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Only Fools and Horses Cast: A Look at the Stars and Their Careers Since the Beloved Sitcom
Only Fools and Horses, a quintessential British comedy series, remains deeply ingrained in the nation’s affection. This enduring sitcom elevated its performers, including David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst, to iconic status. Even years after its finale in 2003, catchphrases originating from the show continue to be part of popular parlance. The cherished sitcom centers on the escapades of Del Boy (Sir David) and Rodney Trotter (Lyndhurst), and their numerous schemes to achieve wealth.
The classic series concluded in 2003
The series resonated with audiences beyond its storylines by presenting relatable characters and unforgettable dialogue. It swiftly ascended to the status of one of Britain’s most revered comedy programs, as recognized by millions. The program earned widespread recognition, securing accolades from BAFTA, the National Television Awards, and the Royal Television Society. It was also honored as Britain’s Best Sitcom in a BBC public vote. The ensemble cast remains indelibly linked to their roles in Only Fools and Horses, with the show continuing to captivate both long-time viewers and new audiences in repeat broadcasts.
Read More… Only Fools and Horses Star’s Passing at 78 After Prolonged Illness Prompts Widespread Tributes [LATEST]
The Stars of Only Fools and Horses: Where Are They Now?
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David Jason remains a national treasure
David Jason
Sir David Jason, a celebrated actor, is best known for his iconic interpretation of Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter from 1981 to 2003. Since his time on the show, Sir David has enjoyed a distinguished career, notable for his roles as Detective Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost, Granville in both Open All Hours and Still Open All Hours, and Pop Larkin in The Darling Buds of May.
In 2019, he revisited his role in the Open All Hours revival, marking his most recent onscreen appearance. Subsequently, he has concentrated on voice work in animated productions, though he has acknowledged facing increasing challenges with memorizing lines.
Recently, the acclaimed actor announced plans for a one-man show later this year, promising a reflective journey through his illustrious career, potentially featuring special guest appearances.
Sir David’s promoter enthusiastically previewed the event, stating: “Relive some of the most memorable moments in British TV history, including legendary Only Fools and Horses scenes – the bar fall, the chandelier incident, Batman and Robin, and more.”
In 2001, at the age of 61, Sir David became a father when his partner, Gill Hinchcliffe, gave birth to their daughter. The couple married in 2005 and currently reside in Buckinghamshire.
Nicholas Lyndhurst is widely recognized for portraying Rodney Trotter in Only Fools and Horses
Nicholas Lyndhurst
Nicholas Lyndhurst is widely recognized for his portrayal of Rodney Trotter in Only Fools and Horses. Beyond this celebrated part, Lyndhurst has excelled in other sitcoms, embodying Gary Sparrow in Goodnight Sweetheart and Raymond Fletcher in Going Straight.
More recently, Nicholas joined the cast of the reboot of the American sitcom classic Frasier, which premiered in 2023 and continues to entertain viewers.
Reflecting on filming in the United States with Radio Times, the actor commented: “I’m just here for the duration of the show, and I’ll return home to the UK afterward. But it is absolutely wonderful to be here for now.”
In the revived series, Nicholas plays Alan Cornwall, an old college friend of Frasier and a university professor.
The popular comedy figure married Lucy Jane Smith, a former ballet dancer, in West Sussex in September 1999. They welcomed their son, Archie Bjorn Lyndhurst, in London on October 2, 2000.
Tragically, their son passed away in his sleep in 2020 due to a brain hemorrhage caused by acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Following this devastating loss, he conveyed that he and his wife were “utterly grief-stricken and respectfully request privacy.” Currently, Nicholas maintains a quiet life in West Sussex with his wife.
Outside of acting, the 63-year-old enjoys hobbies such as scuba diving, beekeeping, and piloting his own aircraft.
Gwyneth Strong, known for her role as Cassandra in Only Fools and Horses
Gwyneth Strong
Gwyneth Strong is primarily known for her role as Cassandra Parry, Rodney Trotter’s spouse, in the popular comedy.
Her most recent television appearance was in EastEnders in 2016, but she remains active in theatre, recently performing as Mrs. Boyle in the 70th-anniversary staging of The Mousetrap.
Audiences may also recognize her from various other roles, including WPC Rachel McMahon in the two-part drama The Missing Postman, the BBC drama Real Women from 1997 to 1998, Hetty in ITV’s Lucy Sullivan Is Getting Married (1999), and Elizabeth, Jim Brodie’s wife, in the BBC drama Casualty in 2003.
She also featured in the two-part True Confessions episode of A Touch of Frost, reuniting with her Only Fools and Horses co-star David Jason.
In her personal life, Gwyneth married Jesse Birdsall, her long-term partner and former Footballers’ Wives actor, in 2000. They have two children, Oscar (born 1988) and Lottie (born 1991), and two grandchildren.
Only Fools and Horses’ Lennard Pearce in his role as Grandad
Lennard Pearce
Lennard Pearce was an accomplished actor with extensive experience in both theatre and television, most famously known for his role as Grandad in Only Fools and Horses.
He was a part of the show from its inaugural episode in 1981 until his death in December 1984. On December 12, 1984, he suffered a heart attack and was urgently taken to Whittington Hospital, where his condition initially stabilized.
Sadly, the actor experienced a second heart attack on December 15 at his apartment and passed away at the age of 69.
Lennard Pearce’s television credits are extensive, including appearances in classics like Dixon of Dock Green (1965), Dr. Finlay’s Casebook (1967), Sykes (1972), and two separate runs on Coronation Street in May 1969 and April 1977.
