David Jason: Age, Net Worth, Wife, Family, Career and Legacy

Introduction

Sir David Jason is a figure to be respected and recognised in British television history. His journey spans over six decades, enchanting generations with his talent and charisma as a comedian, actor, and voice actor. In 2026, Jason is still celebrated in British culture: he is still most famous as Del Boy Trotter from the sitcom Only Fools and Horses and Detective Inspector Jack Frost from the TV-movie A Touch of Frost.

His impact goes far beyond TV screens—he’s 86 years old. His work continues to be broadcast on the networks and streamed on sites worldwide and his books, documentaries, and appearances continue to delight fans. From his age and net worth to his love life and legacy in television, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to know about David Jason in 2026.

Who Is David Jason?

David Jason was born David John White in Edmonton, North London on 2nd February 1940, and was not planning on being an actor. His stage name Jason was his father’s name because his twin brother, Jason White, died at birth.

David Jason Quick Facts

Prior to a career in the entertainment industry, Jason was an electrician and almost faced a life-threatening event when he was 19 years old. These early experiences have contributed to his practical nature which has endeared him to fans over the years.

In 2005 he was knighted by the UK Queen Elizabeth II for his services to drama and charity, making him Sir David Jason.

This is David Jason’s list of the most popular television roles he has played that defined British TV.

There aren’t many actors to boast about creating multiple iconic characters in TV, but David Jason has.

The series Only Fools and Horses (1981 – 2003) stars Del Boy Trotter.

Derek “Del Boy” Trotter is without a doubt Jason’s most popular role.

The affectionate market stall owner from Peckham became renowned for such slogans as:

• “Lovely jubbly!”
• “You plonker!”
• “If you want to be the first, you will be the winner.

The sitcom reached national proportions and in 1996 aired a Christmas special that was the most-watched sitcom episode in British television history, with a viewing of 24.3 million.

Jason’s performance earned him four BAFTA Awards, cementing Del Boy as one of television’s greatest comedy characters.

Detective Inspector Jack Frost – A Touch of Frost (1992–2010)

Jason was able to make a successful career change to become one of the drama stars, playing the role of DI Jack Frost.

He appeared in more than 42 episodes, during 18 years, as the lovable, yet brilliant, detective who could solve tricky cases with the compassion and instincts of a true professional.

The series was sold to more than 120 countries, showcasing Jason’s versatility beyond comedy.

Granville – Open All Hours, Still Open All Hours

Granville’s assistant, Ronnie Barker’s Arkwright, long-suffering assistant Jason performed yet another memorable act.

The original series ran from 1976 to 1985, with a revival of the show, Still Open All Hours, from 2013 to 2019.

With 12.2 million viewers, the 2013 Christmas special was a success – and the result shows that audiences still love Jason after 30 years!

Other prominent jobs include:

• The Darling Buds of May is by Pop Larkin.
• Voice of Danger Mouse is my name.My name is Danger Mouse.
• Voice of The BFG
• Skippy’s A Sharp Take-In of Breath.

The total worth of David Jason as of 2026 is $465,840,000.

David Jason’s net worth in 2026 is estimated to be above £50 million, thanks to his decades of television success, book sales and voice acting.

Major Sources of Income

Television Residuals

Shows such as:

• Only Fools and Horses
• A Touch of Frost
• Open All Hours

continue airing regularly on:

• Gold
• ITV3
• BritBox
• ITVX

The serials ensure a continuous income stream and maintain relevance to new viewers.

Bestselling Books

Jason has been a successful author.

He is the author of the most popular books of:

• My Life (2013)
• Only Fools and Stories (2017)
• A Del of a Life (2020)

Each became a best seller, and offered readers an inside look at his career.

Documentary Presenting

As well as successful factual programmes as fronted by Jason, he has played a starring role in:

• David Jason has written numerous books and earned numerous awards, including the Pulitzer Prize and the World Literature Prize.
• David Jason: The Battle of Britain
• David Jason’s Great British Inventions

Even though he was rich, Jason was known to lead a modest life. He once joked:

I’m a lot poorer than Del Boy thinks I am.

He has also made many charitable contributions to the Royal British Legion and children’s hospitals.

Or will David Jason still be around in 2026? Health and Retirement Updates

Many people online are wondering: “Is David Jason still acting in 2026?

He hasn’t officially retired, but his workload has predictably declined.

Recent Activities

• 2023: Presented David Jason’s Great British Inventions
• 2024: Voiceovers and narration for charities
• 2025: Featured in a special appearance at the BAFTA Television Awards and earned a standing ovation.

