Only Fools and Grandad!
Ever wondered where Lennard Pearce got the inspiration for his character of Grandad from?
Whilst watching an old repeat of Minder on UKGold my well tuned Only Fools ears picked up a familiar worn sandpaper voice. Leaping for the trusty Sky Plus rewind button I was amazed to Lennard Pearce making an appearance in the last episode of series 5 of the George Cole show.The episode called The Balance of Power was originally aired in October 1984 so predates Only Fools but only a week! So perhaps was uppermost in Lennards mind when playing in the early Only Fools shows.
When Arthur’s car lot is compulsory purchased by the council, he decides to run as an independent candidate in the local bi-election for a seat on the council. Terry and a local reporter help out, but just as he is about to win, the opposition want him barred for overspending during his campaign.
We first see George (Lennards’ character) seated quite comfortably in the Winchester Club: Arthur, seeking votes and collecting signatures, promises to bring back corporal punishment should he be elected. This appeals greatly to George who also enquires ‘will that include the birch?’ It’s typically Grandad from the voice right up to the clothing. Later in the show we see George complaining to Arthur that he hasn’t seen anyone hung yet!
If you do want to see the show it’s DVD code is MDRDVD0019 and available by clicking the link below when watching have a look at the local reporter he really looks very familiar too !!!!
order your copy now and have it on your door step tomorrow
Finally a few more screenshots for you
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Great Minder classic as well, one of my favourite and was Leonnards last TV appearance.
Only fools started in 1981. Leonnard died in 1984 so this could be his last role.
how ironic, peter woodthorpe played Reg, Grandads son