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Danny Dyer Slams Elitist Critics Mocking His Accent, Says They Wouldn’t Do It If He Was Black

BBG News

English actor Danny Dyer, known for his Cockney roots that trace back to royalty and advisers, asserts that ‘elite’ critics would not ridicule his accent if he were a black performer.

Today, it’s shared on Desert Island Discs (BBC Radio 4) that a previous star of EastEnders recalls an unfavorable critique of his performance, penned in a mock Cockney dialect.

He expressed his bewilderment, saying, “It seemed strange to me, ‘why is this acceptable?’ If I were a black actor, they definitely wouldn’t portray me with a Jamaican accent. I’ve faced some harsh criticisms regarding my performance.

In simpler terms, the 47-year-old man living in Custom House, part of London’s East End, feels that growing up in a working-class family may have hindered his chances of being taken seriously as an actor.

He expresses that although he believes he’s accomplished significant work throughout his career, he hasn’t received much recognition for it. He notes a certain level of snobbery within the field, which he identifies with. He takes great pride in his humble, working-class background.

As a devoted fan, I’d never work to please critics, but one comment struck me like a bolt: “The most stunning plot twist in Rivals is that Danny Dyer can act.” It left me speechless, in awe, and somewhat puzzled. On one hand, it’s flattering; on the other, it hints at an unspoken assumption – as if his acting prowess was unexpected.

At age 22, Dyer found guidance from the Nobel laureate playwriter, Harold Pinter, who nurtured the young actor’s talent. This partnership led Dyer to star in three of Pinter’s plays, as both men shared a common background growing up in working-class East London.

He shares that I often spent time at his residence in Notting Hill, where he’d treat me to a pack of beer and we’d simply engage in conversations while he enjoyed his wine. He made me feel secure, he nurtured my passion for theater, encouraging me to fully embody the role of a ‘theater enthusiast.’

After Pinter’s passing in 2008, Dyer described his state as a “downward spiral of confusion.” He expressed feelings of guilt for not being with him anymore, admitting to feeling somewhat aimless and frustrated with the world.

2013 saw the addition of Dyer to the EastEnders cast, portraying Mick Carter, the proprietor of Queen Vic, for an impressive eight-year span. However, his battle with the pressures of fame resulted in heavy drinking and drug use, negatively impacting both his professional life and personal relationships.

In 2017, he checked himself into a rehabilitation center located in South Africa, seeking help for his emotional struggles. However, he confessed that he nearly abandoned the treatment until a letter arrived from home, which stirred deep thoughts about the hurt he had inflicted on his loved ones.

He admits, ‘For a fleeting instant, my pride swelled up once more, but I’d reached my limit. However, upon hearing a letter from my daughter, Dani, read aloud, I found myself reclaiming my seat with renewed vigor.’

Currently, his concern lies with harmful attitudes associated with traditional masculinity, and he believes that the struggle many men face in discussing emotional matters could be causing detriment to an entire generation.

He expresses concern about a number of young men who seem to be struggling with their behavior currently, feeling afraid, and he emphasizes the importance of finding a solution to this issue.

‘While the term ‘toxic masculinity’ often refers to certain behaviors, it doesn’t automatically mean that all males exhibit these traits. Instead, it suggests that individuals who display such negative characteristics are essentially behaving poorly as people.’

The acclaimed actor, known for his portrayal of the affluent electronics magnate Freddie Jones on the popular series Rivals, advocates that guys can benefit from openly sharing their emotions with companions.

As a devoted supporter, I’m expressing the sentiment that it’s high time for us men to loosen up a bit more. Sharing thoughts and experiences is crucial, and I often find myself admiring the camaraderie women display when they gossip or discuss various topics. It’s essential we don’t hold things in; instead, let’s communicate openly to foster understanding and build stronger relationships among us men.

It’s perfectly fine to express a masculine demeanor, yet it’s equally acceptable if you don’t identify with traditional emotional expression. However, it’s important that you feel comfortable discussing your feelings, whether you’re playing pool or just hanging out in a car.

  • Desert Island Discs is on Radio 4 at 10am on Sunday and is available via BBC Sounds.

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2025-05-11 02:03

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