To celebrate the 45th anniversary of Only Fools and Horses in 2026, U&GOLD has announced a new two-part documentary: Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive. Packed with never-seen-before footage uncovered in the archive from over 10 classic episodes - including fan favourites like The Jolly Boys’ Outing and Mother Nature’s Son - and more, the series also features new interviews with cast and crew. Created by John Sullivan - whose wit and warmth defined a generation of British comedy - Only Fools and Horses remains one of the most loved shows in television history.
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 loved The Jolly Boys’ Outing.
Originally broadcast on Christmas Day 1989, 20.1 million viewers followed Del Boy, Rodney, and the gang on a chaotic trip to Margate. Images of never-seen-before scenes released today include Boycie (John Challis) and Mike (Kenneth MacDonald) joking about Rodney still being head over heels “in lust” a year after getting married. Audiences will also see Del Boy (Sir David Jason) take the microphone at the front of the coach to update the gang on some very important news.
In touching interviews, Sir David Jason (Del Boy) 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 heartfelt reactions and paying tribute to creator John Sullivan. Other contributors include Mike Jones (Co-author, Lovely Jubbly), Perry Aghajanoff (Chairman, Only Fools and Horses Appreciation Society), Chris Wadsworth (Editor, Only Fools and Horses), and Tony Dow (Director, Only Fools and Horses).
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. Another revelation are Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb’s repeated retakes, which cost production hours as Del Boy and Rodney were sent up and down the river to capture the right shot in Miami Twice.
Commissioned for UKTV by Helen Nightingale, Head of Factual and Factual Entertainment, Commissioning and ordered by Gerald Casey, Director of Programming, Comedy and Entertainment, and Hilary Rosen, Director of Commissioning. Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive is co-produced by North One and Shazam, with Sean Doherty as Series Producer and Director, and John Quinn and Amy Sullivan as Executive Producers. It will air on U&GOLD in 2026.
Sir David Jason said: “The love for Only Fools has never faded. It’s incredible to see how many people still hold it close to their hearts. Revisiting these rediscovered moments reminded me just how special the show was - and still is. It’s incredible to be able to share them now.”
Helen Nightingale, UKTV’s Head of Factual and Factual Entertainment, Commissioning, said: “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. This series is a celebration of its legacy and a chance to share new discoveries with the fans who’ve loved it for decades.”
Sean Doherty, Director and Series Producer, said: “Few shows have the kind of enduring popularity that Only Fools enjoys. The archive has uncovered some extraordinary material - 66 unseen clips and scenes so far that were filmed but never broadcast because they didn’t fit the timing or structure of the original episodes, plus nearly 100 assets from rushes and location filming. We’ve truly been spoilt for choice!”
Only Fools and Horses was a ratings powerhouse, with Time on Our Hands attracting 24.3 million viewers - a record that still stands. Its legacy has inspired a hit West End musical, spin-offs, merchandise, and fan experiences - proving its lasting cultural impact. As the show turns 45 in 2026, Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive celebrates its enduring appeal and the timeless humour that made it a household favourite.
Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive is the latest comedy commission for U&GOLD, following Joe & David’s Magical Sitcom Tour. Last month, the channel saw the premiere of The Good Life: Inside Out, a 50th anniversary retrospective celebrating the enduring charm of the iconic sitcom. Looking ahead to early 2026, U&GOLD will premiere Becoming Victoria Wood - a feature-length documentary exploring the life and legacy of Victoria Wood, which will also receive a nationwide theatrical release.
