One Oklahoma State University alum has certainly hit it big, thanks to the success of Monty Python, "Fawlty Towers" and divorce lawyers.
Alyce Faye Eichelberger is a 64-year-old American-born psychotherapist with degrees and qualifications from OSU, plus Baylor and London universities. More than 15 years ago, Eichelberger married maybe the most famous British comedian of all time, John Cleese.
We have previously nudged Chicken-Fried News readers about the mind-blowingly awesome fact of an OSU Cowgirl marrying the well-known and beloved humorist Cleese. Also awesome is what Eichelberger is getting in the divorce, which appears to be as long and bitter as the marriage.
The final terms of the settlement give Eichelberger $13 million and assets and more than $900,000 a year for the next seven years. She is also getting their New York apartment, their house in west London and half of a yet-to-be-sold beach house in Santa Barbara, Cali.
The Daily Telegraph of London reported Eichelberger and her attorney (who had previously represented Sir Paul McCartney and the Prince of Wales in their respective divorces) claimed Cleese was a "world-renowned celebrity" and she was used to "being entertained by royalty and dignitaries in castles" " that's a far cry from being entertained at Eskimo Joe's.
The settlement is not sitting well with the silly-walking Cleese. The Telegraph also reported Cleese is writing a one-man comedy show to be called "My Alyce Faye Divorce Tour." He has also made public statements that clearly show his disdain for his third wife, telling the New York Daily News he "got off lightly" compared to what he'd have to pay if his ex had contributed anything to the relationship.
"What I find so unfair is that if we both died today, her children would get much more than mine," the Telegraph quoted Cleese.
"At least I will know in future if I go out with a lady, they will not be after me for my money," Cleese added.
Sounding like a discussion worthy of the "Argument Clinic" sketch, Cleese's best friend also fired a salvo.
"It is an extraordinary world which means John is left with much less than his former wife even though he is the star who did all the work," Michael Winner told the Telegraph. "The settlement defies human belief. John is extremely cross about it and I don't blame him."
