Movies

Sir David Jason reveals which famous actors he blamed for his Hollywood film career not working out

BBG News

As a seasoned actor myself, I can deeply empathize with David Jason’s sentiments. Like him, I too have had the fortune of creating a beloved character that has become synonymous with my name. However, much like Del Boy’s unshakable belief in finding ‘this time it’s for real,’ I, too, understand the desire to break free from the shadow cast by iconic roles and explore new horizons.

According to Sir David Jason, he believes that Michael Caine and Jim Broadbent may have hindered his ability to make a mark in Hollywood by the time he was 84 years old.

In a different phrasing, the well-known actor, aged 84, who became famous for portraying Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter in Only Fools and Horses, aspired to leave a mark on the silver screen as well.

However, upon attending the discussions about the two significant positions under consideration, it turned out later that those roles had been assigned to Michael and Jim instead.

Initially, Jim tried out for the part of Del Boy, but eventually declined because he had theater obligations, only to find himself in a surprising turn of events where the role ultimately went to someone else instead.

When discussing his aspirations for the big screen, David expressed his desire by saying: “It would be a delight if I could one day proudly state that my body of work in films is beautifully compiled on DVD, creating a sophisticated collection of cinematic moments to explore during an evening.

Although it appears quite intriguing, I’m concerned it might resemble items found in an old storage box dug up from beneath a flea market table.

David had opportunities to appear in two upcoming films in the year 2023: “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” and “The Great Escaper”.

Jim won the role in the former while Michael secured a part in the latter. 

In “The Great Escaper”, Michael portrayed an elderly veteran from the Dunkirk War, who made a daring escape from his retirement home to participate in the 70th anniversary celebrations held in France.

In penning my heartfelt memoir titled “This Time Next Year,” I penned down my fervent dreams: ‘I envisioned myself, not a resident in that nursing home, but instead, on an exhilarating quest to reunite with my Dunkirk comrades. It’s the allure of hope that can be as lethal as any weapon.’

Recently, David openly expressed his genuine remorse about the character he portrayed on Only Fools and Horses, and admitted that this role continues to linger in his thoughts, like a lingering specter.

In an open conversation on BBC Breakfast with Jon Kay, the 84-year-old actor shared sincerely that his iconic role has eclipsed the recognition of his other professional accomplishments.

David shared with the program that he believes the spirit or essence of Derek Trotter seems to be shadowing him, and he described it as a lingering presence that hovers above him.

He mentioned that Derek Trotter is somewhat like a spectral figure who appears after him, much like the ghostly visitors in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.

The star expressed frustration that despite a decades-long career in film and television he is most know for playing Del Boy. 

As a devoted follower, I’d express it this way: “I find myself being held back and experiencing minor inconveniences primarily because it appears that this is the one aspect people tend to recall about me.

I’m thrilled to see how far my work has spread and that people seem to appreciate the character development, yet it feels a bit disheartening as so much of my other work seems to be overshadowed by it. It’s almost like I’ve been defined solely by the role of Derek Trotter.

David shared that although he’s content with his professional journey, there are numerous milestones yet unattained. He attributes this to constantly feeling the presence of his most legendary role.

The star explained: ‘My real disappointment or regret, if you like, is I always wanted to be a National Theatre player. 

‘I always wanted to be on the stage of the National Theatre. It was just that romantic image of playing those big productions with all those big, wonderful actors. That never happened.’

As an ardent admirer, I found myself on the edge of my seat when our beloved host, Jon, hinted there might be room for him to fulfill his dream of performing live. Yet, when Jason spoke up, he shared a poignant moment, expressing that perhaps his time had slipped away like grains of sand, as his memory, once sharp and vibrant, was no longer what it used to be.

He mentioned, “I’m wondering if my old memory is still up to the task. I can manage it using teleprompters.

Instead of appearing to shed his somber demeanor, he jovially addressed the camera, exclaiming: “Hey! Absolutely, I’m ready for the National Theatre!

His admission comes after the star revealed he would take up his famous role again. 

At the beginning of this year, David expressed his readiness to play Del Boy once more. However, he mentioned that a remake might not happen due to the unfortunate passing of John Sullivan, the primary writer behind the successful TV series, who died in 2011.

He expressed to The Sun his desire for a possible reboot, stating, “Truthfully, we are keen on this idea as we ourselves found it incredibly enjoyable, and it seems that the majority of the British audience felt the same way. Consequently, we are eager to bring it back.

But he added: ‘I don’t think we could do another episode of Only Fools And Horses because the brains behind it, Mr John Sullivan, is unfortunately no longer with us.’ 

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2024-10-15 11:23

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