Only Fools and Horses’ episodes have been updated with ‘trigger warnings’ telling viewers they may find some of the content offensive. The classic BBC sitcom, written by the late John Sullivan, has been branded with disclaimers warning of offensive and outdated language.
A trigger warning is a statement or notice given before content that might evoke a strong emotional response, distress, or re-experiencing of trauma in some people. The purpose of a trigger warning is to allow individuals to prepare for or avoid content that could negatively affect their mental health or well-being.
Some people find trigger warnings helpful, as they give them the choice to engage with the content or prepare themselves emotionally. Others debate their necessity, arguing that they could be overused or stifle open conversations.
The Only Fools series one episode ‘The Russians are Coming’ has a note that reads: “Contains some offensive racial language of the time.” ‘The Yellow Peril’ and ‘Who’s A Pretty Boy’ – from the second and third series respectively – also carry the same warning. Two more episodes from series four have the warning whilst series five’s ‘The Miracle of Peckham’ warns of language that “may offend”.
The 1985 Christmas special ‘To Hull and Back’ also has a message that reads: “Contains dated attitudes and behaviours and racist language some viewers may find offensive.” The sixth and seventh series are the only ones unaffected by the warnings.
Only Fools and Horses episodes are also shown on the channel UandGold and they have been given warnings as well.
One viewer said on social media: “It takes a brave platform to showcase a comedy. People are desperate to be outraged and offended in this country. Even UK Gold has to give a ******* warning before showing an episode of Only Fools And Horses.”
Another said: “Anyone offended by Only Fools and Horses has clearly had a sense of humour failure and needs to lighten up.”
Sir David Jason – who played Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter in the comedy – previously explained that the cast were given guidelines to follow during the making of the show. Speaking on the ‘Plot Twist’ podcast, the 84-year-old actor said: “You were given this set of rules that you had to abide by, writers, actors, directors. You weren’t allowed to say anything about religion or religious people, it’s all there.”