Actor James Buckley has returned to work on the set of Harlan Coben's Netflix drama "The Woods" in Cheshire, England, his first public appearance since disclosing a recent genetic diagnosis. The 38-year-old star, known for his role in "The Inbetweeners," revealed this week that he faces a high risk of cardiovascular incidents due to an inherited condition.
Buckley's diagnosis involves elevated Lipoprotein(a), a type of blood cholesterol that can accelerate plaque buildup in arteries. This condition, which affects an estimated one in five people globally, often presents no symptoms until a cardiovascular event occurs. Buckley stated that his doctors advised him to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Despite his health concerns, Buckley appeared in good spirits while filming. He is portraying Lonnie Berger in "The Woods," a Netflix drama based on Coben's novel of the same name. He was joined on set by co-stars Michelle Keegan, who plays Lucy Silverfield, and Tom Bateman, cast as barrister Paul 'Cope' Copeland.
Earlier this week, Buckley's wife, Clair, mentioned on Radio X's The Chris Moyles Show that while he had initially pledged to overhaul his lifestyle, he was still consuming alcohol and visiting pubs. Buckley himself had previously indicated he was giving up drinking for the time being and modifying his diet, though he also suggested he might have a beer soon.
Clair Buckley also shared her own recent health scare, describing a virus that led to severe dehydration and hospitalization, from which she has since recovered. The couple's health updates come amid reports of a potential third "Inbetweeners" movie, with all four main cast members reportedly signed on for a Netflix production. Emily Atack, who previously appeared in the series, is also reportedly being sought for a return.