Dave Courtney was in 'a lot of pain' according to a video recorded by the former London gangster-turned-actor before his death. The well-known figure died last week.
It is believed that the 64-year-old died by suicide. The video, released on Courtney's social media accounts on Tuesday, was filmed on July 5 in his Camelot Castle home in Plumstead, more than three months earlier.
A statement put out on his social media channels in the wake of his death said: "The video clearly shows Dave had not taken the decision to take his own life lightly, and had gone into thorough planning and preparation to ensure as little pain as possible for his loved ones in the aftermath of his death."
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In the video itself, which is filmed by Courtney, he explained how painful simple things like climbing the stairs or getting in and out of cars were due to various illnesses.
"As you can all see I am in sound mind and body. Sorry I've took the coward's way out," he said. "I am hurting. I am disguising a lot of pain.
"I'm not enjoying it at the moment. That's really it. I don't want to go and waste a wicked life I've had, absolutely superb.
"And then the rest of it in pain, trying not to go and end it because it would upset everybody else. I'm not enjoying it, and I do what I want. That is really why I'm not here today. Please don't be sad."
The video was found following an examination of Courtney's personal effects by Brendan McGirr, the statement said.
Courtney, who claimed to be an associate of the notorious Kray twins, was found dead at his home on Chestnut Rise, Plumstead, in the early hours of Sunday. A post on his Instagram said he had taken his own life.
In a statement, Courtney's family said: "The physical pain of living the lifestyle he chose, especially due to the pain of both cancer and arthritis in his later years, became too much."
Where to get help if you're struggling
You don't have to suffer in silence if you're struggling with your mental health. Here are some groups you can contact when you need help.
Samaritans: Phone 116 123, 24 hours a day, or email jo@samaritans.org in confidence
Childline: Phone 0800 1111. Calls are free and won't show up on your bill
PAPYRUS: For teens and young adults. Phone 0800 068 4141
Depression Alliance: The charity offers useful resources for people struggling.
Students Against Depression: For students who are depressed, have low mood, or are suicidal.
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): Phone 0800 58 58 58. For young men who are feeling unhappy.
For information on your local NHS urgent mental health helpline, visit here
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