Channel 4 documentary explores modern masculinity with actor Danny Dyer

14 March 2024

Renowned British actor Danny Dyer, celebrated for his iconic manly roles, is set to step out of his tough guy persona and embark on an insightful journey into the heart of modern British masculinity in a ground-breaking new two-part documentary series for Channel 4. 

Produced by Whitworth Media, Danny Dyer: How To Be A Man follows Danny as he delves into the evolving landscape of masculinity. At a time when some believe traditional masculinity has been labelled ‘toxic’ Danny will ask men across Britain what they think it means to be a man in our society, and what the future is for the male identity.  

With his signature charisma and candour, Danny will meet individuals who believe traditional masculinity is under threat, as well as those advocating for a more progressive and inclusive version of the male identity and manhood. 

The series will feature interviews with men, including a politician, psychologists, a mental health expert, a fitness expert, a sex therapist, an influencer, male victims of domestic abuse, and members of the Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus to offer a range of voices and perspectives on this complex subject. 

Across both films Danny will be exploring gender stereotypes, male attitudes to mental health, and exploring the changing roles of men in society. He will engage in conversations that challenge perceptions and open up a dialogue on what it means to be a modern man in Britain today. 

Danny Dyer said, “As an actor, I've played countless characters, but now I am making a documentary about what the evolving place of men really is. If you were to look on social media, it might seem like people are either completely embracing or rejecting traditional gender roles, without much room for nuance. That’s why we wanted to chat to real men that are representative of the UK today, to hear their thoughts on what being a modern man is to them. To me, being a man isn’t about trying to fit a mould, it's about showing a bit of heart and respecting yourself and others so I'm hoping this documentary gets the geezers talking.” 

Hugh Whitworth, CEO and Creative Director at Whitworth Media, said, “It feels like a taboo subject, but men and boys are facing really serious issues that we need to be talking about for the benefit of everyone.”

James Routh, Director, said “As someone of a similar vintage to Danny it’s been fascinating, shocking but also inspiring ‘to travel the country talking to geezers’. It’s important that we have these conversations as a society, preferably face-to-face. At a time of noisy online identity politics it’s worth remembering that for a huge section of society their primary identity is simply ‘man’, and that this most fundamental of categories comes with its own issues, needs and challenges.

Ian Dunkley, Commissioning Editor for Channel 4, said, “Danny Dyer: How To Be A Man promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of masculinity in contemporary Britain.  Danny Dyer’s unique perspective and engaging storytelling captivate audiences and spark important conversations about what it means to be a man in today's world.”

The two-part factual entertainment series was commissioned for Channel 4 by Ian Dunkley. It was filmed and directed by James Routh, with Hugh Whitworth as Executive Producer for Whitworth Media. 

 

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