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'Only Fools and Horses' legend John Challis dies aged 79

John Challis has sadly passed away at the age of 79.

The English actor was perhaps best known for his role as the snobby second-hand car dealer Terrance Aubrey 'Boycie' Boyce in John Sullivan's beloved British sitcom, Only Fools and Horses.

As reported by BBC News, Challis' passing was confirmed by the actor's family, who revealed in a statement: "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."

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Credit: PA Images / Alamy

Earlier this month, the actor canceled a 30-date speaking tour due to ill health.

Challis starred alongside comedy icons David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst in Only Fools and Horses, in which he played Boycie in 33 episodes from 1981–2003.

The character proved so popular, that he reprived the role for the BBC spin-off sitcom, The Green Green Grass from 2005-2009.

In both shows, he starred opposite his on-screen wife, Sue Holderness, who played Marlene in the shows.

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Challis alongside Only Fools and Horses co-stars Sue Holderness Tessa Peake-Jones. Credit: WENN Rights Ltd / Alamy

Per the BBC, she has responded to Challis' passing by saying: "Marlene without Boycie - it's unthinkable. John Challis was my partner on screen and stage for 36 years and my beloved friend. RIP darling John. I will miss you every day."

After making a documentary in which he explored why Only Fools and Horses was so popular in Serbia - titled Boycie in Belgrade - he was honored with an honorary citizenship of the nation.

One of Challis' most notable recent roles was as Monty Staines in Benidorm.

Crissy Rock, who starred alongside Challis in the show, tweeted out her respects following the news. "I am heartbroken to hear the news that the legendary actor @BeingBoycie
has sadly passed away," she wrote.

"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".

Challis also had acting credits in iconic British shows like Coronation Street, The Bill, Heartbeat, and Doctors.

The long-time Arsenal supporter also penned two autobiographies; Being Boycie and Boycie & Beyond.

Our thoughts are with Challis' family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Tim Scrivener / Alamy