Only Fools And Horses legend Nicholas Lyndhurst is set to become a bigger name in the US at the age of 62.
The actor first appeared in the reboot of the iconic American sitcom Frasier in October last year – and his role is only set to get bigger.
With the show’s fans engrossed in the stoic British personality of its character, Alan Cornwall, writers are keen to explore his past when filming resumes next year.
A TV insider said this The sun: ‘Viewers are fascinated by Alan and want to know more about him.
“Writers are discussing ideas about his family and may bring in new faces to support his storylines.”
Only Fools And Horses legend Nicholas Lyndhurst is set to become a bigger name in the US at the age of 62 (pictured in 2019)
Writers are keen to expand Nicholas’ role (from left to right: Toks Olagundoye as Olivia, Kelsey Grammer as Frasier Crane and Nicholas Lyndhurst as Alan)
The actor is known on this side of the pond for his role as Rodney Trotter in the famous British sitcom Only Fools And Horses.
The series, which ran from 1981 to 2003, saw Rodney, Del Boy and Grandad running around a rough estate in Peckham making a series of dodgy deals in an attempt to become millionaires.
The comedy show’s honesty and hilarity became a cornerstone of British culture, with British adults voting it the best comedy series of all time in 2023.
Now Nicholas is gaining quite a reputation on the other side of the Atlantic in the role of Alan, a former friend of Dr. Frasier Cane (Kelsey Grammar) at the University of Oxford.
In the absence of Frasier’s brother Niles (David Hyde Pierce) from the screen in the show’s revival, Alan’s deadpan humor quickly puts the psychologist-turned-teacher in his place.
It’s not just writers who are keen to explore Alan’s backstory, fellow British actor Jack Cutmore-Scott, who plays Frasier’s son Freddy, has also backed the idea.
He told The Sun: “I would love it if we met Alan’s mother or his parents. I think Maggie Smith would be perfect. If you’re available, Maggie, please let us know.’
At a US TV event in February, Kelsey, star of the hit 1990s sitcom, branded the Only Fools And Horses star a ‘comedic genius’ and a ‘national treasure’.
Nicholas is best known for his portrayal of Rodney Trotter in the iconic British show Only Fools And Horses (photo 1981 L-R: Lennard Pearce; David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst)
He added that the reboot of the sitcom, which originally ran from 1993 to 2004, has given the actor a chance to showcase his acting talent and skills in the US.
Kelsey said he was “ecstatic” to work with the British actor and described the experience as a “pleasure.”
The announcement that the actor’s role will be expanded comes after it was confirmed that the revived version of the 1990s sitcom was officially renewed for a second season.
Executive Vice President of Programming at Paramount+, Jeff Grossman, praised Kelsey for reviving his old role as a radio psychiatrist.
“Kelsey made a triumphant return as one of television’s most iconic and beloved characters. The new series introduced Frasier to a whole new generation and reminded fans of Kelsey’s truly timeless portrayal of Dr. Crane,” he said.
“We are so excited to see what the creative team and incredible cast serve up for season two.”
Grammer himself also made a statement to show his excitement at being able to play the psychiatrist in the new series of the show.
“Frasier is a love story and I’m thrilled that we get to continue it,” he said.
The first season of the reboot revolved around the titular character, who traveled back to Boston in an attempt to rekindle his relationship with his son Frederick.
In addition to Nicholas Lyndhurst, the reboot featured new faces such as Toks Olagundoye as Olivia and Jess Salgueiro who played Eve.
Bebe Neuwirth and Peri Gilpin returned to the program to reprise their roles as Lilith Sternin and Roz Doyle, respectively.
Only Fools And Horses became a hit with the British after being named the best comedy series of all time in 2023 (L-R in 1996: David Jason as Del Boy and Nicholas Lyndhurst as Rodney)
Frasier star Kelsey Grammer (left) called Nicholas a “national treasure” and a “comedic genius”