He also appeared in the influential The Wednesday Play, prominently in Cathy Come Home (1966).
In the Only Fools and Horses episode titled “Strained Relations,” Grandad’s death creates tension between Del Boy and Rodney as they grapple with their grief.
The introduction of Uncle Albert into the series helps to alleviate this strain.
Tessa Peake-Jones played Raquel Turner in Only Fools and Horses
Tessa Peake-Jones
Tessa Peake-Jones graced screens as Raquel Turner in the classic series, a key part of the show for 11 years, from her first appearance in 1988 to her final episode in 2003.
She played Derek Trotter’s partner, initially joining the cast in a guest role.
The 67-year-old has built a prolific acting career, with numerous television appearances to her name. Her credits include Bergerac, The Demon Headmaster, Midsomer Murders, Casualty, and Holby City.
Tessa returned to her role as Mrs. Chapman in the ninth season of Grantchester, broadcast in January, a character she has played since the show’s outset in 2014.
During her time on the BBC sitcom, Tessa was in a long-term relationship with Douglas Hodge, who coincidentally played her adult son in one episode of Only Fools.
Despite their separation in 2013 after 29 years, they share two children, Charlie and Molly-Rose.
Tessa has showcased her versatility as an actress, taking on diverse roles throughout her career. In 2019, she displayed her musical abilities on the ITV program All Star Musicals, performing Abba’s “Mamma Mia”.
Only Fools and Horses’ Roger Lloyd Pack
Roger Lloyd Pack
Roger Lloyd Pack was celebrated for his portrayal of the endearing but simple-minded Trigger in the BBC One comedy series.
His breakthrough role occurred in 1981 when he was cast as Colin “Trigger” Ball. Initially a supporting character, Trigger went on to appear in almost every episode of the long-running series, capturing the affection of viewers.
He also gained recognition for his part in The Vicar of Dibley, playing Owen Newitt, a farmer with questionable hygiene who routinely flirted with Dawn French’s character without success.
Roger’s acting credits extended into film, including a role in the Harry Potter series as Barty Crouch Snr, head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.
He also enjoyed a successful career in stage acting. The comedy icon married Sheila Ball in 1968, with whom he had a daughter, actress Emily Lloyd; however, they later divorced.
He subsequently lived with poet Jehane Markham for 25 years before marrying her in 2000.
In January 2014, his agent, Maureen Vincent, announced that he had pancreatic cancer and had “died at home surrounded by his family”, prompting tributes from across the globe.
Only Fools and Horses’ Uncle Albert (Buster Merryfield), Del Boy (David Jason) and Rodney (Nicholas Lyndhurst)
Buster Merryfield
Harry ‘Buster’ Merryfield achieved widespread fame for his portrayal of Uncle Albert in the popular sitcom.
He acquired the nickname “Buster” from his grandfather because of his birth weight of nine pounds.
At 57, Buster transitioned to a professional acting career during World War II. His enthusiasm for acting began while serving as an entertainment officer, where he organized shows for the troops.
Following the death of Lennard Pearce, who played Grandad, in December 1984, Buster’s character was introduced to the show.
He joined the cast as Grandad Trotter’s long-lost younger brother and became famous for his common phrase “During the war…”
The actor also participated in pantomime performances during the Christmas seasons of 1997 and 1998, taking on the role of the father in Beauty and the Beast at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth.
Sadly, the BBC star passed away on June 23, 1999, at Poole General Hospital following a battle with a brain tumour. Buster had been married to his wife, Iris, since 1942, and they had a daughter and two grandchildren.
Iris passed away on November 5, 2002, and was buried alongside Buster.
John Challis is best known for his role as Boycie in OFAH
John Challis
Celebrated for his rendition of Boycie, John Challis was not only a television personality but also a distinguished stage actor, performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre.
Challis became a household name as Boycie, appearing in Only Fools and Horses for over two decades, from its inception in 1981 until its conclusion in 2003.
His professional relationship with creator John Sullivan continued beyond the series. His prior role in another John Sullivan sitcom, Citizen Smith, paved the way for his casting as Herman Aubrey “Boycie” Boyce in OFAH.
Sullivan later created a spin-off show focused on Boycie, entitled The Green Green Grass (2005-2009).
The comedy veteran was married four times, with his fourth wife, Carol Davies, whom he married in Brighton in 1995.
Sadly, John passed away due to cancer in his sleep on September 17, 2021, at the age of 79, leading to widespread tributes from his fellow actors.
Only Fools and Horses cast member Paul Barber
Paul Barber
Paul Barber, born in Toxteth, featured in numerous episodes of Only Fools and Horses as Denzil Tulser.
His character was frequently drawn into Del Boy’s ill-conceived schemes due to his trusting nature, making it challenging for him to decline opportunities.
Barber has also made appearances in Coronation Street, firstly as Nelson in 2004 and subsequently as Billy Arrowsmith in 2008. In 2011, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from Liverpool John Moores University for his significant contributions to the performing arts.
Throughout his career, Barber has secured diverse roles, including in To the Manor Born (1979), Minder (1980), Boys from the Blackstuff (1982), and The Front Line.
In recent years, he has appeared in Home from Home (2016 and 2018) and reprised his role as Ernest Maxwell in two episodes in 2019.
Beyond these roles, he also appeared in the 2022 crime action thriller film Renegades and is scheduled to star in the 2024 horror film The Baby in the Basket.