The UK’s most iconic comedy television show is set to make a comeback after a hiatus of 20 years

 

This Christmas marks the return of the UK’s much-loved comedy as it receives a fresh update, 20 years following the conclusion of the series.

Channel 5 is set to broadcast an exclusive behind-the-scenes special focusing on the legendary BBC sitcom, featuring the esteemed Sir David Jason himself.

‘The Story Of Only Fools and Horses at Christmas’ will delve into the memory lane of the show’s 16 festive specials, boasting appearances by the 83-year-old Jason (renowned for his portrayal of wheeler-dealer Del Boy Trotter), Tessa Peake-Jones (known for her role as Del Boy’s wife Raquel), alongside other members of the cast and crew.

During the special, Jason will share insights into his favourite Christmas episode. Meanwhile, celebrity admirers will express their adoration for the show, which originally graced screens from 1981 to 1991, and was once crowned Britain’s Best Sitcom through an extensive BBC media campaign.

Since its conclusion in ’91, the series has periodically returned with Christmas specials, the most recent airing in 2003. Notably, the fourth OFAH Christmas special, ‘To Hull And Back,’ aired in 1985 and purportedly housed the most expensive joke in BBC history.

This documentary marks Jason’s first major television appearance post his hip replacement surgery earlier this year. A source revealed to The Sun, “Producers were thrilled when David was given the green light to appear post-surgery, ensuring the special will be a treat for fans.”

Jason has previously expressed his eagerness to ‘revisit’ his character of Del Boy if provided with a suitable script. Conversely, Nicholas Lyndhurst (renowned for portraying Del Boy’s younger brother, Rodney) has dismissed the notion of a revival due to the passing of many pivotal figures from the show.

Reflecting on the demise of creator John Sullivan in 2011, Lyndhurst conveyed to The Mirror, “We can’t resurrect Fools and Horses without the writers. It’s an impossibility. The series ended on a high note.”

Yet, there’s optimism in store for Only Fools And Horses enthusiasts. The immensely popular West-End musical adaptation, which entertained audiences from 2019 until earlier this year, might find its way onto television, as hinted by star and co-creator, Paul Whitehouse!

Speaking to The Sun, Whitehouse remarked, “While we acknowledge the original’s irreplaceable charm, our adaptation encapsulates the entire saga of Only Fools And Horses… It would be wonderful to witness our version translated for television.”

‘The Story Of Only Fools And Horses At Christmas’ is scheduled to air on December 24th on Channel 5.