Looking back on the success of Only Fools and Horses, Rodney Trotter actor Nicholas Lyndhurst shared a story about one famous scene that almost cost him his role in the BBC One sitcom. During the finale of the show’s second series, a scene involving a chandelier almost led to his firing. In this iconic moment, Rodney and his brother Derek face trouble while cleaning a chandelier and ended up watching it fall to the ground. Although fans consider this scene one of the most hilarious, it almost led to Nicholas getting fired. One crew member named Ray, concerned about the show’s budget, warned Nicholas not to laugh during the fall of the chandelier since it cost £6,000. However, tensions eased as Ray also ended up laughing, making the scene a success.
Only Fools and Horses, with its memorable chandelier scene, had a significant impact on the sitcom’s success. The show aired for seven series on BBC One, from 1981 to 1991, and included sixteen Christmas specials until its final episode in 2003. The series made Nicholas Lyndhurst and David Jason household names and brought other actors like Lennard Pearce and Buster Merryfield into the spotlight. Despite the passing of two decades since the show’s conclusion, it remains popular with fans. In 2022, items from the set of the show, such as a van door signed by David Jason, were auctioned for an impressive sum, highlighting the enduring legacy of Only Fools and Horses.
The tense moment during the filming of the chandelier scene became a humorous anecdote for Nicholas Lyndhurst, revealing the behind-the-scenes drama that almost led to his dismissal from the iconic show. However, this incident helped to highlight the camaraderie and shared laughter among the cast and crew of Only Fools and Horses. While the scene exemplifies the comedic brilliance of the show, it also serves as a reminder of the dedication and professionalism required in the entertainment industry. Despite the initial conflict, the successful completion of the scene showcased the resilience and creativity of everyone involved in bringing the beloved sitcom to life.
The enduring popularity of Only Fools and Horses is evident in the continued interest and nostalgia surrounding the show. Iconic moments like the chandelier scene have become ingrained in the cultural memory of viewers, solidifying the sitcom’s status as a classic. The comedy, camaraderie, and memorable characters created by Nicholas Lyndhurst, David Jason, and the rest of the cast have left a lasting impact on audiences. As fans continue to cherish the show, its legacy lives on through rewatching episodes, sharing anecdotes from the set, and collecting memorabilia that allows them to hold onto a piece of this beloved sitcom.
Looking back on his time as Rodney Trotter on Only Fools and Horses, Nicholas Lyndhurst’s revelation about the famous chandelier scene offers insight into the challenges and humor that shaped the show. Despite the close call during filming, the scene ultimately became a standout moment in the series and contributed to its enduring popularity. As fans revisit the iconic sitcom and celebrate its legacy, stories like this add depth to their appreciation of the characters, humor, and behind-the-scenes moments that made Only Fools and Horses a beloved classic. Through anecdotes and memories shared by the cast, the spirit of the show continues to resonate with audiences and remind them of the laughter and joy it brought into their lives.
