom. According to Yahoo News UK, the comedian claimed that the Koran’s teaching is “ALL about acquiring power” and asserted that traditional British values are under attack from Muslim belief systems. He also asserted that British cultural heritage is based on Christ’s teaching, contrasting them with what he described as the Koran’s teaching about acquiring power, killing ‘infidels’ and imposing Islam on everyone.

To defend his approach, Cleese drew a comparison to his work on the film Life of Brian, noting that the Monty Python troupe faced criticism without anyone labeling them “Christophobic.” Writing on the platform, Cleese stated, “Unfortunately, some Muslims cannot tolerate any form of criticism, even from someone who has made many jokes about Christianity. Nobody ever called me Christophobic after Life of Brian!” He further described himself as a “culturalist,” arguing that his commentary concerns cultural practices and societal values rather than race.

Political Endorsements and Wider Public Friction

The online debate has intersected with Cleese’s public political alignment. According to International Business Times UK, the comedian has publicly endorsed Rupert Lowe, the leader of the political party Restore Britain, stating that he trusts Lowe more than other political leaders. Operating to the right of standard British politics, Lowe’s party has focused its campaigning efforts around topics such as national identity and immigration.

This friction builds upon a history of outspoken remarks from the actor regarding immigration and urban demographics. In 2018, Cleese announced his decision to relocate to the Caribbean, asserting that London was “no longer an English city”. That claim prompted London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan to remark that Cleese sounded like he was speaking “in character as Basil Fawlty.” Cleese responded dismissively, describing the mayor as a “silly little man” and maintaining his stance on cultural changes in the capital.

September Tour Schedules and Next Steps

Despite the intensifying debate and calls from critics to examine his public statements, Cleese’s upcoming theatrical run remains scheduled as planned. Titled John Cleese and the Holy Grail, the 18-date UK tour is set to begin on September 1 at The Anvil in Basingstoke and conclude on September 22 at the Leeds Grand Theatre, as reported by International Business Times UK.

Each event on the itinerary features a screening of the 1975 comedy classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail, followed by an in-person question-and-answer session with the actor celebrating the film more than 50 years after its release.