In December 1975, Monty Python’s Flying Circus was broadcast for the first time in the US... but somebody cut out all the naughty bits!

The ensuing landmark legal battle with the mighty ABC television network saw Michael Palin metamorphose from lion to lamb as he and Terry Gilliam battled to get the rude bits put back where they ought to be.

This true story captured writer Steve Thompson’s imagination when he read about it in Michael’s earlier diary and he was inspired to write a play about it.

Next thing he knew Michael was calling him up and it was the start of a beautiful working relationship.

Steve, who went to St Albans School and cut his theatre teeth at the Barn Theatre aged seven, says: “He was a bit worried where it might lead and was asking me lots of questions, but I obviously passed the test as he then introduced me to Terry and let me read the transcripts of the case and all the original Monty Python correspondence which he still has.

“He was so sweet to me.

“They both totally fulfilled all my expectations. Michael is the nicest man you have ever met and Terry is a ball of creative energy.“

The resulting riotous comedy, No Naughty Bits, premiered at Hampstead Theatre in 2011 and this month will be performed at the Barn, directed by his father Keith.

Steve, 46, who has gone on to write for shows such as Doctor Who and Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, believes this will be the first amateur production of his play and says: “It’s fun my dad is directing it and they have got some terrific actors in the cast.

“I’ll be along to see it for sure and I might ask Michael along as well.“  

Barn Theatre, Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City, June 13 to 21. Details: 01707 324300, barntheatre.co.uk

See our interview with Michael Palin here