Onetime Monty Python member Eric Idle has revealed why he was a bit worried about asking Paul McCartney for permission to sing The Beatles’ “Love Me Do” on The Masked Singer last week.
Idle explains that it dates back to his unflattering portrayal of Dirk McNasty, the McCartney-like bassist of The Rutles, in the 1978 Beatles spoof All You Need Is Cash. Idol told the TV audience that Paul did give his OK, but jokingly asked the comic to “please tell me what show it is, so I can make sure to avoid it.”
In fact, McCartney even promoted Idle’s appearance. He tweeted: “I have heard whispers that a pal of mine is on America’s The Masked Singer. Best of luck friend! Sing with all your heart!”
Idle was eliminated from the competition after his performance, as was William Shatner, who seemed worse for the wear after spending the show in an uncomfortably hot and awkward costume — and wasn’t shy about saying so on his way out.
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