John Cleese would refuse a knighthood if he was offered the British honour

When asked if he would turn down a knighthood in the New Year's Honours List, he said: "I would. I simply don't need that sort of validation.

"It's enough for me to know - because people often tell me - that I've helped them through difficult times by making them laugh. They come home, turn on an episode of Fawlty Towers and the world doesn't seem quite so bleak. That's my reward.

"Frankly, I think those things are rather silly.

Cleese's fellow Monty Python troupe member Michael Palin did accept his knighthood and although he isn't interested in receiving he accolade the Fawlty Towers actor was happy for his long-time friend.

In an interview with Candis magazine, Cleese said: "Good luck to him. I was genuinely pleased. I call him Sir Mickey: that's how I always address my emails to him, He's a lovely guy."

Cleese, 85, is proud to be in an exclusive club of men who did snub a knighthood, a list which includes late rock star David Bowie and The History Boys writer Alan Bennett, 91.

The comedian said: "Just look at those men who have turned down awards and titles: David Bowie, Michael Frayn, Alan Bennett and Albert Finney. I have respect for them."

Cleese admits his political beliefs are still on the left when it comes to the distribution of wealth, despite him presenting a show on right wing TV channel GB News.

He said: "I'm more to the left economically. I think greed is in danger of killing everyone.

"People should be paid good salaries, where possible. We should be generous, not try to save money so billionaires can get richer."

The Life of Brian actor also wishes the world would lighten up and enjoy more "good old-fashioned laughter".

Cleese added: "I think we need much more laughter in the world. I'm not advocating mean teasing. Just good old-fashioned laughter. There's nothing to beat it."