Sir David Jason, 84 shares sacrifice he’s had to make thanks to health woes: ‘Increasingly uncomfortable’
Sir David Jason has explained he has had to give up his pilot licence for health reasons.
The Only Fools and Horses legend, 84, got the licence in 2005, but has had to stop the exciting hobby.
Jason, who starred in the classic sitcom Only Fools as Derek “Del Boy” Trotter from its debut in 1981 to the last episode, a Christmas Special, in 2003.
He impressed fans by getting his pilot licence nearly 20 years ago and would regularly take to the skies in his Robinson R44 helicopter.
However, following his hip replacement surgery, he decided to give up the pastime.
He admitted he had become “increasingly uncomfortable in the air” due to his hips, knees and legs.
Detailing further health conditions, he told the Sunday Times: “My memory isn’t what it used to be…
“Most of us reach this point when things aren’t quite as bright as they used to be.”
However, focusing on the positives in his health, he continued: “Mind you, I don’t wear a hearing aid, I don’t wear glasses, and I’ve only had to replace one bit of my body [a hip replacement], so I’m not doing too bad, thank you.”
Jason also detailed his recent experience with empty nest syndrome as his daughter Sophie-Mae recently moved out to live with her boyfriend.
His only child with wife Gill Honchcliffe, her absence has been felt by the actor.
“There’s been a loss and a change,” he admitted, telling the publication: “Now I can get into her bedroom without needing a bulldozer to clear the route.
“She was never the tidiest of little people but, having said that, yeah we do miss her. We miss not having an empty fridge!”
In a recent life-twist for the beloved 84-year-old, Jason also recently found out he is the father of actress Abi Harris, 53.
He found out two years ago after she reached out with her suspicions about who her dad could be.
“It was very nerve-racking, but we got over that and have been working and building a relationship ever since,” he explained.
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“Abi was only here about a week ago. We had a birthday party for her and her lad [son Charlie].
“I’m not a great game player, but that’s all Charlie loves to.
“Him and my wife and daughter, as soon as they get here, they sit around the table, get the games out, and they’re off.”