Only Fools and Horses Timeline ( Real )

show_debut
September 8, 1981

Debut of Only Fools and Horses

The first episode of the British sitcom Only Fools and Horses was aired on BBC One, introducing audiences to the Trotter family.

tv_series
October 13, 1981

First Series concludes

The first series of Only Fools and Horses concluded after six episodes, setting the stage for future seasons.

character_introduction
September 8, 1981

Introduction of Rodney Trotter

The character Rodney Trotter, played by Nicholas Lyndhurst, was introduced, becoming a mainstay of the show.

award
1985

Only Fools and Horses wins BAFTA

The show won the BAFTA for Best Comedy Series, solidifying its status in British television.

series_end
October 25, 1991

Final regular episode of Only Fools and Horses

The last regular episode of the series was broadcast, marking the end of its original run.

specials_start
December 26, 1982

Only Fools and Horses Christmas Specials begin

The production of the popular Christmas Specials began, which became an annual event for fans of the show.

special_broadcast
December 25, 1996

Broadcast of 'Time on Our Hands' special

The special episode 'Time on Our Hands' aired and attracted more than 24 million viewers, a UK television record at the time.

honor
1993

David Jason awarded OBE

David Jason, lead actor in Only Fools and Horses, was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to drama.

series_finale
December 25, 2003

Only Fools and Horses ends with final special

The final special episode 'Sleepless in Peckham' aired, officially ending the saga of the Trotters.

Only Fools and Horses Timeline ( Fictional )

career_start
early 1970s

Del Boy starts selling goods on the market

Del Boy begins his career as a market trader in Peckham, selling various goods which often include dodgy items.

family_event
1979

Rodney moves in with Del Boy at Nelson Mandela House

Rodney, Del Boy's younger brother, comes to live with Del at their council flat in Nelson Mandela House, setting the stage for their adventures together.

property_acquisition
1979

Del Boy buys the three-wheeled Reliant Regal van

Del acquires his iconic yellow Reliant Regal van, which becomes his main mode of transport for his trading business.

business_attempt
early 1980s

The Trotters attempt to auction off the Imperial blue Ming Vase

Del Boy tries to sell a Ming vase he claims is valuable, leading to comedic mishaps during the auction.

family_event
mid 1980s

Uncle Albert joins the Trotters household

After the death of their grandfather, Uncle Albert comes to live with Del and Rodney, adding humor and naval tales to the family dynamic.

social_event
late 1980s

The Trotters discover 'The Jolly Boys' outing' plan

The Trotters and friends plan a day out, which features prominently in one of the popular episodes showcasing camaraderie.

comic_event
circa 1982-1983

Del Boy falls through the bar

At the Nag's Head pub, Del famously tries to impress people but falls through the bar, an iconic moment from the series.

family_event
1992

Rodney marries Cassandra

Rodney finally marries his longtime girlfriend Cassandra in a ceremony that highlights personal growth and family ties.

major_event
1996

The Trotters win the lottery

Del Boy and Rodney win the National Lottery, dramatically changing their fortunes and lifestyle.

business_venture
late 1990s

Del Boy and Rodney open a restaurant

After their lottery win, the brothers invest in a restaurant venture, showcasing their aspirations beyond market trading.