Sir David Jason, the beloved actor who brought Del Boy Trotter to life in Only Fools and Horses, celebrates his 86th birthday today, marking an extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to national treasure status. Born David John White in Edmonton, North London in 1940, his father worked as a porter at Billingsgate Fish Market while his mother served as a maid, creating a working-class background that would later inform his most famous character.
From Electrician to Actor: The Early Struggles
Despite harbouring acting ambitions from an early age, Sir David's father insisted he learn a practical trade first. He completed a six-year apprenticeship as an electrician before courageously abandoning the profession to pursue his theatrical dreams. During his younger years, he accepted whatever opportunities arose, ranging from children's programmes to radio comedies, gradually building his experience while facing significant professional challenges.
Years of Rejection and Perseverance
Throughout the initial fifteen years of his career, Sir David found it remarkably difficult to secure leading roles. He was famously rejected by Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em executives who claimed he lacked 'star quality', with BBC producers reportedly stating he was 'only funny in supporting roles'. Undeterred by this harsh assessment, he continued with West End appearances while featuring in major productions including Open All Hours and Porridge, steadily building his reputation within the industry.
The Fateful Meeting with Nicholas Lyndhurst
It was during this period that Sir David first crossed paths with his future Only Fools and Horses colleague Nicholas Lyndhurst, five years prior to the show's creation. In 1976, Sir David, then 36 years old, appeared in an ITV series called Lucky Feller, portraying the lead character Shorty Mopstead. During promotional activities, he was invited to appear on the LWT Kids morning chat show Our Show, where his youthful presenter turned out to be a bright-eyed 15-year-old Nicholas Lyndhurst.
This fortuitous meeting would prove historic when, in 1981, the duo reunited to portray Del and Rodney Trotter, creating one of television's most beloved partnerships. Sir David was 41 years old when finally cast as Del Boy, proving that persistence and talent could overcome earlier rejections and age barriers in the entertainment industry.
Personal Tragedy and Heartbreak
Beyond his professional life, Sir David experienced profound personal tragedy during his relationship with Welsh actress Myfanwy Talog. The couple were together for eighteen years when heartbreak struck with a devastating breast cancer diagnosis. Recalling the heartbreaking moment the diagnosis was confirmed, Sir David said: 'You can imagine: tears. It was terrible. She had a specialist who said she should have an operation to remove her breast because radiotherapy wasn't going to shrink the cancer on its own.'
He described this period as 'a whole new reality to get used to' and 'a very stressful time, a terrible, difficult emotional time'. Sir David cared for Myfanwy throughout her treatment until she passed away in 1995, an experience that marked him deeply during what should have been a period of professional triumph following Only Fools and Horses' success.
Late Fatherhood and New Beginnings
In 2001, Sir David welcomed his first child at the age of 61 with his partner Gill Hinchcliffe, demonstrating that personal happiness could be found after profound loss. They christened their daughter Sophie Mae, and Sir David and Gill subsequently wed in 2005. The couple continue to enjoy a happy marriage and live in Ellesborough, Buckinghamshire, where Sir David has found domestic contentment alongside his professional achievements.
Beyond Acting: Unique Interests and Philanthropy
Beyond his acting career, Sir David pursues some remarkable interests that reflect his adventurous spirit. He holds a helicopter pilot's licence, demonstrating his love for aviation and new challenges. Additionally, he serves as a patron of the Shark Trust, an organisation dedicated to safeguarding sharks globally, showing his commitment to environmental conservation and marine protection.
Sir David Jason's journey from electrician to national treasure, overcoming both professional rejection and personal tragedy, stands as a testament to resilience, talent, and the possibility of finding happiness and success at any stage of life. As he celebrates his 86th birthday, his legacy as Del Boy remains secure in British cultural history, while his personal story continues to inspire those facing their own challenges and rejections.
