EastEnders star Ross Kemp has spoken out against far-right protesters who have been using the St George's Cross as a rallying symbol. The actor and documentary maker expressed dismay at seeing the English flag co-opted by the right, particularly at the recent Unite the Kingdom rally where thousands waved the flag while chanting offensive slogans.
Kemp, known for his role as Grant Mitchell, said: 'If it’s hijacked by other people for their means, then that’s entirely up to them, but that’s not what it means to me. It just means being English. I’m very proud of being English.' He emphasised that the flag represents the mainstream, appearing on football and rugby shirts and worn by athletes of all backgrounds winning Olympic medals.
The actor also reflected on his career, including hosting the 40th anniversary special of EastEnders earlier this year. He praised the soap for its groundbreaking portrayal of social issues, saying: 'It really showed a changing Britain and how things which were considered outrageous in the 80s and 90s have become acceptable.'
Kemp fondly remembered his on-screen mother, the late Barbara Windsor, who played Peggy Mitchell. 'Barbara’s never far away,' he said. 'I got on very well with her, I had a very close relationship with her.' He noted that Windsor remains in the public memory due to her long career and connection with fans.
Despite his documentary success, Kemp expressed a desire to return to acting. 'I’d like to do a bit more acting, to be honest,' he said. However, he acknowledged that his iconic role as Grant Mitchell makes it difficult to escape typecasting, adding: 'I don’t think I’d have got a documentary commission if it hadn’t been for Grant.'
