One of television’s most legendary and beloved faces is making a surprise comeback and it has fans buzzing.
David Jason, whose career has spanned decades and brought countless laughs into living rooms, is set to reprise his role as Granville.
In a one-off TV special that promises humour, nostalgia, and a few surprises along the way. While the details are being kept under wraps, insiders say it’s a rare chance to revisit one of his most iconic characters in a brand-new context.
Originally starring in the BBC sitcom Open All Hours, which first aired in 1976, Granville quickly became a fan favourite, charming viewers with a mix of awkward antics, endearing quirks, and perfectly timed comedy.
The show returned in 2014, this time with Granville stepping up as the shopkeeper, and ran for six seasons until 2019.
Now, the special, a 90-minute retrospective called Open All Hours: Inside Out, offers fans a final glimpse of Granville’s world, along with behind-the-scenes anecdotes from Jason and the cast.
“It’s so exciting to revisit this world and share it with everyone again,” Jason said. “There are so many memories and stories, and it’s a joy to finally lift the lid on them.”
For viewers who had hoped for another full season, this special provides a bittersweet send-off, wrapping up storylines and giving Granville the closure fans have been waiting for, including a long-awaited romantic resolution with Mavis, played by Maggie Ollerenshaw.
Next year marks nearly 50 years since Open All Hours first aired, and this special celebrates the legacy with a mix of humour, heart, and nostalgia.
Senior producers describe it as “one of those rare events that reminds you why you fell in love with TV in the first place.”
Even at 85, Jason shows no signs of slowing down. “There are still so many stories left to tell,” he said. “Senior actors have a lot to offer, and it’s thrilling to share this one last hurrah with fans.”
Last month he was in the press for a less celebratory reason. He was called out for his “creepy” behaviour towards Naga Munchetty during a BBC Breakfast interview.
The Only Fools and Horses legend, 85, appeared on the show to promote his upcoming tour, An Evening With Sir David Jason, and to share anecdotes from his 60-year career. Viewers felt the actor started to “flirt” with Munchetty, 50, in scenes they found “uncomfortable”.
While trying to recall a story he was telling, Jason trailed off, prompting Munchetty’s co-host Charlie Stayt, 63, to say: “Come back to the anecdote, what was it you were going to say? A little story?”
Jason remained fixated on Munchetty, telling Stayt: “Yes I was, but… you… it’s Naga, I can’t resist, [I can’t] take my eyes off her.”
Open All Hours: Inside Out will air on U&GOLD next year,
