What’s so Great About Britain? Stars unite for GQ shoot celebrating British culture and reveal what they love about the country… but not everyone is positive

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What is so great about Britain?

When asked what makes Britain great, responses from famous people vary wildly – some mention the NHS, others our unique way of speaking, and surprisingly, even Mr Blobby!

However, many people are pessimistic. They’re concerned about what’s to come, feel politicians have failed the country, and believe it’s becoming harder to get ahead.

The latest issue of British GQ is their biggest yet, bringing together 15 of Britain’s most celebrated figures to explore what makes the country so special.

This month’s issue explores what truly motivates and defines our nation and its people.

And the Daily Mail has been given exclusive insider access to the ambitious shoot.

79-year-old actor Brian Cox showed off a timeless trench coat from Mackintosh, and he wasn’t shy about sharing his thoughts.

He stated that our National Health Service, despite being world-renowned, isn’t treated with the respect it deserves. While acknowledging it faces challenges and has experienced difficulties, he emphasized its unique and valuable position within the country.

The actor, known for his role in ‘Succession,’ doesn’t like the idea of labeling some people as ‘national treasures’ – implying that no one person is inherently more important than another. However, he does make an exception for Judi Dench, believing she truly deserves the title.

When asked about her proudest ‘British moment,’ England’s Chloe Kelly, 27, highlighted the impact the Lionesses had in 2022. She explained that being able to inspire young girls through their success and use their platform for positive change gives her confidence in the team’s future.

Ian Wright, the 61-year-old former footballer and commentator, expressed his pride in British football. He said the entire structure of the sport, from grassroots to the top leagues, is something he’s truly proud of as a Brit.

We have ten levels of competition, covering amateur and local football played by over 40,000 clubs. It’s fantastic to see the positive impact this has on communities nationwide, and I’m very proud of that. We’re also working to create a similar structured system – a proper pyramid – for women’s football.

According to insiders, the photoshoot’s styling was incredibly detailed, and each celebrity was dressed to look like an exaggerated, yet realistic, version of themselves.

They described it as a carefully selected collection featuring the latest runway looks, British designers, and classic brands – all highlighting the unique and quirky nature of British fashion.

Oh my gosh, can you even *imagine*? Each of my absolute favorite stars got to pick from SEVEN different complete looks! They needed two entire studio spaces just to hold everything – twenty racks overflowing with shoes, hats, scarves, sunglasses, and all the jewelry! It was a total dream, a fashion paradise just for them, and honestly, I’m living for it.

Actor Andrew Garfield, 42, playfully referenced a common stereotype while wearing a Saint Laurent blazer, tie, and leather pants.

You know, I’ve noticed something interesting over the years. It seems like having a British accent automatically gives you a bit of extra credibility. People tend to assume you’re more intelligent, which, honestly? I’m not complaining about! It’s a funny little perk, and I’m happy to let people think what they will.

Amelia Dimoldenberg, known for her Chicken Shop Date series, shared a photo showing off her shopping and playfully declared her love for London.

Singer Jade Thirlwall, 32, recently discussed political issues. When asked what she would do if she were Prime Minister for a day, she expressed concern about the rapidly developing world of artificial intelligence and advocated for new laws to safeguard artists from its potential effects.

Oh my gosh, Will Poulter *gets* it! He was talking about what makes Britain, Britain, and he totally nailed it. He said – and I’m quoting because it’s just *so* perfect – that Britain wouldn’t be anything special without immigrants, all the people who’ve made this country their home. It just…it really resonated with me. He understands! It’s like, finally, someone famous said what we all know is true!

As a huge fan, I completely agree with FKA Twigs – Britain is overflowing with incredibly talented people who’ve really made their mark on the world. It’s amazing to see how many British artists are shaping global culture!

However, not everyone shared that optimistic view. Jason Isaacs, 62, known for his role in The White Lotus, expressed concern that Britain had lost its direction.

He pointed out that success isn’t always about money. Often, it’s about improving yourself – becoming more organized, understanding, or modest.

As a major global power, the United States has been losing influence since the 1920s. This decline also reflects a waning ability to take advantage of and exploit indigenous populations and nations around the world.

Ambika Mod, the star of One Day, was direct in her assessment, stating that there aren’t enough opportunities, particularly for those from working-class families.

Lately, I’ve been increasingly frustrated with the entertainment industry, particularly after the success of ‘One Day’ and as I’ve progressed in my career. It feels like there’s a real lack of opportunities for people like me.

Heartstopper actor Joe Locke, 21, perched on a Lime Bike for the shoot, voiced his unease, too.

The next five years will be crucial for the future of our country. While it’s important to stay optimistic, we also have a lot of challenges to address.

Okay, so Munroe Bergdorf – honestly, she just *gets* it. She said something that really stuck with me: she basically pointed out that the way politicians handle things with trans people is a huge warning sign. It’s like, if they’re willing to mistreat *us*, they’ll eventually come for everyone else too. It’s so true, and she said it so powerfully! I’ve been thinking about it all day.

Many people struggle to understand transgender identities because they seem so foreign. It’s simpler to view trans people as an abstract idea or a political stance rather than as individuals, and this is a common tactic used to justify discrimination and oppression.

Anthony Joshua, the boxer, showed his annoyance with the media while sporting Louis Vuitton jeans, a pet pigeon on his shoulder, and casually holding a cup of tea.

He explained that it’s difficult to inspire patriotism when people feel like their country and the media are working against them.

‘So I think they should try and get behind their athletes more. Even the s*** ones.’

Emma Thompson, age 66, chose not to speak to reporters, covering her neck with a large scarf. When asked what gave him hope, Mr. Blobby simply replied, ‘Blobby!’

The cover’s release is particularly noteworthy given the recent events in London. Over 110,000 people who oppose immigration participated in a protest called Unite the Kingdom, led by controversial figure Tommy Robinson, just over the weekend.

Clashes occurred between protesters and counter-protesters in Whitehall, and Elon Musk joined the discussion via video, expressing concern about the direction Britain is heading. Police reported serious aggression from demonstrators, who threw objects at officers.

The team behind this issue of GQ couldn’t have known what was coming. The photoshoot, directed by Charlotte Rutherford, took months to plan and happened over three days earlier this year at a London studio called Big Sky Studios. Those involved say the set was designed to look like a typical British high street, aiming to showcase the unique qualities of British culture.

Each of the fifteen stars was individually positioned within the scene using 3D modeling to create a specific, meaningful moment for each one.

Adam Baidawi, the Head of Editorial at British GQ, described the shoot as both the most challenging and one of the most rewarding experiences he’s had during his time with the magazine.

We wanted to make a really striking and memorable visual impact – something bold, delightful, unexpected, and beautiful. I believe our incredibly talented creative team has achieved exactly that.

The latest issue of GQ, a special edition titled ‘What’s So Great About Britain,’ will be available in stores and online starting September 23rd.

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2025-09-15 12:07