Ross Kemp: ‘TV hard man is a f**king cliché I hate – I’m too old to be tough’

As a seasoned movie critic with over two decades of immersion into the gritty realities of gangs, warzones, and criminal underbelly, I must say that Ross Kemp: Mafia and Britain is an absolute must-watch. This documentary is not just another run-of-the-mill exposé; it’s a historical deep dive into our country’s often overlooked connections to organized crime, from the infamous Kray twins to hitmen lurking in caravan parks.

After a span of twenty years since his acclaimed gangs series, Ross Kemp, an actor and documentary maker, is once again exploring the shadowy realm of criminal networks, preparing to unveil one of his most enlightening documentaries.

Ross Kemp’s series, “Mafia and Britain,” delves into our nation’s frequently overlooked connections to criminal underworld activities. From the Kray twins’ money laundering operations that intertwined with New York mafia networks, to tales of assassins finding sanctuary in mobile home parks, this show uncovers these hidden aspects of our history.

Over a span of four months, the documentary titled “Mafia and Britain” follows our guide on a worldwide journey, engaging with scholarly authorities, former FBI personnel, and even individuals who had previously operated as crime bosses in the drug and illicit goods trade, earning vast fortunes while ruthlessly suppressing any opposition.

To Kemp, I admitted that I couldn’t recall the appearance of the victims. However, what I could recollect was the sound of their bodies striking the ground.

“That’s better than the script of The Sopranos,” Kemp boggles.

After spending twenty years amidst gang territories, conflict zones, and within prison walls, encountering remarkable individuals throughout, one could think that Kemp would have grown blasé by now. However, that is not the case.

However, he emphasizes that’s not what actually occurs: “There’s something a bit shocking about its acceptance – notably the nonchalant perspective on mortality.

Ross Kemp: ‘TV hard man is a f**king cliché I hate – I’m too old to be tough’

Convincing ex-Mafia members to participate in his new program wasn’t a walk in the park, as Kemp pointed out, since it might have put them at significant risk, even to the point of being life-threatening, if they agreed to speak with him.

I’ve been finding it challenging to communicate with individuals who seemed to appear and disappear quickly. Given the nature of our project, it’s important to acknowledge that there was a fair amount of apprehension or suspicion involved.

As a film enthusiast, I must admit that delving into such a delicate and disputable topic makes me quite apprehensive. However, I stand firm in asserting that Mafia and Britain isn’t intended to be an undercover expose on contemporary organized crime networks. Instead, it serves as a historical record of the past.

I’m worried about the potential consequences once this is released. However, let me make it crystal clear: this is not an inquiry into the current activities of the Mafia. Such a venture would be far too risky and dangerous.

This isn’t an intense secret probe into current criminal activities across the UK by organized crime groups – if it were, I’d need a bulletproof vest while I’m out… and I’d rather avoid that.

Kemp found great attraction in exploring this specific topic because it allowed him to record the hidden historical links between Britain and criminal underworlds, which some of us may not know about or choose to ignore.

Beyond just Italian mobs, multiple organized crime syndicates exist within the United Kingdom. Over time, the term ‘Mafia’ has evolved to encompass various groups, not only Cosa Nostra from Sicily; it serves as an overarching term for numerous criminal organizations operating here.

As a movie enthusiast, I must admit that pinpointing specific instances isn’t always straightforward. If you’re asking me to dig deep and uncover hidden truths myself, well, I’m more of a spectator in this grand cinematic theater.

The activities of criminal networks is something that, after 20 years, Kemp says still fascinates him – though he also admits that the subject matter of his documentaries is somewhat dictated by what the public expect of him.

Each situation requires a different approach, so it’s unlikely that I’ll be asked to design the gardens of the grand estates in Britain. Though I’d find it fascinating and potentially yield captivating tales, this isn’t the kind of work people expect from me.

“That’s a hangover from ‘TV hard man’, which is a f**king cliché that I hate. The truth is I’m getting too old to be tough… I can’t [even] deal with my own children.”

Despite losing none of his enthusiasm, he continues to explore places where others may hesitate, driven by a desire to share tales he considers vital.

I’d love to dedicate my entire life to creating a world as intense as Kemp’s Sky series [a series airing from 2011-2017 that delved into violence, crime, drug trades, and global issues], but it’s increasingly challenging to produce shows like that.

The other day I suggested an idea to someone, and their response was, ‘I’m not convinced it has enough depth or complexity…’ I must admit, I found myself puzzled by this comment. What exactly does ‘layers’ refer to in this context?

It’s unfortunate that, despite passing through time, the world seems no better off than when I first saw it. Regrettably, our actions on this planet have primarily been destructive, causing more harm than good, and creating an abundance of problems.

Since the situation hasn’t improved, it would be beneficial to produce more movies that educate people about our current state and the underlying factors.

Ross Kemp: Mafia and Britain airs Tuesdays from 10th September at 9pm on Sky History – an accompanying book based on the series will also be published on 19th September from Octopus Books.

2024-09-06 21:34

Read More