Key Highlights
- Sir David Jason will reunite with the “Only Fools and Horses” cast for a new documentary marking 45 years since the show’s premiere.
- The two-part series, titled “Only Fools And Horses: The Lost Archive,” promises to feature behind-the-scenes footage and previously unseen material that was filmed but never broadcast.
- Cast members including Sir David, Tessa Peake-Jones, Gwyneth Strong, and Sue Holderness will pay tribute to the show’s late creator, John Sullivan.
- The documentary series is scheduled to air on U&GOLD in 2026, celebrating the beloved sitcom’s enduring legacy.
Reuniting for the Anniversary
The iconic British sitcom “Only Fools and Horses,” which has been a ratings juggernaut since its premiere on September 8, 1981, is set to celebrate its 45th anniversary in style. Sir David Jason, best known as Del Boy, will once again come together with his fellow cast members from the beloved series for “Only Fools And Horses: The Lost Archive,” a new documentary marking this significant milestone.
Behind-the-Scenes Magic
“Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive” promises to offer viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms. According to Sean Doherty, the director and series producer, the programme will feature new interviews with cast and crew alongside archival material spanning more than 10 classic episodes. This includes fan favourites like “The Jolly Boys’ Outing” and “Mother Nature’s Son,” as well as previously unseen clips that were filmed but never broadcast due to not fitting the timing or structure of original episodes.
Cast Members and Creator
Sir David, along with Tessa Peake-Jones (Raquel), Gwyneth Strong (Cassandra), and Sue Holderness (Marlene) will also be involved in the upcoming special. The documentary series will also include new material from episodes such as “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Uncle,” “Mother Nature’s Son,” and “Time on Our Hands.” Additionally, the cast members will pay tribute to the show’s late creator, John Sullivan, who passed away in 2011 at the age of 64.
Restoration and Digital Scanning
The unearthed clips have undergone digital scanning and restoration from 16mm negatives, ensuring that the cast appears in high definition. Sean Doherty highlighted the show’s lasting appeal: “Few shows have the kind of enduring ity that Only Fools enjoys. The archive has uncovered some extraordinary material – 66 unseen clips and scenes so far that were filmed but never broadcast because they didn’t fit the timing or structure of the original episodes, plus nearly 100 assets from rushes and location filming. We’ve truly been spoilt for choice.”
A Celebration of Legacy
The two-part series is set to air on U&GOLD in 2026, marking a significant moment for fans of “Only Fools and Horses.” Helen Nightingale, UKTV’s head of factual and factual entertainment commissioning, added: “Only Fools And Horses is part of the national DNA. With its humour, heart, and unforgettable characters, it’s British comedy at its very best. This series is a celebration of its legacy and a chance to share new discoveries with the fans who’ve loved it for decades.”
The enduring appeal of “Only Fools and Horses” has led to various adaptations over the years, including a musical adaptation starring Paul Whitehouse that opened in 2019 and toured the UK and Ireland in 2024 and 2025.
This new documentary series promises to continue that legacy by sharing new and previously unseen material with fans around the world. This reuniting of cast members for “Only Fools And Horses: The Lost Archive” is not just a celebration but also an opportunity to explore the rich history and enduring impact of one of Britain’s most cherished sitcoms.
