Only Fools and Horses legend nearly refused role: “I can’t do this”

Only Fools and Horses star John Challis almost turned down the role of Boycie.

In 2021, Chas (who was his name) gained significant recognition for playing the character Herman Terrance Aubrey ‘Boycie’ Boyce, a role he held in the popular, long-running BBC sitcom that also featured David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst.

Yet, in the most recent installment of “best”‘s “Suddenly Single”, it was disclosed by Debbie Arnold, a former “EastEnders” star and Challis’ ex-wife, that the actor had some reservations about the role initially.

She stated on the podcast that she was the one who got John involved with creating “Only Fools and Horses,” as he had previously worked on a series called “Citizen Smith” and came close to playing the character Boycie. Later, the writer of “Only Fools and Horses,” Johnny Sullivan, decided to incorporate that character into the show.

“John got the script and said, ‘It’s only four f**king lines, I can’t do this darling’,” she added.

Based on Arnold’s account, with a bit of persuasion, Challis consented to take up the role and actually based the character on someone familiar to them.

She clarified, “I asked him, ‘What’s the price?’ He replied, ‘£400’. I agreed, so he responded with ‘Alright then’, and that concluded our transaction.

At that particular point, my mom’s companion went by the name Terry. He was known for his teddy boy jackets, a mustache, and a laughter reminiscent of Boycie.

Initially, Only Fools and Horses aired for a span of ten years, from 1981 to 1991. Later on, it made comebacks with several special episodes, with its final broadcast happening in 2003.

In the world of TV gaming, I stepped back into the shoes of my iconic character, Boycie, alongside my on-screen wife Marlene (played by the fantastic Sue Holderness) in the spin-off series, The Green Green Grass, from 2005 to 2009. It was a delightful journey!

In 1985, Arnold and Challis went through a divorce, yet Arnold claims that they maintained a friendly relationship following the end of their romantic involvement.

When her first-born daughter came into the world (from a previous relationship), he took on the role of her godfather, she shared happily. She was present at all his subsequent wedding ceremonies as well.

The debut issue of Digital Spy’s print magazine, titled “British Comedy Legends,” is available for purchase! Grab a copy from your local newsstand or buy it online for £7.99.

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2025-04-24 12:49