BYE BOYCIE
John Challis dead aged 79 – Only Fools And Horses star Boycie dies in his sleep after long battle with cancer
ONLY Fools And Horses star John Challis has died with cancer at the age of 79.
The actor, best known for playing second-hand car dealer Boycie in the beloved sitcom, died “peacefully in his sleep," his family said today.
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Earlier this month it was announced that John had been forced to cancel a speaking tour due to ill health amid reports he had been diagnosed with cancer.
In a statement today, his family said: "It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news.
"Our dear friend and yours, John Challis, has died peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer.
"He will always be loved for being 'Boycie' and leaves a great legacy of work that will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come.
"Please respect the privacy of John's family and friends at this difficult time, and be assured that in the future there will be an occasion to celebrate John's life - when everyone will be welcome to come along."
He will always be loved for being 'Boycie' and leaves a great legacy of work that will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come.
Family of John Challis
The much-loved actor played Terrance Aubrey Boyce in Only Fools And Horses from 1981 to 2003, as well as in Boycie-focused spin-off show The Green Green Grass.
Tributes poured in for him on Sunday, with Sir David Jason, who played Del Boy alongside Boycie, writing: "It is with much sadness to hear that John Challis, a dear friend, has passed away.
"He was a wonderful actor, a gentleman in the true sense of the word and I know he will be missed by so many."
Sir David added that Boycie was "a character so well loved by the many fans of that show so I am pleased that he witnessed the outpouring of admiration recently shown for the 40th anniversary of the first episode in 1981.
"I send my love and condolences to his wife, Carol."
GOODBYE BOYCIE
Boycie, a cigar-smoking businessman with a mocking laugh, was married to the feisty Marlene - played by Sue Holderness - and regularly butted heads with Sir David's Del Boy.
Paying tribute to her "beloved friend" today, Sue said: "Marlene without Boycie - it's unthinkable. John Challis was my partner on screen and stage for 36 years and my beloved friend.
"R.I.P. darling John. I will miss you every day."
John was recently made an honorary citizen of Serbia, where Only Fools and Horses remains hugely popular, and where John made the documentary Boycie In Belgrade.
He was also known for playing Monty Staines in the ITV sitcom Benidorm.
Crissy Rock, who appeared in Benidorm with John, today said she was left "heartbroken" by the news of his death.
The actress wrote on Twitter: "John you were a true gentleman and always so loving and supportive towards me.
"I am thinking of your family and close friends at this hard time. Rest well."
'LOVED BY THE NATION'
'Allo 'Allo! actress Vicki Michelle added: "Shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Wonderful John Challis such a fabulous man.
"Loved by the Nation. Condolences to his family and loved ones."
Meanwhile, TV writer and Good Morning Britain presenter Adil Ray described John as "a writer's dream".
He tweeted: "Very sad news. What a fabulous actor. A writer's dream.
"His performance turned Boycie into one of the funniest supporting characters in British sitcom. Thoughts with his family & friends."
Former heavyweight champion boxer Frank Bruno said: "John Challis RIP cannot believe it.
"(He) used to say to me 'Franklyn my dear boy how the devil are you boxed anybody round the ears recently?' Loved all the TV he did."
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Following the news of his death, Somerset County Cricket Club shared a video filmed with John Challis earlier this year in which he comically announced the extension of a player's contract.
"Somerset County Cricket Club are extremely saddened to hear about the passing of long term supporter John Challis," the club tweeted.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."
John Challis left an indelible mark on British popular culture with his portrayal of loudmouth second-hand car salesman Boycie in Only Fools And Horses.
He was in his late 30s when he landed the role of Boycie after impressing Only Fools And Horses creator John Sullivan in Citizen Smith, the show he made before making the Trotters household names.
Boycie, usually found at the Nag's Head pub with a cigar in one hand and a large cognac in the other, was instantly recognisable by his mocking laugh - which often followed a cutting remark about one of the Trotters.
Initially, the part was just one scene before the unscrupulous car salesman became more prominent as the hugely popular series continued.
And while many actors strive to escape the shadow of their biggest characters, John seemed to embrace Boycie's popularity.
He was a regular sight at the ever-popular Only Fools And Horses fan events and his Twitter handle was @BeingBoycie.
He also wrote two autobiographies, Being Boycie and Boycie & Beyond, and made the 2020 documentary Boycie In Belgrade, exploring why Only Fools And Horses remained hugely popular in Serbia.
He is survived by his fourth wife, Carol and did not have any children.
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John's family have requested that instead of flowers, donations are made to his favoured animal charities - Cuan Wildlife Rescue, Tusk and The British Hedgehog Preservation Society.
Their statement added: ";As Boycie would have said... you know it makes sense!"
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John Challis' best moments as Boycie in BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses