The Inbetweeners star James Buckley's wife Clair says he is still going to the pub – despite saying he's given up drinking. The 38-year-old confirmed he has been diagnosed with a genetic condition after undergoing a routine health check. He decided to get checked over after Clair was taken to hospital in an ambulance suffering from severe dehydration.
Health scare prompts lifestyle change
James asked doctors for a blood test after issues were flagged up. He revealed on the latest episode of The Buckleys that he is at risk of a cardiovascular incident due to having a genetically inherited type of blood cholesterol called Lipoprotein(a) – a condition said to affect around one in five people. After hearing the news, James has had to give up drinking and was told to cut down on takeaways, but it is clear he is struggling if Clair's comments are anything to go by.
Clair's revelation on Radio X
Clair was a guest on The Chris Moyles Show on Radio X today, and it seems that the TV star hasn't been able to totally swerve drinking. When Chris asked how James is dealing with his new lifestyle, she said: "He still drinks! He did knock it on the head for a little while but he still goes to the pub."
James's own admission
James said on his show: "I've also had health problems as well. It's something to do with my Lipoprotein(a), something to do with that. There's nothing you can do about it, by the way. And the doctor's just been like: 'You need to change'." He admitted it has made him rethink his lifestyle choices and added he is "a high risk now for a cardiovascular incident" and said: "My heart, my arteries. I'm not a religious man, but sometimes I feel like there is a God that sort of goes 'that'll teach you'. I feel like I've been on this podcast slagging people off that don't drink. Yeah, we have boring stuff. And now I've been told to try not [laughter] in rein it in." Despite revealing his current alcohol ban, he did admit: "I'm going to have a beer soon!"
There are typically no physical symptoms until a cardiovascular event occurs. The condition leads to faster plaque buildup in arteries. It also increases inflammation and increases the risk of blood clotting.
Inbetweeners reboot talks
Talks are said to be advancing to bring back iconic sitcom The Inbetweeners, in which James starred as Jay. Last month, it was reported that Netflix bosses are eager to sign Emily Atack for a reboot of the classic sitcom, which is set to delight fans when it returns to the streaming giant. The three other main stars Simon Bird (Will McKenzie), Joe Thomas (Simon Cooper) and Blake Harrison (Neil Sutherland) are expected to reprise their roles.
