The veteran comedian wrote the book, lyrics, and music for Tony Award-winning musical Spamalot, but he has never starred in the hit show - until now.

Idle has officially signed up to headline the limited summer production at the Hollywood venue as the Historian, the role originally played by Tony winner Christian Borle on Broadway.

In a statement announcing the casting news, Idle noted he is "proud to join a hand-picked cast of seriously funny people for three nights of fun at my favorite venue: The Bollywood Hole."

Also joining Idle in the production is Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson, former The Office actor Craig Robinson, and Harry Potter favourite Warwick Davis.

Monty Python's Spamalot will run for three performances from 31 July to 2 August (15).