Bad boys who mean business
ITV, 9pm GANGSTER twins Ronnie and Reggie Kray are two of the most notorious criminals in British history, part of the culture of the Swinging Sixties and the East End underworld.
Fred Dinenage, co-author of the Krays’ official biography, says: “Ronnie said to me, ‘In the mid-60s, the Rolling Stones and The Beatles ruled the pop world, Carnaby Street ruled the fashion world, and me and Reggie ruled London. We were f***ing untouchable’.” With an aura of glamour alongside their violent criminality, as well as a flair for publicity, they became as much a part of the 60s as any celebrity. And half a century on from their imprisonment, and 20 years since their deaths, we’re still fascinated.
This BritBox Original Series is a definitive account of an extraordinary story, packed with revelation and insight from the people who know the story best – because they were there. We hear from friends, family and acquaintances, including some of those who were part of their gang. Chris Lambrianou was convicted with the Krays in 1969 and sentenced to 15 years for being present at the murder of Jack McVitie.
He says: “When they walked through the door, there was danger. They were a new breed.” Gerry Parker, an acquaintance, says: “They were dangerous, they wouldn’t give in until they stabbed you or shot you. They built a reputation very quickly.”
With plenty of archive footage and firsthand testimony, this three-part series brings to life a colourful era and the rise, reign and fall of Britain’s most iconic gangsters.