Who is Tessa Peake-Jones aka Raquel from Only Fools and Horses and where is she now?
RAQUEL, the love of Del Boy’s life, was played by the multi-talented Tessa Peake-Jones.
While she is best known for her role in Only Fools and Horses, Tessa has appeared in many of the nation’s favourite TV staples.
Who is Tessa Peake-Jones
Tessa Peake-Jones was born on May 9, 1957, in Hammersmith, London.
The accomplished thespian’s most famous and iconic role was that of Raquel Turner in beloved BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses.
She trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama and has built an impressive acting career spanning television, film, and stage.
Tessa was in a long-term relationship with actor Douglas Hodge for 29 years before they separated in February 2013.
They got together in 1984 and have two children together — Charlie and Mollie Rose.
Only Fools and Horses
Tessa played Raquel Turner, the long-term partner of Derek “Del Boy” Trotter (played by screen legend David Jason), from 1988 to 1993, briefly in 1996, and then again from 2001 to 2003.
Her character was a trained actress with modest stage experience, who was introduced to Del Boy through a dating agency.
Despite initially being planned as a one-off character, Raquel became a significant part of the show’s narrative, bringing depth and warmth to the Trotter family dynamic.
Del Boy and Raquel — who he described as a “blinding bird” in one episode — went on to have a son, Damien, who was played by various child actors as he grew up.
But the classic 1996 Christmas Special, Heroes and Villains, Del’s brother Rodney (Nicholas Lyndhurst) had a nightmare about a dystopian future where Damien was an adult who ruled the Western world.
In the scene, Damien was played by Douglas Hodge — Tessa’s real-life partner at the time.
Her portrayal of Raquel endeared her to millions of viewers and cemented her place in British television history.
Acting portfolio
Beyond Only Fools and Horses, Tessa has demonstrated her talent and versatility as an actress through numerous notable television appearances:
- Grantchester (2014-present): Starring as Mrs Maguire, Tessa has become a fan favourite in this popular ITV detective drama set in the 1950s.
- Holby City (2001-16): Appearing in the show as Imelda Cousins, Maggie Latham and other characters, Tessa featured in nine episodes of the hospital drama over 15 years.
- Doctor Who (2013): Tessa featured in the 2013 Christmas special, adding the iconic sci-fi series to her impressive resume.
- Doctors (2009-11): She portrayed Sue Bond in the long-running BBC daytime soap.
- The Bill (1988-2001): Tessa played DCI Sharon Munson and other characters in three episodes of the iconic British cop programme.
- The Demon Headmaster (1996-98): She played Mrs Hunter in this creepy classic kids show.
- Pride and Prejudice (1995): In the BBC‘s adaptation of Jane Austen‘s classic novel, Tessa played Mary Bennet.
- The Animals of Farthing Wood (1993): She lent her voice to the character of Tawny Owl in this brutal but beloved animated series.
Her recent film work includes:
- I’m Not in Love (2021): Tessa played Mary LLoys in this romantic comedy.
- The Devil Went Down to Islington (2019): A British independent film where Tessa played the supporting role of Mrs Robertson.
- After Louise (2019): Another independent production, in which she played the character Bryony.
In 2019, Tessa showcased her musical talents by appearing on the ITV show All Star Musicals, where she sang Abba’s Mamma Mia from the musical.
This performance highlighted another facet of her artistic abilities, delighting fans who were accustomed to seeing her in dramatic roles.