Only Fools and Horses star's nephew dies as his watch cruelly stolen

22 August 2023 , 08:26

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Only Fools and Horses star John Challis' nephew has died

Only Fools and Horses star John Challis' family have been left heartbroken after his nephew's watch was cruelly stolen.

The actor's wife Carol took to Twitter - now X- to share the devastating news that their Simon has died. Posting on the late Boycie actor's page, Carol shared a pic of John and Simon together. Alongside the snap, she wrote: "Simon’s personal belongings were returned to us today from Germany, at last. Sadly his wristwatch was missing. Disappointing that someone should feel the need to help themselves. God bless these two, my much loved husband and his friend, my nephew Si."

Carol was flooded with support from fans, as one said: "So sorry for yet another loss." Another added: "I'm so sorry this happened." "You've had your fair share of sadness, but I sure hope that by posting all these photo's and memories it brings you happiness. Sending love from Essex," commented someone else. A fourth wrote: "Despicable that someone would steal from someone’s personal property. Thoughts are with you all x."

Carol shared a picture of John and Simon together (Twitter/ @BeingBoycie)

Another commented: "That is so sad that someone could steal such precious belongings from a grieving family. So very sorry you’ve lost your nephew." John passed away in September 2021 at the age of 79, with his loved ones saying at the time the Boycie actor died "peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer" and asking that donations in his memory be made to his chosen animal charities Cuan Wildlife Rescue, Tusk or the British Hedgehog Preservation Society.

Following his death, it was 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. John was previously married to first wife Carol Robertson and actresses Debbie Arnold and Sabina Franklyn. The late actor had no children. The Sun reported probate figure show John left a gross estate of £497,000 and after his affairs were settled, the remainder went to fourth wife Carol.

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John best known for playing Terrance 'Boycie' Boyce in the classic British sitcom Only Fools and Horses alongside David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst. He reprised his comedic role for the show's spin-off, The Green Green Grass and also enjoyed stint on Benidorm, My Family and Open All Hours. Sharing the news John had passed away on September 19 2021, the late star's loved ones said 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. Please respect the privacy of John’s family and friends at this difficult time, and be assured that in the future there will be an occasion to celebrate John’s life – when everyone will be welcome to come along." The statement went on to add that donations in his memory could be made to his chosen animal charities Cuan Wildlife Rescue, Tusk or the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. Concluding, John's grieving loved ones signed off saying: "As Boycie would have said… you know it makes sense!"

Last year, Carol shared a snap of her beloved husband's grave and gave fans directions on how to visit him, should they wish to. The headstone features a subtle nod to the much-loved comedy show, as it reads: "John Challis - actor - 1942-2021, I am here." Fans will recognise the phrase from an episode of Only Fools – 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. "You never said your name was Aubrey," said Trigger, before he adds: "Nor would you if your name was Aubrey."

Mia O'Hare