Confession time. I had never heard of Only Fools and Horses when I moved to London after lockdown. I’ve never watched one single episode. Should I feel guilty, uncool, or just plain lucky? The show is regarded as “one of the greatest pieces of British television ever made” or “one of the best-written comedies of all time”. For those unfamiliar with the iconic television series, which ran from 1981 to 2003, it is a mildly amusing comedy.
At its height, it pulled in 21.3 million viewers on Christmas Day in 2001. It’s also become a must-see musical in the West End, constantly receiving glowing reviews. As someone who is pretty addicted to mainstream television, I am still reluctant to sit down and watch it. Of course, Only Fools and Horses concluded before the boom of streaming services and the mass commodification of online entertainment, but people still talk about it over two decades on.
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The British sitcom is regarded as one of the best comedies ever written (Image: Getty)
British sitcoms are some of the most straightforward shows to watch. You’ve got a continuous cast and a familiar setting, making it a very binge-worthy programme. Its predictability makes it a safe environment for TV watchers. Other examples include Gavin & Stacey, Blackadder, Faulty Towers, and Still Game – all compellingly easy.
Only Fools and Horses has now become dated by contemporary standards. The show takes the viewer back to a simpler time in Peckham—before social media, lockdowns, and the challenges of everyday life. It is escapism at its finest.
It’s also so old that it has recently been hit with disclaimers warning of offensive and outdated language. The series one episode ‘The Russians are Coming’ has a note that reads: “Contains some offensive racial language of the time.” The sixth and seventh series are the only ones unaffected by the warnings.
I’m not easily offended, and I generally have a good sense of humour, so it shocks me that the attitudes and behaviours from a 1980s sitcom have been slapped with disclaimers. People do need to lighten up and have a laugh during these bleak times.
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Sir David Jason starred as the lead role in the British sitcom (Image: Getty)
But, as much as I would like to give the show a go, I still have reservations. At the end of the day, I am not a born and bred-Londoner. I don’t feel connected to Only Fools and Horses at all, and I have tried to watch shows that usually aren’t my cup of tea.
I once regrettably sat through an episode of Mrs Brown’s Boys. I’ve had more fun vomiting since then. I’ve avoided watching anything similar since. My apologies to Sir David Jason, but I will be sticking with Plebs and Friday Night Dinner.