Legendary British actor Sir David Jason has revealed a surprising and lesser-known fact about his illustrious career. The beloved star, best known for his iconic portrayal of Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter in Only Fools and Horses, has disclosed that he played a secret cameo role on the classic BBC comedy sketch show The Two Ronnies.
The Secret Cameo Unveiled
During a recent interview, Sir David opened up about his involvement in one of The Two Ronnies’ most memorable sketches, The Phantom Raspberry Blower of Old London Town. The comedy sketch, which aired in 1976, portrayed a mysterious figure roaming the foggy streets of Victorian London, attacking unsuspecting victims with a loud raspberry noise.
For years, the identity of the “Phantom Raspberry Blower” remained a mystery, with many assuming that Irish comedian Spike Milligan, who had written the character for Six Dates with Barker in 1971, was the culprit. However, Sir David set the record straight in his autobiography David Jason: My Life, revealing that he was, in fact, the man behind the notorious raspberries.
A Unique Talent
Sir David fondly recalled how Ronnie Barker personally chose him for the task, acknowledging his exceptional raspberry-blowing abilities.
“In 1976, The Two Ronnies included a weekly serial called The Phantom Raspberry Blower Of Old London Town… and I was given the honour of providing the raspberries for the soundtrack,” he shared. “As Ronnie B knew, few people blow a raspberry as well as me. Indeed, I consider myself a world leader.”
The raspberries weren’t just any ordinary sound effects. Ronnie Barker meticulously guided Sir David in the sound booth, conducting him like an orchestra conductor to ensure the perfect volume, tone, and duration. Sir David humorously recounted how Barker even directed him through a raspberry rendition of the 1812 Overture.
A Comic Legacy
The sketch became one of the most celebrated moments on The Two Ronnies, with the Phantom Raspberry Blower character so beloved that it was later adapted into a stage production. Sir David remains proud of his unique contribution, keeping a cherished memento from the recording session: a credit board reading “Phantom Raspberry Blower — David Jason”.
“I’m enormously proud of my contribution to that little moment of comic history,” Sir David added.
A Comedy Legend
Sir David Jason’s career spans decades and includes iconic roles not only as Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses but also as Detective Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost and Granville in Open All Hours. His versatility and talent have made him a national treasure, and this latest revelation only adds to his legendary status.
The Two Ronnies, which aired from 1971 to 1987 on BBC One, starred comedy duo Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett. The show is remembered for its clever wordplay, musical parodies, and beloved sketches such as Fork Handles, The Sweet Shop, and Mastermind.
A Humorous Legacy
Fans of Sir David Jason and classic British comedy were delighted by this newfound trivia, with social media abuzz at the idea of the veteran actor’s secret role. Many expressed admiration for Sir David’s willingness to share behind-the-scenes stories and his continued passion for comedy.
Sir David’s candid confession about his ‘raspberry’ talent only solidifies his legacy as one of Britain’s most cherished entertainers. It’s a fitting tribute to a man whose career has been filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.
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