Sir David Jason, the Del Boy we all know and love, has left fans in a mix of concern and chuckles. Cancelling his appearance at the much-anticipated Only Fools and Horses convention this autumn, the legend has given a quirky health update: he’s off to get “a new bionic body part fitted”. Whatever this part might be, he’s certainly got our attention!
This iconic actor, who dazzled British audiences as the market trader Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter on Only Fools and Horses from 1981 until 2003, is 83 and still adored by millions. The show, a BBC classic, has immortalised Jason and his on-screen brother Nicholas Lyndhurst (Rodney Trotter) in the chronicles of British comedy.
Not one to keep things too serious, Jason amused fans with his recent Facebook statement. Although keeping the exact nature of his surgery under wraps, he stated:
“I am so very sorry for the disappointment and all the inconvenience it may cause but we are having to change the date of the forthcoming Only Fools and Horses Convention.
“Unfortunately I have just been advised I need a new bionic body part fitted. I won’t tell you which part it is, or you will all want one! And don’t worry it’s not being supplied by Monkey Harris, it’ll be the pukka gear.
“I really hope everyone will be able to make the new date (January 13th and 14th) and we can all have something cushty to look forward to! These events are such an enjoyable celebration for myself and the rest of the Only Fools cast, and it is such a privilege to meet so many of you, but I want to do it with the smile on my face I always have had.”
“Once again, please accept my sincere apologies as it was not a decision I took at all lightly and I hope that you understand my situation. All cushty wishes until then.”
The change might dishearten fans, but the new convention dates are set: January 13th and 14th, 2023 at the DoubleTree By Hilton in Milton Keynes. The official announcement has also been made on the Only Fools and Horses Appreciation Society Convention website.
For all the fans and attendees, the delay might be a minor inconvenience, but it ensures the grandeur and excitement of the event remain intact. And with Sir David Jason’s cheeky statement, he’s ensured that the comedic spirit of Del Boy lives on, both on and off-screen. So, until January, “All cushty wishes!”