John Challis, a multifaceted individual, left an indelible mark on the world of acting, with a career spanning numerous roles, from classical performances on stage to memorable characters in television drama, sitcom stardom, pantomime appearances, and even a one-man show.
From a young age, John had a burning desire to act, but he was initially encouraged to pursue a "proper" career, and so he worked as a trainee estate agent for a brief period and also delivered groceries. However, he eventually found his calling through a traveling children's theatre, and his professional journey began.
Without attending drama school, John honed his craft through performances in regional repertory theatre. His imposing physical stature and versatility led him to secure roles as police officers in Softly Softly (1966) and Crown Court (1972),as well as a recurring part in the BBC's long-running police drama Z Cars (1962) as Sergeant Culshaw.
John's impressive physical presence also earned him roles as heavies in The Sweeney (1975) and Doctor Who (1963),both directed by Douglas Camfield, who would later cast him in Beau Geste (1982).
John's first collaboration with David Jason was in the sitcom Open All Hours (1976),and in 1980, he landed a guest role in Citizen Smith (1977) as another policeman. His outstanding performance caught the attention of writer John Sullivan, who promised to find him another part, leading to his iconic role as Boycie, the second-hand car salesman, in the first series of Only Fools and Horses (1981).
This role would go on to become one of the longest-running and most beloved sitcoms of all time, with John becoming a regular cast member. In 2005, he began starring in the spin-off, The Green Green Grass (2005),and in 2011, he released his autobiography, "Being Boycie", which was followed by "Boycie & Beyond" in 2012. These led to John entertaining audiences by touring a one-man show, "Only Fools and Boycie".
