David Jason Criticizes Only Fools Millionaire Plot

Sir David Jason has expressed his belief that the decision for his character, Del Boy, to become a millionaire in Only Fools and Horses was a critical mistake that diminished the show's charm. In the 1996 Christmas special, Del and his brother Rodney achieved this milestone by selling a valuable watch, which Jason argues ended the humorous journey of struggle that defined their characters. Although the show returned for three additional specials between 2001 and 2003, these episodes failed to capture the original magic, as they depicted the Trotters losing their fortune. Jason stated that the comedic essence stemmed from the Trotters' fight for survival, and once that was lost, the characters ceased to resonate. Despite the show's conclusion in 2003, its legacy remains significant, with 64 classic episodes written by John Sullivan. Their on-set camaraderie was also marked by mischief, including pranks that occasionally went awry, though it ultimately solidified their bond as co-stars.