Phil Childs plays Grandad in hometown Only Fools and Horses show

In Stoke-on-Trent, Phil Childs is preparing for his role as Grandad in the stage adaptation of the beloved British sitcom, Only Fools and Horses. The show, which follows a successful run in London's West End, takes the stage at The Regent Theatre in Hanley this week. This marks a special occasion for Childs, as he has performed in his hometown only twice before and is looking forward to seeing family and friends in the audience. Childs, who was born in Burslem and has lived in various parts of Stoke-on-Trent, expressed a deep connection to the area, noting his fondness for local elements, such as the canals, buildings, and beer. He articulated that the warmth of the community makes returning to Stoke-on-Trent a joy and comfort. Moreover, he described the role of Grandad as a unique privilege, stating that the original material from the TV series is of exceptional quality. Alongside Phil Childs, Sam Lupton stars as the lead character, Del Boy, and Tom Major plays Rodney. Lupton referred to the stage show as a 'love letter' to the original series, highlighting its humorous nature. The production draws inspiration from two classic episodes, paying homage to the sitcom's legacy and maintaining its spirit. With the show scheduled to run until Saturday, audiences can expect a performance that balances nostalgia with fresh interpretations. As the excitement builds, Childs noted that he is feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation in the days leading up to his performance. He acknowledges the importance of the character Grandad, who, despite only appearing in three seasons of the original series, left a lasting impact on audiences. This awareness adds to the weight of responsibility he feels in stepping into the character's shoes, as his goal is to capture the essence of Grandad without resorting to direct imitation.