Communications watchdog Ofcom is investigating the Monty Python live show after bad language was broadcast before the watershed. Many of the complaints about the farewell show on 'Gold' concerned offensive language though some fans had aired their dismay that other areas of swearing were cut.

Monty PythonThe Monty Python live show has come in for criticism

An Ofcom spokesman said: "After receiving complaints about the broadcast of the most offensive language before the watershed, Ofcom is investigating a live performance of Monty Python on Gold."

The remaining members of the legendry comedy act - John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Michael Palin and Terry Jones - got back together for a string of gigs in London, though most of the shows apparently contained several close-to-the-bone routines and swearing. 

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The Ofcom spokesman added: "All our licensees are required to comply with our broadcasting rules, which make clear that the most offensive language cannot be shown on television before the watershed.

"As a post-transmission regulator, we are not involved in editorial decision-making and can only investigate programmes or take action against any channel after a programme's broadcast."

Monty Python's Flying Circus was hugely popular during the early 1970s, generating a cult following. The troupe went on to make a string of hit movies including Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life.