Did you know the actor who played Uncle Albert, Buster Merryfield, was a real-life bank manager before acting? That mix of ordinary lives and extraordinary talent is why the show feels so warm. Sullivan wrote from his own experience growing up in a working-class London family.
Another fun fact: John Sullivan wrote the famous “chandelier” scene the night before it was filmed. He was inspired by a friend who actually fell through a bar counter. That spontaneous energy is why it still makes us howl.
Only Fools and Horses - série TV 1981 - John Sullivan - Captain Watch
The show’s theme song, “Stickin’ Around,” was performed by the writer himself. Sullivan recorded it in his kitchen on a cassette player. Low-budget? Yes. Genius? Absolutely.
Why Rodney Matters in 2026
In an age of hyper-curated social media lives, Rodney’s unapologetic ordinariness is a balm. He wasn’t rich, he wasn’t cool, and he definitely didn’t have a skincare routine. Yet, he was deeply loved. That’s a quiet rebellion against the pressure to be perfect.
Watch an episode today, and you’ll notice how much of the humour comes from character, not cheap gags. The Trotters are broke, but they’re rich in personality. That’s a reminder that your worth isn’t in your bank balance—it’s in who you share your dodgy schemes with.
