Only Fools and Horses Returns: Lost Archive Documentary Unveils Unseen Footage

Beloved Sitcom Celebrates 45th Anniversary with Special Documentary

British comedy fans have reason to celebrate as Sir David Jason is reuniting with former Only Fools and Horses castmates for a special documentary marking 45 years since the beloved sitcom first appeared on television. The 85-year-old actor, famed for his portrayal of wheeler-dealer Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter, will feature in Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive, a two-part programme set to air on U&GOLD next year.

Only Fools and Horses remains one of Britain’s most treasured television programmes, having originally aired from 1981 to 2003. Only Fools and Horses still holds the record for the UK’s biggest-ever sitcom audience, with Time on Our Hands attracting 24.3 million viewers. The show’s enduring popularity demonstrates its significance in British popular culture.

Uncovering Rare Behind-the-Scenes Material

Featuring never-seen-before footage uncovered in the archive from over 10 classic episodes, the series also offers new interviews with cast and crew. These special episodes unearth long-lost material, behind-the-scenes footage, newly discovered images and clips, which have been digitally scanned and restored from original 16mm negatives. For the first time ever, the cast appear in HD in scenes from some of the most iconic episodes including the much celebrated The Jolly Boys’ Outing.

Further discoveries, which didn’t make it into the original episodes due to timing or structural constraints include new material from He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Uncle, Mother Nature’s Son, Time on Our Hands, and an unseen opening scene of Del and Rodney in a nightclub from Class of ’62 previously thought to be lost forever.

Cast Members Share Fond Memories

In new interviews, Jason, Tessa Peake-Jones (Raquel), Gwyneth Strong (Cassandra), Sue Holderness (Marlene Boyce), Steven Woodcock (Jevon) and Denis Lill (Alan Parry) look back on their time in Peckham – watching long-lost moments, sharing reactions and paying tribute to creator John Sullivan. Cast members will also pay tribute to the sitcom’s creator, John Sullivan, who died in 2011 aged 64.

Sir David Jason expressed his delight about the project, stating: “The love for Only Fools has never faded. It’s incredible to see how many people still hold it close to their hearts”.

A Celebration of British Comedy Heritage

The documentary represents more than just nostalgia—it’s a celebration of a show that shaped British comedy. 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.

For fans who have treasured the series for decades, this documentary offers a unique opportunity to experience new moments from the show they love. It will air on U&GOLD in 2026, providing the perfect way to commemorate the 45th anniversary of a programme that continues to bring laughter and joy to millions. The discovery of this lost archive material ensures that Only Fools and Horses’ legacy will continue to enchant both longtime devotees and new generations of viewers.