Footballer Troy Deeney set to front new Channel 4 documentary

Virgin Radio

8 Apr 2022, 09:20

Birmingham City player Troy Deeney will star in a new documentary, following his campaign for black, Asian and ethnic minority histories to be taught in schools.

The hour-long show, which will air on Channel Four, is called Troy Deeney - Where's My History, and will see the star footballer speak to other celebrities, such as boxer Anthony Joshua and rapper and presenter Big Narstie. 

The former Watford striker recently launched a petition to make the teaching of black, Asian and ethnic minority histories and experiences mandatory across the school curriculum, and in his documentary he will speak to Education Secretary Nadim Zahawi. The petition has gained over 50,000 signatures so far. Ahead of setting up the petition, Deeney wrote an open letter to Mr Zahawi.

The goalscoring legend said: “As the proud father of four children, three of which are currently in the education system, this topic has moved front and centre in my life. I have seen more and more how important it is for my children to be able to see themselves represented in what they are being taught and learn about the contribution and background of people who look like them.”

He continued: “The current system is failing children from ethnic minorities. Over the past 18 months nearly 400,000 people have signed petitions calling for more diversity in the national curriculum, yet the teaching of diversity in schools still remains optional and the government’s stock response has been ‘it is down to teachers and schools to teach them.’”

"The importance of education at an early age to inform identity and combat racist beliefs and stereotypes cannot be understated. I have met some amazing people throughout this journey who have made it their lives’ work to make real change in this area. I have been inspired and enlightened and this is just the start of this journey."

The documentary, which will also include accounts of Deeney’s own troubled time at school, is set to air next month on Channel 4, although an exact date and time has yet to be announced.