Only Fools and Horses stars Sir David Jason and Sue Holderness have led the tributes to their former co-star John Challis following his death aged 79.
On Sunday, it was announced that John, best-known for playing Terrance Aubrey ‘Boycie’ Boyce on the BBC sitcom, had died after suffering from cancer.
In a statement from his family, it 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.’
Tributes immediately came pouring in for the late actor, including from Holderness, who played Boycie’s wife Marlene in Only Fools And Horses.
In a statement, she 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.’
Sir David, who played Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter in Only Fools and Horses, said in a statement: ‘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.
‘We had known each other for well over 40 years when he appeared in the second episode of Only Fools and Horses as Boycie. 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.’
Former member of The Three Degrees Sheila Ferguson tweeted a picture of herself with her friend Challis.
‘I’ve been waiting for this for a few days now. It is with great sadness that I tell you that my dear friend, John Challis (Boycie from OFAH) has just passed. I’ve been in touch with his wife, Carol, who is obviously heartbroken, as am I. Much love, Sxx,’ she wrote.
‘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,’ wrote ‘Allo! ‘Allo! star Vicki Michelle.
Actor Crissy Rock, who appeared in Benidorm with John Challis, was among those paying tribute to the actor.
She said on Twitter: ‘I am heartbroken to hear the news that the legendary actor @BeingBoycie has sadly passed away. 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. Crissy xx.’
EastEnders star Tracy-Ann Oberman described John Challis as an ‘icon’, saying she was ‘absolutely gutted’ over his death.
She tweeted: ‘Omg just seen news about John Challis. I’m absolutely gutted . He had become such a wonderful friend and ally from meeting here Twitter . Love you John you icon and all thoughts to your beloved family. May your memory be a blessing. So sad.’
Actor Chris Rankin, who played Percy Weasley in the Harry Potter film franchise, recalled crossing paths with Challis on several occasions throughout the years when they both attended Comic-Cons around the UK.
‘Very sad to hear that the lovely @BeingBoycie has died,’ he said.
‘We shared many adventures around the comic cons of the UK over the years. I’ll miss sharing a tray of slightly stale sarnies and silly stories with you. Sending much love xxx.’
EastEnders star Stuart Antony expressed his sadness over Challis’ death, paying homage to his good humoured nature.
‘Very sad to hear the lovely @BeingBoycie has passed away. One of the funniest & nicest people I’ve ever met. RIP legend,’ he said.
Retired Royal Air Force navigator John Nichol also paid tribute to his late friend, tweeting: ‘Truly saddened to learn that my chum John Challis @BeingBoycie has died.
‘He was a truly lovely, decent & honourable man, and a great supporter of the RAF & @Memorial_theFew in particular (here with the late, great Geoff Wellum DFC). Sending love to Carol & his family. RIP John.’
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