Only Fools and Horses star John Challis has entertaining nod to show on his grave
John Challis' headstone has been unveiled by his widow Carol, featuring a subtle nod to a rather amusing reference made in the world-famous comedy
John Challis has a reference to Only Fools and Horses on his headstone, it has been revealed by his widow.
Carol Challis took to social media to share a snap of her beloved husband’s grave and gave fans directions on how to visit him, should they wish to.
However, some fans noticed a touching tribute to a classic oneliner which was famous in the universally loved sitcom.
John who played Boycie in the show died in his sleep back in September 2021, aged 79 following a battle with cancer leaving the world devastated.
Now, Carol has been sharing insights into John’s life away from the camera as well as updates on his final resting place in Leintwardine.
John Challis’ wife Carol has shared a snap of his headstone which features a reference to Only Fools and Horses (
Twitter)
John died aged 79 in September 2021 (
The headstone which has now been fully installed reads: “John Challis – actor – 1942-2021,” with the words “I am here” engraved into the bottom of it.
Fans will recognise the phrase from an episode of Only Fools which was written by the late John Sullivan – which sees psychic Elsie Partridge holding a seance which features Del Boy, Rodney Trotter and Boycie.
After allegedly making contact with an unknown man, Elsie says: “He wishes to speak to someone named Audrey… no, Aubrey.”
While the room remains silent, Boycie comments: “I am here,” before explaining that his middle name is Aubrey.
The star was famous for his oneliners (
Dave J Hogan/Getty Images for Neil Reading PR)
“You never said your name was Aubrey,” said Trigger, before he adds: “Nor would you if your name was Aubrey.”
Fans were moved by the touching tribute, with one writing: “He stole that episode from some of the finest comedy actors around with those memorable three words. Rest in peace John/Boycie.”
“The ‘I am here’ is comedy genius. RIP Sir,” tweeted a second.
Before a third commented: “An excellent choice of epitaph. Hopefully, future generations will understand its significance and find it as amusing and as fitting as we do. Rest In Peace John.”
However, after Carol offered an insight into local recommendations for where fans could stay, one follower noticed that the hotel she suggested also holds a place in John’s heart.
“The lion is also the pub/hotel where scenes from Green Green Grass were filmed,” they said – referencing Boycie and his on-screen wife Marlene’s spin-off show from Only Fools.
It’s believed that John left around £469,00 to Carol following his devastating death.
Just over a year on from his death, it’s been reported that the icon’s will revealed his wishes for his assets and money to be gifted to his fourth wife Carol, who he tied the knot with in 1995.
