Actor Danny Dyer has expressed his disappointment with Labour leader Keir Starmer, calling for more working-class representation in politics during a candid interview with The Big Issue. Dyer, who supports a change of government, voiced concerns about Starmer’s leadership and praised deputy leader Angela Rayner.
“The Tories messed things up so badly that Keir Starmer got in by default,” Dyer said. “But I don’t trust this man. He got the job handed to him, so what’s he doing to prove he’s different? And now he’s going after pensioners? This is meant to be a working-class party.”
Dyer, known for his outspoken views, added, “We need more working-class people in politics. When Angela Rayner speaks, I listen. I don’t understand why she’s not leading.”
The actor made his remarks after spending a morning selling The Big Issue alongside vendor André Rostant on Charing Cross Road. The experience opened his eyes to the financial struggles many face. “People are really struggling, and there’s not a lot of money out there,” he noted. “But it gives me hope to see the kindness in people.”
Dyer also expressed solidarity with young people facing challenges such as the cost of living crisis and the housing shortage. “You work hard, but you still can’t get on the property ladder,” he said. “Young people aren’t inspired because the system isn’t working for them.”
In the interview, Dyer didn’t hold back his frustrations with the lack of leadership in the country. “We need a leader, and we haven’t had one since David Cameron—who I still despise. When things got tough, he left, and that’s not what leaders do.”
Dyer’s interview, where he discusses a wide range of topics, is featured in The Big Issue magazine, available until October 13. He also stars in the Disney+ series Rivals, premiering on October 18.
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