Jim Broadbent played Roy Slater, the slimy, weaselly police officer from the Trotter’s past. If you’ve seen the show, you’ll know Del Boy’s old schoolmate was a walking disaster—a snitch, a cheat, and eventually a conman.
What’s brilliant is how Broadbent plays Slater with zero charm. He’s not funny like Del; he’s funny because he’s so painfully smarmy.
You almost feel sorry for him, until you remember he’s the guy who tried to frame the Trotters for a diamond heist. Then you just laugh.
A Role You Almost Miss
Slater only appears in two episodes: “May the Force Be with You” and “The Russians Are Coming.” But Broadbent makes every second count. He brings this pinched, nasal voice and a permanent sneer that screams, “I’m better than you, and I know it.”
It’s a masterclass in playing the villain you love to hate. And honestly? It’s a miracle he wasn’t asked back more often.
Maybe the writers thought he was too good—too threatening for a sitcom. Or maybe they knew we needed a break from his smug face.
