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Only Fools And Horses star John Challis has died 'peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer' aged 79, his family said.
Challis was best-known for his portrayal of unscrupulous second-hand car dealer Boycie in the beloved British sitcom, alongside Sir David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst.
He cancelled a 30-date speaking tour earlier this month after only one appearance due to ill health.
Challis had an extensive television career but is best known for portraying Terrance Aubrey 'Boycie' Boyce in the long-running BBC Television sitcom Only Fools and Horses (1981–2003) and its sequel/spin-off The Green Green Grass (2005–2009) and Monty Staines from the seventh series onwards in the ITV sitcom Benidorm from 2015 to 2018.
Challis was born in Bristol but when he was one year old, the family moved to south east London. He attended the state boarding Ottershaw School near Woking, Surrey. Upon leaving school he worked as a trainee estate agent before becoming a professional actor.
In a statement, his family said: 'It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news. Our dear friend and yours, John Challis, has died peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer.
'He will always be loved for being 'Boycie' and leaves a great legacy of work that will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come.
'Please respect the privacy of John's family and friends at this difficult time, and be
