Charles Bronson, Britain's most notorious prisoner, has been filmed singing What a Wonderful World for his 96-year-old mother from behind his cell door at HMP Long Lartin, as he makes his ninth bid for freedom.
The 73-year-old convicted armed robber is currently awaiting the outcome of his latest parole hearing, hoping to be released after decades behind bars. He was first jailed in 1974 for armed robbery, but repeated violence, hostage-taking and bad behaviour in prison led to his sentence being extended to life.
Song Dedicated to His Mother
The footage, reportedly recorded in April 2025, shows Bronson dedicating the classic Louis Armstrong song to his mother, Eira Peterson, who has been too unwell to visit him for years.
Before singing, Bronson speaks to the camera, saying: "If I was speaking to me mum, this is what I'd say. Yeah. Well, hello, Duchess! How are you, girl? It's me. It's Charlie. Not seen you for a while. About nine years... We've had some rough tumbles over the years, but we're still there, mum. I'm on me way. We'll have that cup of tea and a lovely slice of apple pie, okay? So what I'm going to do for you, mum, I'm going to sing you our favourite song. Don't forget you're always in my heart."
Footage Leaked Ahead of Hearing
The video, which has spread across social media, was allegedly filmed in secret by another inmate using a mobile phone smuggled into HMP Long Lartin in April last year, shortly before Bronson was moved to HMP Wakefield, the Daily Mail reported. The footage was reportedly leaked to coincide with the final days of his ninth formal parole board hearing.
Supporters of Bronson gathered outside the prison on Monday, November 2, holding placards and signs in support of the prisoner at the start of his two-day parole board hearing, where it is being considered whether it is safe to release him. They are also discussing moving him to a wing with other members of the general prison population or even a more open prison.
Prison Service Response
A Prison Service spokesperson said: "Charles Bronson's crimes were horrific and our thoughts remain with his victims. It's completely unacceptable for offenders to use mobile phones in custody and anyone caught breaking prison rules can face tough punishments, including extra time behind bars."
