Spamalot doesn’t laugh at sad people, says Eric Idol.
Britney Spears was mentioned in the lyrics of the Diva’s Lament, sung by the Lady of the Lake. The lyric suggested that the actress playing the Lady was insulted at the thought of being replaced by Spears. It’s not exactly vicious, or really mean about Spears. Still now it’s been changed to Posh Spice – I suppose she’s seen as fair game.
Eric Idle said Tuesday in an e-mail:
“Because we don’t laugh at sad people. Mike Nichols (the show’s director) requested it and he’s right. We changed the lyrics in London, on tour, on Broadway and in Las Vegas. We think that it’s now too sad. Britney Spears is being tortured to death and we don’t want to be on that side.”
Hmm, the Pythons never flinched at poking fun at public figures in the past. I think it’s all a bit strange, what with the part being played by someone who won it in a reality TV contest and all! But that’s the West End for you at the moment.
(Source: Associated Press)
