Monty Python (or "The Pythons") is the collective name of the creators and stars of Monty Python's Flying Circus, a British television comedy sketch show conceived, written, and performed by Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. It first aired on October 5, 1969 and eventually comprised 45 episodes over 4 series. The Python phenomenon developed from the original television series into something much larger in scope and impact, spawning touring stage shows, 5 theatrically released films, numerous albums, several books, and a spinoff stage musical, as well as launching the members on to individual stardom.