Obviously health has figured into his career choices.

In 2021, Jason had a hip replacement and couldn’t do as many difficult acting jobs.

In 2024, he spoke with Radio Times and shared his explanation:

Maybe he wouldn’t like to be conveyed off set. “I’ll know when to stop.

But fans have been hoping for just one more Only Fools and Horses reunion, and Jason has said many times:

One can’t make a better thing than the perfect one.

David Jason’s Wife, Daughter and Personal Life

Outside of the TV studio, David Jason appreciates privacy and family life.

Marriage and Family

• Wife: Gill Hinchcliffe
• Marriage Year: 2005
• Hobbies: Painting and drawing, gardening, and sewing

The couple has one daughter named:

• Sophie Mae Jason
• Born in 2001

Jason was fond of referring to his most significant achievement being becoming a father at the age of 61.

One time he called Sophie:

It was the best thing i ever did.

Prior to marrying Gill, Jason was wed to Welsh actress Myfanwy Talog who sadly died of cancer in 1995, after a marriage of 18 years.

Nowadays, he resides in a quiet life in Buckinghamshire and does not seem to be in the limelight that much.

Awards, Honors and Why David Jason is a National Treasure

David Jason’s career is a testament to his exceptional impact on British entertainment, evident in the numerous accolades he has amassed.

Significant awards and recognitions

• Winner of the four BAFTA TV Awards for Best actor
• British Comedy Awards Best TV Comedy (2002)
• Knighthood (2005)
• Special Recognition, National Television Award 2011

So, his influence is ongoing in 2026.

Notable milestones include:

• In 2024, Only Fools and Horses was voted Britain’s Favourite Sitcom by Radio Times.
• Del Boy statue first unveiled at Peckham in 2021
• David Jason marathon weekends are regular events on Gold TV channel.

Jason has been hailed by top comedians and actors such as James Corden, Peter Kay and Ricky Gervais as one of Britain’s finest TV talent.

You can read books and watch documentaries about David Jason in 2026, and you can watch it where?

David Jason’s work can still be enjoyed on several platforms, even by fans.

Best-Selling Books

Recommended Documentaries

• The Story of Only Fools and Horses
• David Jason: My Life on Screen
• David Jason: Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Streaming Platforms

BritBox

• Only Fools and Horses
• A Touch of Frost
• The Darling Buds of May

ITVX

• Still Open All Hours
• David Jason documentaries

BBC iPlayer

• Open All Hours
• Danger Mouse

There are three interesting facts about David Jason that most fans don’t know.

1. Before he started acting, he was an electrician.

Before becoming a TV star, Jason was a qualified electrician who almost had a fatal accident on the job.

2. He Turned Down Minder

Often forgotten about is how Jason turned down to play Minder to take his career in the direction of Only Fools and Horses.

3. He’s a Licensed Pilot.

Jason is an avid enthusiast of the things that fly and is a qualified pilot who has regularly flown himself to film locations.

Conclusion

86 in 2026, Sir David Jason is still one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers. His characters are part of the country’s cultural landscape from the memorable Del Boy Trotter to the relentless DI Jack Frost. He is still inspiring people of all ages as an actor, comedian, author, voice over artist, and TV icon. David Jason’s career lasted over 60 years, his net worth is over £50 million and he has garnered numerous awards and millions of loyal fans. In 2026 and beyond, Britain’s most-loved actor is bringing smiles to the faces of audiences, whether on classic sitcom reruns, through bestselling books, or in documentary appearances.

FAQ

Who is David Jason?

David Jason was born David John White in Edmonton, North London on 2nd February 1940, and is one of Britain’s most famous actors, comedians, and voice actors.

How old is David Jason in 2026?

Age in 2026: 86 Years Old.

What is David Jason best known for?

He is best known for playing Del Boy Trotter in Only Fools and Horses and Detective Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost.

What is David Jason’s estimated net worth in 2026?

David Jason’s net worth in 2026 is estimated to be above £50 million.

Who is David Jason’s wife?

Wife: Gill Hinchcliffe.

Does David Jason have children?

Yes. The couple has one daughter named Sophie Mae Jason, born in 2001.

Is David Jason retired in 2026?

He hasn’t officially retired, but his workload has predictably declined.

Where can fans watch David Jason’s shows?

Fans can watch his work on:

• BritBox
• ITVX
• BBC iPlayer
• Gold
• ITV3