Gumbys

Gumbys are recurring characters in Monty Python's Flying Circus, characterized by a very distinctive appearance. If a name was listed for them, the surname given would always be "Gumby", and the first name would usually be given as two initials. Gumbys have toothbrush moustaches, wear handkerchiefs on their heads which are knotted at the corners, wire-rimmed spectacles, braces, Fair Isle knitted tank tops, a 1950s shirt rolled up to the elbows (without the detachable collar), trousers rolled up above their knees and gumboots. They usually hold their arms in an ape-like position, speak loudly and slowly, and pronounce words syllable by syllable. Though created by John Cleese, the Gumbys were most often played by Michael Palin. Graham Chapman, Terry Jones and Cleese also had noticeable solo turns as Gumbys. Palin's Gumby voice was used to announce the show title in series three.