At almost 90, Sir David Jason remains one of Britain’s most cherished television stars, forever ᴀssociated with the quick-witted Del Boy Trotter from Only Fools and Horses. But in October 2022, the beloved actor shared a deeply personal account of a frightening health experience that left fans concerned about just how seriously ill he had been.

Jason revealed that a severe bout of COVID-19 had left him so weak that he collapsed while getting out of bed during the night. Unable to stand, he struggled to move towards the door in the hope of reaching someone who could help him.

His account was first shared publicly during an interview with BBC Breakfast in October 2022, when he was 82. Although the story has resurfaced online, it is important to clarify that the incident happened several years ago and is not evidence of a new health emergency.

A sudden collapse during a serious bout of COVID-19

Jason explained that he had managed to avoid COVID-19 through much of the pandemic before contracting the virus in July 2022.

The illness affected him severely. During the night, when he got out of bed to go to the bathroom, he became so physically weak that he collapsed against a radiator.

“I got it seriously bad,” he recalled, describing how his muscles seemed unable to support him.

He tried to use the bed to help himself stand, but he could not regain his footing. For around 15 minutes, he attempted to find a way to get back up, only to realise how little strength he had at that moment.

For someone audiences had spent decades watching bring laughter into their homes, the experience revealed a much more vulnerable side of the familiar television personality.

His struggle to reach help

When Jason realised he could not stand, he tried to find another way to reach the door and call for ᴀssistance.

His arms and legs were not working as he needed them to, so he began moving along the floor in an unusual way. Recalling the experience, he compared his movements to a walrus crawling on land.

His determination to reach the door reflected how difficult even a simple task had become during the illness.

Then, just as he reached the doorway, the door opened. His wife, Gill Hinchcliffe, had returned home and was able to help him back into bed.

Jason later discovered carpet burns across his forehead and the top of his nose as a result of the ordeal.

The story was distressing, but his account also showed the importance of support from loved ones when a serious illness leaves someone unable to manage ordinary activities independently.

The health scare that worried fans

The actor’s recollection resonated with viewers because he spoke openly about the severity of the illness rather than simply saying he had been unwell.

His description of suddenly losing his strength offered a glimpse into an experience that was far removed from the comic confidence of Del Boy, the character that made him a household name.

However, reports published at the time said Jason subsequently recovered from that bout of COVID-19. The resurfacing of his story should not be mistaken for confirmation that he has recently collapsed or is currently facing the same medical problem.

No new health emergency is established by the account provided here.

The man behind one of Britain’s best-loved characters

Jason’s career has spanned decades, with memorable roles in Only Fools and Horses, Open All Hours and A Touch of Frost.

His portrayal of Derek “Del Boy” Trotter became a landmark in British comedy, earning him a lasting place in the hearts of television audiences. His ability to combine sharp humour with warmth helped make the sitcom a favourite across generations.

His story about COVID-19 offered a different perspective on the actor. Away from the cameras, he had experienced a frightening period in which his physical strength failed him and he needed help from someone close to him.

For fans, that honesty made the account especially moving.

A reminder of the importance of loved ones

At the heart of Jason’s story is the moment his wife arrived and helped him back into bed. After struggling to reach the door, he was no longer alone.

His experience is a reminder that serious illness can affect people unexpectedly and that support from family and friends can make a meaningful difference during difficult moments.

Sir David Jason has given audiences decades of laughter through his unforgettable performances. By sharing his experience, he also revealed a deeply human side of his life—one marked by vulnerability, resilience and the relief of receiving help when it was needed.

For the many viewers who continue to admire him, his account remains a powerful recollection of a difficult period, rather than evidence of a newly reported tragedy.

Sources

• BBC News — Sir David Jason describes his COVID-19 collapse, October 2022