Idle Gossip

The tweeting of John Cleese (mentioned here) would seem to be a response to this article quoting Eric Idle. Thanks to Walt Grogan for calling it to my attention.

This kind of thing distresses me. Now, it is of course possible that Mr. Idle was misquoted or taken way out of some comedic context and it would be troubling if that is so. I've seen relationships harmed because one party was clearly misquoted…but the offended party never quite believed that.

But if the quotes are accurate in word and intent, why is this kind of thing spilling over into the public arena? There have to be some real troubles bubbling there for that to happen.