The Only Fools and Horses character inspired by a real person
Writer John Sullivan took inspiration from a family member
He might have been a late addition to the show but Uncle Albert sure made his mark on Only Fools and Horses. The sly old sea dog’s shenanigans always made us laugh as he caused trouble for the Trotters.
But did you know the character of Uncle Albert was based on a real person? Only Fools and Horses writer John Sullivan was inspired by a family member when adding in one detail about the mysterious troublemaker.
One episode of the TV show in particular featured a “habit” that Uncle Albert and Sullivan’s grandfather shared. Apparently, they both used the same trick to make some extra cash.
In episode three of season four, ‘Hole in one’, the Trotter lads think they have stumbled on their next big opportunity to become millionaires when Uncle Albert falls through an open door to the cellar at The Nag’s Head. A lightbulb goes off in Del’s head when he hears his uncle declare: “I’ve got a right mind to sue the brewery!”
Their case actually makes it to court but falls apart when Albert is called to the stand. The brewery’s barrister brings numerous similar cases involving Albert Gladstone Trotter to the attention of the court. Turns out, Uncle Albert has fallen through so many holes he has earned the nickname “The Ferret.”
This episode was based on real life events, with Uncle Albert pulling the same trick John Sullivan’s grandfather Dickie reportedly used to pull. The writer’s grandfather, a coal miner, apparently made a habit out of claiming compensation by falling down holes.
We wonder if he, too, had a nickname?
