Who Played Grandad In Only Fools And Horses

Alright, mate, let's dive into the world of Trotters and talk about the granddad who played a blinder in Only Fools and Horses. You know, that classic sitcom that's as British as a cup of tea and a soggy sarnie on a rainy day. Now, I'm not one for giving away spoilers, but if you haven't seen it, where have you been? Under a rock? Anyway, no harm in a little refresher, yeah?

Meet the Man, the Myth, the Legend: Buster Merryfield

So, who's this granddad we're on about? None other than Buster Merryfield, the bloke who played Uncle Albert in the show. Now, if you're thinking, "Hang on, I thought it was Grandad," well, you're not wrong, love. Uncle Albert was Grandad's brother, see? A bit like when your mum calls your dad's brother 'uncle' even though he's not really. It's all about perspective, innit?

Buster, he was a proper Londoner, born and bred. He started his acting career back in the '60s, but it was his role as Uncle Albert that really put him on the map. He played him from 1983 until 1991, and even made a comeback in the specials. That's like your nan who only comes out of her room for Christmas dinner and the royal wedding, but you love her all the same, yeah?

Uncle Albert: The Original Eccentric

Now, Uncle Albert, he was a character, wasn't he? Always turning up unannounced, living in the past, and singing that bloody "Who Dares Wins" song. Sound familiar? Like that mate who always crashes on your couch, lives in his glory days, and can't help but sing the same tune every time he's had a few pints.

But Buster, he played him with such charm, didn't he? Made you love him even when he was driving you mad. It's like when your granddad tells the same story over and over, but you still laugh because, well, he's your granddad, and you love him.

Buster was a natural at playing the eccentric old-timer. He'd been around the block a few times, so he knew how to bring that character to life. It's like when you've been working in the same office for donkey's years, you know how to play the part of the grumpy old git who's seen it all, yeah?

From the Navy to the Nag's Head

You might be thinking, "How did Buster go from singing sea shanties to being a regular at the Nag's Head?" Well, mate, it's all about the acting, isn't it? Buster had a knack for making you believe he was whoever he was playing. It's like when you're trying to convince your boss you've been stuck in traffic when really, you were just having a lie-in. You believe it, and so does he. For a bit, anyway.

Only Fools and Horses - the tragedy and heartache that has blighted

Buster's acting career spanned over four decades, and he played all sorts. From a priest in The Sweeney to a tramp in Minder. He even played a bloke called 'Buster' in Citizen Smith. Talk about typecasting, eh? But he didn't mind, he just went with it. It's like when you keep getting asked to play the same role in the office Christmas play because you're good at it. You might as well embrace it, yeah?

Buster's Legacy Lives On

Sadly, Buster passed away in 1999, but his legacy lives on in the form of Uncle Albert. Every time you hear that "Who Dares Wins" song, you think of him, don't you? It's like when you hear your nan's favourite song on the radio, and it takes you right back to her kitchen, with the smell of her Sunday roast and the sound of her laughter.

Buster left behind a career filled with memorable performances, but it's Uncle Albert that he'll always be remembered for. And you know what? That's alright. Because sometimes, it's the simple things that make us smile, like a granddad who turns up unannounced, lives in the past, and sings a bloody catchy tune.

So, here's to Buster Merryfield, the man who played Uncle Albert, and made us all laugh, cry, and sing along. Cheers, mate. You were one in a million.