A treasure trove of forgotten moments is about to be unlocked for fans of one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms. Sir David Jason, the iconic face of Del Boy, is leading a remarkable project to revisit the world ofOnly Fools and Horses.
The upcoming two-part documentary,Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive, promises a captivating journey through 45 years of comedic brilliance. It’s a celebration of the show’s enduring legacy, timed to commemorate its anniversary in 2026.
What makes this project truly special is the discovery of previously unseen footage – clips and scenes filmed but never broadcast. These rediscovered gems offer a fresh perspective on the classic episodes and the characters we’ve grown to adore.
Sir David Jason himself expressed his delight, noting the show’s continued resonance with audiences. “The love forOnly Foolshas never faded,” he shared. “Revisiting these rediscovered moments reminded me just how special the show was – and still is.”
The documentary won’t just rely on unearthed footage. It will also feature heartfelt interviews with the original cast – including Tessa Peake-Jones (Raquel), Gwyneth Strong (Cassandra), and Sue Holderness (Marlene) – and the crew who brought the show to life.
Expect to see restored versions of iconic scenes from episodes like “The Jolly Boys’ Outing” and “Mother Nature’s Son.” A particularly exciting find is footage from the opening of “The Class Of ‘62,” previously believed to be lost forever.
The meticulous restoration process has breathed new life into the archive, digitally scanning and enhancing 16mm negatives to reveal the cast in stunning high definition. It’s a visual upgrade that will delight longtime fans.
Beyond the laughs,The Lost Archivewill also pay tribute to John Sullivan, the brilliant creator ofOnly Fools and Horses, whose vision shaped a generation of comedy. His influence will be honored throughout the series.
Director and series producer Sean Doherty revealed the sheer scale of the discovery. “We’ve uncovered 66 unseen clips and scenes so far, plus nearly 100 assets from rushes and location filming.” It’s a testament to the wealth of material created during the show’s run.
![Television programmes: Only Fools and Horses. Rodney Trotter [Nicholas Lyndhurst] and Del Trotter [David Jason]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/PRI_13214041-0bc9.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
The original series, which captivated audiences from 1981 to 2003, followed the hilarious misadventures of Del Boy and Rodney Trotter. It wasn’t just a sitcom; it became a cultural touchstone, reflecting British life with wit and warmth.
Sir David Jason once described playing Del Boy as carrying a “ghost” – a role that defined his career and resonated with millions. He reflects on the enduring appeal of the character and the satisfaction of a life well-lived through comedy.
This documentary isn’t simply a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s a rediscovery of a national treasure, offering a unique and intimate look behind the scenes of a truly iconic show.
