Mollie Rose Hodge may not be a household name in the entertainment industry, but her life story is deeply connected to two of Britain’s most recognized actors — Douglas Hodge and Tessa Peake-Jones. As the daughter of these acclaimed performers, Mollie has grown up surrounded by the arts, television culture, and public attention. While she has chosen a career outside of acting, her background, upbringing, and family connections make her an intriguing figure for those interested in British television history, especially for fans of Only Fools and Horses.
This article explores Mollie Rose Hodge’s life, family relationships, education, and personal pursuits, along with in-depth details about her parents’ celebrated careers.
Early Life of Mollie Rose Hodge
Mollie Rose Hodge was born in 2000 in England to Douglas Hodge and Tessa Peake-Jones. She grew up with one sibling, Charlie Hodge, and was raised in a family where art, drama, and theatre were a part of daily life.
Her parents’ careers meant she was often surrounded by creative discussions, stage scripts, and the behind-the-scenes reality of British theatre and television. However, unlike many children of actors, Mollie has chosen to remain relatively private and avoid the spotlight.
Family Background and Parents
Douglas Hodge – Acclaimed Actor, Director, and Musician
Born on February 25, 1960 in Plymouth, Devon, Douglas Hodge has enjoyed a remarkable career in theatre, television, and film. Known for his versatility, he has won numerous awards, including an Olivier Award and a Tony Award for his role in La Cage aux Folles.
His career spans decades, with appearances in productions like:
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Joker (2019)
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Penny Dreadful
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The Great
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Robin Hood (2010)
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Diana (2013)
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Catastrophe
Douglas also has a unique connection to Only Fools and Horses. In the 1996 special “Heroes and Villains,” he played the adult version of Damien Trotter, the son of Raquel Turner — who was portrayed by his real-life partner at the time, Tessa Peake-Jones. This unusual blending of on-screen fiction and real-life romance remains a memorable piece of TV trivia for fans.
Tessa Peake-Jones – The Beloved Raquel Turner
Tessa Peake-Jones, born on May 9, 1957 in Hammersmith, London, is best known for her portrayal of Raquel Turner in Only Fools and Horses from 1988 to 2003. Her career spans stage and television, with notable appearances in:
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Grantchester
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Pride and Prejudice (1980)
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The Animals of Farthing Wood (voice role)
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Up the Garden Path
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Doctor Who
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Midsomer Murders
Tessa met Douglas Hodge in the mid-1980s, and they enjoyed a long relationship lasting nearly 29 years before amicably separating in 2013.
Charlie Hodge – Mollie’s Brother
Mollie’s only sibling, Charlie Hodge, shares the same parents. While Charlie also keeps a low profile, he is sometimes mentioned in relation to his parents’ careers and public appearances. Both Charlie and Mollie are part of the close-knit family unit that Tessa and Douglas have maintained despite their separation.
Education and Career Path of Mollie Rose Hodge
Rather than stepping into acting or following her parents onto the stage, Mollie Rose Hodge has chosen a different professional route.
She earned a BA in Sociology from the University of Birmingham before pursuing an MSc in Forensic Mental Health. Currently, she is training to become a child and adolescent psychotherapist at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust in London. Her career path reflects a dedication to mental health, social care, and working with young people, far removed from the world of celebrity.
This decision highlights Mollie’s individuality and her desire to make an impact in a field that focuses on helping others rather than public recognition.
Relationship Between Douglas Hodge and Tessa Peake-Jones
Douglas Hodge and Tessa Peake-Jones were one of British theatre’s most admired couples. They met in 1984, both being actors immersed in London’s theatre scene. Over nearly three decades together, they supported each other’s careers while raising their two children, Mollie and Charlie.
Their separation in 2013 was amicable, and they have remained committed to co-parenting. Tessa has spoken in interviews about the importance of maintaining stability and family connection for their children despite the change in relationship status.
The Only Fools and Horses Connection
The connection between Douglas Hodge and Only Fools and Horses is a fascinating side note in British TV history. While Tessa Peake-Jones was a central figure in the series as Raquel Turner, Douglas appeared in a cameo as an adult Damien Trotter in the 1996 special. The unusual fact that he played the on-screen son of his real-life partner’s character delighted fans and remains a piece of trivia often mentioned in fan discussions.
Public and Media Attention
While Douglas and Tessa have had significant media coverage throughout their careers, they have generally kept their children out of the public eye. Mollie Rose Hodge, in particular, has remained private, with only occasional mentions in interviews or family features.
Her decision to pursue a mental health profession rather than acting suggests that she values privacy, independence, and professional identity outside her parents’ fame.
Legacy and Influence of Her Parents
Growing up with parents who are both respected in the entertainment industry has undoubtedly shaped Mollie’s perspective on life. She has seen firsthand the dedication, discipline, and creativity required for a successful acting career, but she has also likely observed the challenges of public life.
By choosing a completely different career path, Mollie demonstrates that children of celebrities can forge their own way while maintaining pride in their family heritage.
Conclusion
Mollie Rose Hodge stands as a quiet but fascinating figure in the shadow of two of Britain’s most recognized actors — Douglas Hodge and Tessa Peake-Jones. With her brother Charlie, she is part of a family deeply tied to British television history, particularly through Only Fools and Horses. Yet Mollie’s life is defined not by fame, but by her commitment to mental health care and helping children.
In an era when many celebrity children seek the limelight, Mollie’s choice to focus on a grounded and service-oriented career speaks volumes about her values and priorities. She embodies a balance between acknowledging her rich family heritage and pursuing her own life’s purpose.
