This year is the 40th anniversary of the release of Monty Python’s Life of Brian. The film met with instant controversy in 1979 and was banned in Ireland, Norway and parts of Britain. In the US, protesters gathered outside cinemas where it aired.

Michael Palin’s live show will mix tales of his travels with memories of those halcyon days with Monty Python, writes Noel Baker

Good afternoon. Here’s everything you need to know from around the world this lunchtime.

Professor Stephen Hawking has lent his voice to the scientific brilliance of ... Monty Python?