Si King, one half of the renowned cooking duo the Hairy Bikers, shared his emotional journey of grieving the loss of his close friend and co-host, Dave Myers. King revealed that the “Dave Day” event, a 30-mile motorcycle ride held in memory of Myers, provided him and fans with a sense of “permission” to begin the grieving process. This heartfelt tribute culminated in a one-hour special titled “The Hairy Bikers: You’ll Never Ride Alone,” which aired on BBC Two on December 23 at 9 pm.
Myers passed away at the age of 66 in February following a battle with cancer. In an interview with the PA news agency, King expressed the significance of commemorating their 32-year friendship and 23 years of working together. The decision to create the documentary came as a way to honour Myers’ life and legacy. King remarked that the event not only allowed for collective mourning but also served as a celebration of Myers’ vibrant personality and the cherished moments they shared on television.
As King delved into collating footage for the special programme, he found himself immersed in a sea of nostalgia, reminiscing about their extensive global travels and the enduring bond they shared. Recalling the multitude of experiences they encountered together, King reflected on the emotional intensity of compiling the documentary and the challenges he faced while providing the voiceover. Despite the poignant moments, King highlighted the importance of celebrating Myers’ exuberant spirit and zest for life.
Throughout the documentary, King aimed to impart to viewers the essence of living in the present and embracing joy, echoing Myers’ philosophy of seizing life’s opportunities with gusto. He emphasised Myers’ infectious personality and his belief in facing life’s obstacles head-on with resilience and positivity. King shared that Myers had been adamant about continuing their shared television career even after his passing, underscoring their deep-rooted camaraderie and mutual understanding.
The documentary served as a testament to the enduring friendship and professional partnership between King and Myers, encapsulating the profound impact they had on each other’s lives. King’s narrative revealed the bittersweet journey of remembrance, encapsulating the highs and lows of their experiences together. He also highlighted Myers’ unwavering spirit and his enduring legacy, urging viewers to adopt a similar approach to life by embracing joy and living fully in the moment.
The airing of “The Hairy Bikers: You’ll Never Ride Alone” provided fans with an intimate glimpse into the profound bond shared by King and Myers. By weaving together a tapestry of memories and heartfelt moments, the documentary paid homage to Myers’ indelible contributions and the enduring mark he left on the hearts of those who knew him. As viewers tuned in to witness this poignant tribute, they were invited to reflect on the power of friendship, resilience, and the enduring legacy of a beloved television personality.
In sharing his reflections on the documentary and the process of grieving, King offered a poignant tribute to his dear friend and collaborator. Through the lens of their shared adventures and profound connection, King painted a vivid portrait of a friendship that transcended boundaries and left an indelible imprint on all those who were touched by their story. As the documentary unfolded, viewers were reminded of the enduring power of camaraderie, love, and the profound impact of celebrating a life well-lived.