Terry Jones
Monty Python’s Terry Jones has been diagnosed with dementia. Getty

Monty Python star Terry Jones has revealed that he is suffering from dementia. The 74-year-old star, who co-directed the legendary comedy series alongside Terry Gilliam, revealed his diagnosis on Friday (23 September) in a statement through his spokesman.

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"Terry has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia, a variant of frontotemporal dementia," a representative for the writer said.

"This illness affects his ability to communicate and he is no longer able to give interviews. Terry is proud and honoured to be recognised in this way and is looking forward to the celebrations."

Frontotemporal dementia −which affects around 16,000 people in the UK− affects the parts of the brain largely responsible for language and the ability to plan and organise, and are important in controlling behaviour.

The news broke shortly after Bafta Cymru announced that the father-of-three will receive a BAFTA Cymru Special Award Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television.

His spokesman said of the accolade "Terry is proud and honoured to be recognised in this way and is looking forward to the celebrations."