Only Fools and Horses musical producers issue statement calling out ‘unkind comments, bullying, discrimination or any form of abuse’

The producers of Only Fools and Horses the Musical have issued a statement regarding the treatment of company and audience members.

The nature of the incident sparking the need for a comment has not been disclosed by the show, while the musical continues to run at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith. Reports from patrons state that abusive comments were shouted from the auditorium at actors on stage.

The comment is as follows: “Here at Only Fools and Horses the Musical we always act with respect and kindness towards ourselves and others. We do expect our audiences to do the same.

“Any unkind comments, bullying, discrimination or any form of abuse towards our cast or company members will not be tolerated by the producers or theatres. We expect respect on and off stage.

“We are committed to working closely with the venue teams to ensure that our cast, company and audiences embrace an environment of respect, inclusivity and safety.”

Directed by Caroline Jay Ranger, Only Fools and Horses has musical supervision and arrangement by Stuart Morley. The show closed in the West End in April 2023 after four years at Theatre Royal Haymarket – with over 1000 performances, making it the longest-running production in the venue’s history.

Producers have felt much more empowered to call out audience behaviour over the last few years, with strong statements from company members and shows.