"From Fame in 'Only Fools And Horses' to Life in a Caravan: My Journey from Stardom to Caring - OK! Magazine"
Only Fools And Horses served as a launchpad for many of its stars, including Nicolas Lyndhurst and Sir David Jason. But one actor from the beloved sitcom decided to swap the glitz and glamour of fame for a completely different career path.
The iconic BBC show, which centred around the hilarious escapades of Del Boy Trotter and his brother Rodney as they concocted various schemes to strike it rich, captured the hearts of fans not just in the UK but globally. The show's popularity peaked in 1996 when nearly 17 million viewers tuned in for the Christmas special.
Daniel Peacock has now opened up about his stint on the show and his decision to step away from the limelight in search of something more rewarding. Peacock portrayed the endearing character Mental Mickey in a memorable episode of Only Fools back in 1985.
In addition to this, Daniel had acting roles in other hit shows such as Birds of a Feather, One Foot in the Grave and the original run of Doctor Who. But before he found success on screen, the actor discovered his passion for helping others while working in the lifestyles team at a local care home, reports the Daily Star.
His decision was also influenced by his father Trevor's dementia diagnosis, which led Daniel to become his carer. Daniel discovered a newfound passion for caring while looking after his dad, and he's now taking his experience to new heights. After wrapping up the second series of his UKTV comedy Marley's Ghosts and finding himself with some spare time, he decided to apply for a job at a care home.
In a candid chat with MyLondon, Daniel shared his journey away from fame: 'I bought a caravan in Kent as I thought I really wanted to get some solitude and I've always loved holiday parks. So there I am in my caravan writing every now and then, enjoying no pressure and stress.'
He continued, revealing his unexpected TV habits: '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.'
Despite his initial uncertainty about re-entering the workforce, Daniel's son Charlie helped him land a role at Hastings Court nursing home. While Daniel hasn't completely abandoned TV work, he's significantly scaled back, dedicating most of his time to the residents at the care home.
'A lot of the residents have lived history, during and at the end of the war so you bond with people here,' Daniel added. 'My dad died of that horrible disease but working here has made me a better person.'