Only Fools and Horses legend reveals why part of nostalgic new documentary for classic comedy was "torture"

Only Fools and Horses star Tessa Peake-Jones has admitted that parts of filming a retrospective documentary for U&GOLD felt like "torture" – but she expects viewers to enjoy it immensely.

The actor, who played Raquel in the long-running and truly iconic British sitcom, is one of several original cast members to appear in Only Fools and Horses: The Lost Archive, which celebrates 45 years since the series premiered on our screens.

The two-parer promises to show fans behind-the-scenes footage, newly-discovered images and deleted scenes, which have been digitally scanned and restored from 16mm negatives.

"I think the public will really enjoy the programme, partly because it is unseen footage," said Peake-Jones, during an appearance on The One Show. "So no one, including us, has ever seen this stuff."

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Nevertheless, she also found looking back to be "really weird" and not always enjoyable.

"It's not like you're looking at something from a couple of years ago," continued Peake-Jones. "This is decades and decades ago. So, I mean, we were in, you know, our 30s, 40s, 50s then. And so it was very odd.

"I hate looking at myself anyway. I don't watch anything I'm in. So to have to sit there was like torture, to look at yourself 30 years ago. It felt really weird."

A first-look clip from the documentary series has been released, which you can watch below or via British Comedy Guide.

In addition to Peake-Jones, The Lost Archives also features interviews with Sir David Jason (Del Boy), Gwyneth Strong (Cassandra), Sue Holderness (Marlene Boyce), Steven Woodcock (Jevon) and Denis Lill (Alan Parry).

On her former co-star Sir Jason's reaction, she told The One Show hosts that he was "quite touched by it all" and "found it very nostalgic".

When the documentary was announced, Sir David Jason said in a statement: "The love for Only Fools has never faded. It's incredible to see how many people still hold it close to their hearts.

"Revisiting these rediscovered moments reminded me just how special the show was – and still is. It's incredible to be able to share them now."

Director Sean Doherty added: "The archive has uncovered some extraordinary material – 66 unseen clips and scenes so far that were filmed but never broadcast because they didn't fit the timing or structure of the original episodes, plus nearly 100 assets from rushes and location filming. We've truly been spoilt for choice!"

Only Fools and Horses is available to stream on ITVX. The Lost Archive is coming soon to U&GOLD.

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