Tessa Peake-Jones is a renowned British actress celebrated for her long-standing contributions to British television, particularly her role as Raquel Turner in the legendary sitcom Only Fools and Horses. Born on 9 May 1957 in Hammersmith, London, Peake-Jones trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, launching a career that would span over four decades. Her performances have ranged from period dramas to contemporary comedies, cementing her status as one of Britain’s most versatile and enduring screen talents.
Tessa Peake-Jones Biography Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tessa Peake-Jones |
| Date of Birth | 9 May 1957 |
| Birthplace | Hammersmith, London, UK |
| Profession | Actress |
| Years Active | 1978–present |
| Partner | Douglas Hodge (1984–2013) |
| Children | 2 (including Mollie Rose Hodge) |
| Famous For | Only Fools and Horses, Grantchester |
| Net Worth (Estimate) | $2–3 million / £2 million |
| Training | Royal Central School of Speech and Drama |
Early Life and Education
Raised in the heart of London, Peake-Jones displayed an early interest in acting. After completing secondary education, she attended the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, where she received rigorous theatrical training. This foundation prepared her for a seamless entry into professional acting in the late 1970s, where she began earning roles in stage and television productions.
Tessa Peake-Jones Young: Early Roles and Rise to Fame
Peake-Jones began her career in the late 1970s, with her first significant television role coming in “The Danedyke Mystery” (1979). She gained further exposure in the early 1980s through roles in “Pride and Prejudice” (1980) and “The Bell” (1982). Her poised demeanor and expressive range earned her credibility and set her apart as a compelling character actress.
However, it was her portrayal of Raquel Turner, Del Boy’s partner in Only Fools and Horses, that truly transformed her career. Introduced in 1988, Raquel was initially hired as a singing telegram and evolved into one of the show’s central characters. Peake-Jones’s chemistry with co-star David Jason, along with her warm yet spirited performance, turned Raquel into a household name across Britain.
Partner: Douglas Hodge (1984–2013)
Tessa Peake-Jones shared a long-term relationship with actor Douglas Hodge from 1984 to 2013. Though they never officially married, the couple lived together for nearly three decades and had two children, including their daughter Mollie Rose Hodge and son Charlie Hodge. Interestingly, in an odd twist of casting fate, Douglas Hodge once played her on-screen son in a 1996 Only Fools and Horses special—an ironic moment for those who knew their real-life partnership.
Douglas Hodge is himself a celebrated British actor, known for his work on stage and screen, including Broadway and West End productions.
Children: Mollie Rose Hodge
Tessa and Douglas have two children, the most publicly known being Mollie Rose Hodge. Although Mollie has largely stayed away from the media limelight, her name surfaces in connection with her famous parents. Tessa has kept her family life relatively private, choosing to raise her children away from the public scrutiny of the entertainment world.
Career Highlights: Tessa Peake-Jones Movies and TV Shows
Only Fools and Horses (1988–2003)
Tessa’s iconic role in this classic sitcom remains the cornerstone of her legacy. Her character Raquel is widely remembered for bringing warmth, stability, and a female presence to the otherwise male-dominated cast. She appeared in numerous episodes, from her debut in “Dates” (1988) to the final trilogy aired in 2001–2003.
Grantchester (2014–2024)
More recently, Tessa has been a core cast member of the hit ITV series Grantchester, portraying Mrs. Chapman, the housekeeper with a strong moral compass. Her role spans across multiple seasons and showcases her command over dramatic roles.
Other Notable Appearances
- The Animals of Farthing Wood (1993–1995) – voiced Tawny Owl
- Doctors (2004, 2015) – various guest roles
- Holby City (2007, 2012)
- Midsomer Murders (2008)
- Unforgotten (2015) – supporting role in the acclaimed drama
- Poppy Shakespeare (2008) – psychological drama
Tessa Peake-Jones’s versatility is evident from her extensive and diverse TV career that spans sitcoms, voice acting, crime dramas, and period pieces.
Tessa Peake-Jones Now: Current Status
As of 2025, Tessa Peake-Jones is still active in the entertainment industry, though she has slowed down compared to her earlier decades. Her last major role was in Grantchester, which ended in 2024. Though she may not be a frequent face on screen anymore, she remains a respected name in British television circles. Fans often express admiration for her authenticity, longevity, and consistent performances across genres.
She occasionally makes guest appearances at fan conventions, award shows, and charity events but largely maintains a private and low-profile lifestyle.
Tessa Peake-Jones Net Worth
Tessa Peake-Jones’s long career has earned her both acclaim and financial security. While exact figures vary, estimates place her net worth at $2–3 million (USD), or approximately £2 million. Much of this stems from her recurring roles in iconic British TV series, along with royalties from re-broadcasts of Only Fools and Horses, which continues to be immensely popular in the UK and abroad.
Tessa Peake-Jones Husband: Was She Married?
Although she lived in a marital-style partnership with Douglas Hodge for nearly 30 years, the couple never legally married. Despite this, many fans and media outlets have referred to Hodge as her husband due to the nature and longevity of their relationship. Their split in 2013 was described as amicable, with both continuing to co-parent their children.
Tessa Peake-Jones: Legacy and Impact
Tessa Peake-Jones holds a special place in the hearts of British TV lovers. Her portrayal of Raquel made her a national sweetheart, and her role in Grantchester cemented her reputation as a seasoned character actress. She has managed to maintain a stable career without relying on tabloid publicity or controversy—a rare feat in the entertainment industry.
Her approach to acting has always been grounded and naturalistic, allowing audiences to emotionally connect with her characters. Whether she was bringing warmth to a sitcom or stern morality to a mystery drama, Peake-Jones has shown unmatched range and reliability.
Final Thoughts
Tessa Peake-Jones remains an enduring figure in British entertainment. From her unforgettable role as Raquel Turner in Only Fools and Horses to her recent years on Grantchester, she has showcased immense range and subtle brilliance in her performances. Her dedication to craft over celebrity, and her quiet yet influential legacy, mark her as a true icon of British television.
Whether you remember her from her sitcom days or recognize her more recent dramatic work, there’s no denying that Tessa Peake-Jones’s career is one of remarkable resilience and grace.
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