Two Only Fools and Horses cast members were “racially abused” during their show in west London, reports say.
Castmembers Bradley John and Gloria Acquaah-Harrison, who play lorry driver Denzil Tulser and Mrs Obooko, were targeted by an audience member, who also made other comments, during a show at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith.
An eyewitness told The Sun: “It was a rowdy crowd on Friday night, with everyone in the Christmas spirit and pumped up for the show.
“But this idiot spoiled parts of the performance for those in ear shot, it was totally unacceptable what was blurted out.”
The witness told the newspaper that security was unable to find the culprit and eject them from the theatre.
A source also told the Sun that cast members were left “visibly upset” by the comments as they “they couldn’t believe what they were hearing”.
The incident has prompted a response from the producers of the show itself.
In a statement posted on Instagram, they wrote: “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.”
The show, which features former Wimbledon striker Vinnie Jones making his stage acting debut, has been praised by some of the show’s original cast members.
Sir David Jason, who played Del Boy in the hit BBC comedy, revealed he found the musical “hysterical” after watching it for the first time last week, and praised how much of the original script was used.
After a four-year run on the West End, the stage production has returned for a UK and Ireland tour.
Were you at the show? Email tom.davidson@standard.co.uk
