Sir David Jason signs Century deal for new autobiography

Century has snapped up a third volume of autobiography by Sir David Jason, called A Del of a Life: Lessons I’ve Learned.

Publishing director Ben Brusey acquired world rights from agent Meg Poole for the book, to be released in hardback, audiobook and e-book on 29th October 2020, with an Arrow paperback the following year.

Released in his 80th year, A Del of a Life relives Jason's life and career from over 50 years in entertainment. “From a trainee electrician to one of Britain’s most revered and loved actors, Jason shares heartfelt and hilarious wisdom with readers on subjects ranging from family to work, resilience to ebullience,” the publisher explained. “Told with his characteristic warmth and wit, Jason shines a wonderful new light on the characters and shows that fans have come to love him for.”

Jason said: “I really enjoyed reminiscing over my long and varied career for my first two books, and it is rewarding to think that the readers will look forward to even more amusing stories and insights in A Del of a Life.”

The star's 2013 autobiography, My Life, won the 2013 National Specsavers Book of the Year award, and was followed up in 2018 by Only Fools and Stories. The books sold 758,410 copies through Nielsen BookScan UK, earning £6.85m.

Brusey added: “Humour is more important than ever in these difficult times. And who better to lift the nation’s spirits than Sir David Jason? This fantastic new book is every bit as funny, wise and poignant as Sir David’s greatest performances. I know it will delight readers this autumn, and will surely be one of the biggest books of the year.”