The beloved British sitcom, Only Fools and Horses, continues to resonate with audiences years after its original airing, with its enduring characters and memorable humor. Since its debut in 1981, the show has produced national icons, including David Jason as Del Boy and Nicholas Lyndhurst as Rodney Trotter. As fans reminisce about the series, many are curious about the cast’s journeys since the show ended in 2003, which include both triumphs and tragedies.
The series, which follows the misadventures of Del Boy and Rodney as they attempt to strike it rich, has become one of Britain’s most cherished sitcoms. It received numerous accolades, including recognition from BAFTA and the National Television Awards, and was voted Britain’s Best Sitcom in a BBC poll. Despite the show’s conclusion, it still attracts viewers through reruns, showcasing the timeless appeal of its characters and storylines.
Impact of the Show on the Cast
David Jason portrayed the iconic Del Boy from 1981 until the series wrapped in 2003. Beyond this role, he is well-known for playing Detective Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost and Pop Larkin in The Darling Buds of May. His most recent acting appearance was in the reboot of Open All Hours in 2019. Since then, he has shifted his focus to voiceover work, especially in animation, due to difficulties with memorizing lines. In 2001, at the age of 61, Jason welcomed a daughter with his partner, Gill Hinchcliffe, and they married in 2005, residing in Buckinghamshire.
Nicholas Lyndhurst, celebrated for his portrayal of Rodney Trotter, has also found success in other roles, including Gary Sparrow in Goodnight Sweetheart. He currently stars in the revived American sitcom Frasier, which debuted in 2023. Lyndhurst plays Alan Cornwall, a character he describes as a delightful experience. In his personal life, he faced profound tragedy with the loss of his son, Archie Bjorn Lyndhurst, who passed away in 2020 from a brain hemorrhage linked to acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In a poignant statement, Lyndhurst expressed the family’s grief and requested privacy during this time. He now enjoys a quieter life in West Sussex, where he engages in hobbies such as diving and beekeeping.
Continued Success and Personal Stories
Tessa Peake-Jones played Raquel Turner on Only Fools and Horses for over a decade, from 1988 to 2003. Originally a guest performer, her character became a significant love interest for Del Boy. The actress, now 67, has a rich acting career and recently appeared in the BBC series Grantchester as Mrs. Chapman, a role she has held since the show began in 2014. Peake-Jones was in a long-term relationship with actor Douglas Hodge and has two children from that relationship.
Another notable cast member is Gwyneth Strong, who portrayed Cassandra Parry, Rodney’s girlfriend. Though her last television role was in EastEnders in 2016, she remains active in theatre, recently performing in the 70th anniversary production of The Mousetrap. Strong is also known for various other television appearances and married her partner, actor Jesse Birdsall, in 2000. Together, they have two children.
Paul Barber, recognized for his role as Denzil Tulser, also contributed significantly to the show. Denzil frequently found himself entangled in Del Boy’s schemes. Barber’s career spans numerous television shows, including Coronation Street and Minder. He received an honorary doctorate from Liverpool John Moores University in July 2011 for his contributions to the performing arts.
Lastly, Harry Merryfield gained fame as Uncle Albert in the sitcom. He joined the cast following the death of Lennard Pearce, who played Grandad. Merryfield’s career began later in life, and he became a beloved figure on the show, known for his catchphrase, “During the war…”. Sadly, he passed away on June 23, 1999, after battling a brain tumor, leaving behind a legacy fondly remembered by fans.
The journey of the Only Fools and Horses cast reflects a tapestry of personal successes, losses, and ongoing contributions to the entertainment industry. As reruns continue to delight audiences, the legacy of this iconic sitcom remains firmly entrenched in British culture.
