Alison Hammond defends fellow ITV star’s “tone-deaf” new movie following backlash

Alison Hammond stands up for the film “Jafaican,” which has faced criticism lately, in support of her ITV colleague Peter Andre.

Under the guidance of director Fredi Nwaka, the movie features Andre adorning a wig with dreadlocks and assuming a fictitious Jamaican accent for his role. As the story unfolds, his character embarks on a journey to Jamaica, where he intends to carry out fraudulent activities.

Gazza, a petty criminal, needs £35,000 for his grandmother’s care. He finds out about a tip and comes up with a plan. In just 21 days, he has to learn enough about Jamaican culture to pull off a scam in both London and Jamaica. This endeavor puts him in dangerous situations that could cost him his life.

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Ever since it hit screens, people have criticized the movie for promoting xenophobic attitudes and reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

On the current edition of “This Morning”, Andre, frequently seen on ITV programs like “Loose Women”, joined forces with Hammond and his co-host Dermot O’Leary for a chat about “Jafaican”.

In response to criticism on social media labeling the movie as “lackadaisical, insensitive, and regrettably unrefined,” Andre stated that none of the Jamaican actors or crew expressed any reservations. Instead, they gave their full endorsement, claiming it had gained approval from everyone involved.

Andre mentioned that it was unusual for the project to span almost three years, from its inception to completion. He also pointed out that he had the opportunity to work alongside esteemed figures such as Oliver Samuels, reviewing the script, recording dialogue, and even filming with him.

Additionally, our visit to Judgement Yard, the residence of reggae legend Sizzla Kalonji, was a part of our filming. We were fortunate enough to be invited inside. Throughout the entire process, if at any moment anyone there indicated that something wasn’t appropriate or we shouldn’t continue, we would have immediately stopped.

As a fellow Jamaican, let me be open with you: I’ve watched the movie, and honestly, I adored it. You see, my mom was Jamaican, so was my dad, and I’ve had the privilege of visiting this beautiful island. One thing that truly resonates with me about Jamaica is its motto “Out of one, many people.” This film, in some way, embodies that spirit of unity and diversity that we as Jamaicans hold dear.

There are Jamaicans of various ethnicities, including white and Chinese Jamaicans, among others. In your role, you’re essentially portraying a white Jamaican, moved by affection for your grandmother. I find that very endearing.

In response to accusations of cultural appropriation, the director Nwaka stated, “I don’t agree with that viewpoint. Anything that sparks discussion is beneficial, and debates help us understand each other better while also showcasing a stunning nation and culture. Therefore, I don’t perceive it as appropriation in any manner.

A team of creative minds from the Caribbean, headed by PR specialist and cultural analyst Marianne Sunshine, voiced their opinions about the film to The Voice.

They wrote that it’s hard to understand how a Black filmmaker could produce something as insensitive, out-of-touch, and culturally harmful as the movie Jafaican. Based on the trailer alone, they believe they have the right to say this, because it’s already evident from its brief presentation that this project is more about mockery than respect.

As a passionate admirer, I’d like to share that when faced with criticism following the premiere of the movie at the Gold Coast Film Festival, the organizers clarified their intentions. They explained that the film was created to celebrate and highlight Jamaican culture, rather than make fun or ridicule it.

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2025-05-23 23:19