Actors from an anticipated television series set in the East End express that their roles present a “fresh perspective” on Jamaicans during Victorian London, a narrative neither of them has encountered before.
The Disney+ period drama, *A Thousand Blows*, chronicles the journey of infamous boxer Sugar Goodson as he navigates the perilous realm of illegal boxing in the 1880s.
Malachi Kirby and Francis Lovehall portray Hezekiah Moscow and Alec Munroe, individuals who abandon their Caribbean roots to immerse themselves in the capital’s bare-knuckle boxing arena.
In a conversation with Eddie Nestor on BBC Radio London, the duo elaborated on why depicting their Jamaican characters from that time period is both rare and significant.
“It’s the tale of a working-class community facing life’s challenges, getting knocked down, yet rising again,” Kirby remarked.
“It depicts not merely survival, but flourishing within society and striving towards one’s aspirations.”
Lovehall added, “During that era, particularly in that location, the struggle seems more intense. These men exemplify resilience, consistently attempting to overcome their challenges.”
Reflecting on his character, Alec Munroe, Lovehall noted, “He radiates love and is someone who fervently pursues his dreams, often prioritizing others over his own needs, which can occasionally work against him.”
Both actors, who previously appeared in the BBC’s *Small Axe* series created and directed by Steve McQueen, clarified that while the narrative may not be entirely factual, their characters, Hezekiah and Alec, are inspired by real individuals.
“Hezekiah Moscow was an actual person; he came from Jamaica with aspirations of becoming a lion tamer but ultimately found success as a boxer. Alec Munroe also existed, and his burial site is located in East London,” Kirby explained.
Both characters have intricate backgrounds, having traveled the globe to seek a new life following their parents’ demise in the 1865 Morant Bay rebellion in Jamaica.
“This represents a period before reggae music; it showcases Jamaica in a way that many people haven’t experienced,” Kirby stated.
“It’s a depiction of Jamaica that is seldom seen.”
Created by Steven Knight of *Peaky Blinders* fame, and with historian David Olusoga serving as executive producer, the production of the show’s second series has already concluded.
Kirby emphasized that the commitment to revealing a different side of historical representations is evident in Hezekiah and Alec’s narratives, asserting, “Everyone aimed to convey authenticity from all angles.”
“It’s been both a joy and a privilege to delve into a world characterized by boundless aspirations and perspectives. Their self-perception is not confined by their appearance or origins.”
Lovehall added, “This narrative offers an alternative viewpoint—I’ve yet to see a story that follows two Jamaican men with dreams, free from the shackles of slavery, embracing a different rhythm and carrying their truth with dignity.”
The first series of *A Thousand Blows* is currently available on Disney+ in the UK.
The post Reviving History: Disney+ Series Shines Light on Jamaican Dreams in Victorian London first appeared on London.
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Author : London News
Publish date : 2025-02-23 09:39:17
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