ONLY Fools and Horses actor Daniel Peacock has traded in appearances on the telly for a brand new career.
Legendary sitcom Only Fools and Horses burst on to TV screens in 1981 and lasted on BBC until 2003 but is still a staple on UK Gold.
It showcased the comedy capers of Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter and his brother Rodney and it soon became a national treasure showcasing the pair’s various escapades in their quest to become millionaires.
It launched the careers of Sir David Jason (Del Boy) Nicolas Lyndhurst (Rodney) as well as a host of supporting actors, one of whom was the loveable ‘Mental Mickey’ played by Daniel Peacock.
He appeared in one episode in 1985 as the frontman of Rodney’s band A Bunch of Wallies and created a lasting impression on viewers.
During the memorable episode, Mickey tears up the stage showing his unique personality during practice.
Del then becomes their manager and gets them a gig at the Shamrock Club – which subsequently ends in the Peckham riots.
Del and Rodney escape the scene only to realise they’ve left Mickey behind in the heat of the action.
David went on to work on two seasons of UKTV comedy series Marley’s Ghosts but he decided to swap acting for a more rewarding career when his father Trevor was diagnosed with dementia.
As he spent more time caring for his father, he decided to apply to his local care home working in the lifestyles team.
Almost 40 years on from his cameo in Only Fools, he is now living a quieter life working for Hastings Court nursing home and he has also bought a caravan in Kent to get some ‘peace and quiet’.
He said in an interview: “I started watching TV programs I’ve never watched before in my life, not the greatest but they were on TV.
“Then my son Charlie said ‘Dad you’re watching way too much television‘ and suggested I get a job.”
Although he has not completely bid farewell to television his main focus is on caring for the residents at the care home.
Watch Only Fools and Horses on UK Gold.
