Grayson Perry explores English identity in Channel 4 series 'Full English'

In the 2023 Channel 4 series 'Grayson Perry's Full English,' Sir Grayson Perry explores the notion of contemporary English identity through a regional road trip. Accompanied by Kirk from Bradford, he encounters various groups such as England football supporters, druids led by Greywolf (Philip), land trespassers, and fashion designer Pearl Lowe with her musician spouse, Danny Goffey. Perry promotes a vision of progressive nationalism that embraces modern Britain, in stark contrast to outdated, insular views. He visits Lambeth in London to meet Jay, a representative of multicultural England, and reflects on his roots in Bicknacre. The review also highlights Alex Niven's upcoming book 'The North Will Rise Again' (2023) and his previous work, 'New Model Island' (Repeater, 2019), which critiques Englishness as a historical burden linked to colonialism and advocates for regional identities. Niven references notable cultural figures and music scenes from Northern England, positioning Perry’s knighthood and Channel 4 platform against critical viewpoints on English identity.