The cast of Only Fools and Horses: The Musical have been left ‘visibly upset’ after being targeted with racist abuse while on stage.
Inspired by the BBC sitcom of the same name, which ran from 1981 until 2003, the musical first hit the stage in 2019.
It is currently on a three-week run at the Eventim Apollo Hammersmith in London before it heads off on a tour around the UK.
However, during a performance last week, Black cast members Bradley John and Gloria Acquaah-Harrison faced shocking behaviour from an audience member.
The pair, who play lorry driver Denzil Tulser and Mrs Obooko respectively were specifically targeted with abuse.
‘It was a rowdy crowd on Friday night, with everyone in the Christmas spirit and pumped up for the show,’ another audience member told The Sun.
Doug Peters/ PA Wire)
‘But this idiot spoiled parts of the performance for those in earshot, it was totally unacceptable what was blurted out.
‘Unfortunately, security were unable to identify the culprit and eject them from the theatre.’
A source close to the production added that the cast members were ‘visibly upset’.
‘It’s not the sort of thing you would expect to receive in everyday life, let alone on a stage,’ they shared.
‘Fellow stars were upset too. They couldn’t believe what they were hearing and felt for the people targeted.
‘It’s a warm and fun production, it’s totally unacceptable.’
The show’s official page has since released a statement, saying this behaviour would ‘not be tolerated’.
‘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,’ it began.
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‘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 audience embrace an environment of respect, inclusivity and safety.’
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In the original TV series, Denzil was played by Paul Barber, while Mrs Obooko was a character created for the stage show.
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