Critically-acclaimed actor Jack backs Derby’s UK City of Culture Bid

One of Derby’s most famous faces – critically-acclaimed actor Jack O’Connell – has given his backing to the city’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2025.

Jack, who was born and raised in Alvaston, is a film and television star who has appeared in Hollywood movies such as Unbroken and Money Monster.

And as well as being passionate about his home city, the 31-year-old is also a huge Derby County fan.

Derby is currently longlisted for the City of Culture 2025 title, alongside seven other places from across the UK. And as the city prepares to submit its formal bid early next month, it has been given a ringing endorsement by the actor.

He describes the city as “a more than worthy recipient of the City of Culture crown” due to its contributions to industry, engineering and culture.

He said: “Ultimately, in Derby, being proud is a given because of the history we inherit, and more importantly, the future we strive to build.”

Derby’s bid highlights its rich cultural heritage, illustrious history and an ambitious future.

These are acknowledged by Jack, who has starred in iconic productions Skins and This Is England – and more recently appeared in the BBC miniseries The North Water alongside Colin Farrell.

He said: “Derby is the place I proudly get to call my home. It has a mightily strong identity. The birthplace of a revolution responsible for catapulting the modern world into a brand-new age of innovation.

“A Derbeian wears a pride that is uniquely enriched. Our one-football-club-city mentality unites us all.

“Our advances in engineering are world renowned. Our contribution to aerospace achievements during wartime were ground-breaking. Our outstanding natural beauty and our often-overlooked arts scene.

“A more than worthy recipient of the City of Culture crown; we are the hosts of an incredibly vibrant live music scene every night and the world’s ale capital.

“Our numerous neighbouring villages and towns, each packed with charisma and charm, are home to some of the country’s finest exports – Mr John Smedley would’ve told you that.”

With the bid backed by Derby City Council, winning the title of City of Culture will enable Derby to showcase its rich cultural offering to thousands of extra visitors.

It would also attract additional investment and create jobs.

To find out more about Derby’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2025 please click here.