Monty Python legend John Cleese sparked a debate on Twitter when he slammed the oath of allegiance given at the Coronation of King Charles, which is believed to have been used for more than a thousand years and requires those living in the UK to pledge allegiance to the monarch.
The oath states: “I do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law. So help me God,” reports The Mirror.
As the oath was given at the Coronation, Cleese took to Twitter on Saturday to say: “The pledge of allegiance idea would certainly please Donald Trump. But, since we no longer live in a feudal society, our pledge of allegiance should be to the Rule of Law, not to an individual.”
One follower responded: “I think it’s to a great deal more than both an individual and the rule of law. It is loyalty to hundreds of years of tradition, and over 2k years of loyalty to Christian beliefs, and to eternal archetypes.”
Some followers thought John was merely seizing an opportunity to bash the former President, with one musing: “And just like that, the pivot to Trump is checked off for the hour.”
Others asked John to embrace the UK’s celebrations, with one writing: “Love you John, but lighten up. It’s a pageant. Enjoy the show.”
Another wrote: “Relax. Everyone knows that this is all ceremonial pantomime. We are celebrating our history, tradition and culture. The monarchy and this coronation are just symbols of our national heritage.”
