John Cleese introduces Stephen Hall as new Basil Fawlty for stage show

John Cleese has introduced Stephen Hall as the brand new Basil Fawlty.

The British comedian has given his seal of approval to the Australian actor, who will take on the role during the forthcoming stage production.

Cleese who played the iconic character in the 1970s television series, was on hand to make the announcement in Melbourne on Monday.

The 76-year-old was behind Hall’s casting and has acted as a writer on the Fawlty Towers – Live On Stage.

Speaking about the decision to cast Hall, Cleese said: “You need someone who connects with the character emotionally.”

Hall has previously starred in the Australian version of Monty Python musical adaptation Spamalot.

The stage production of the much-loved British sitcom will premiere in Australia rather than the UK as Cleese thinks British audiences are too ‘thin-skinned’.