The creator of Green Street is set to produce a film about Roy Larner, a Millwall football fan known as ‘The Lion of London Bridge’. Larner gained fame in 2017 for bravely confronting terrorists during the London Bridge attack on 3 June. He defiantly shouted, “f*** you, I’m Millwall” while fighting off the attackers bare-handed. Despite sustaining severe stab wounds, Larner’s heroic actions saved an estimated 30 lives during the tragic incident that claimed eight lives.
Roy Larner, now 55 years old, was homeless at the time of the attack and received widespread praise for his bravery. Supporters rallied behind him, raising over £50,000 to aid his recovery. Now, screenwriter Dougie Brimson, best known for Green Street starring Elijah Wood and Charlie Hunnam, is bringing Larner’s remarkable story to the big screen. Brimson has acquired the rights to adapt Larner’s life story from the book ‘The Lion of London Bridge’, with actor Leo Gregory slated to portray Larner in the film.
Brimson, a former Sergeant engineer with military experience, emphasised Larner’s heroism and the importance of sharing his story. He expressed his belief that Roy’s incredible feats on that fateful night deserve recognition and portrayal in cinema. Larner’s actions on the night of the London Bridge attack were nothing short of heroic, and his journey since then has been filled with challenges.
Following his initial acclaim, Larner faced controversy after a video surfaced showing him engaging in a racist outburst towards anti-racist protestors and a Black photographer. Despite the backlash, Larner later apologised for the incident, attributing it to a heated exchange during a march where tensions escalated. He clarified that the altercation was not intentional and stemmed from provocation during the event.
Roy Larner’s story is one of courage, resilience, and redemption, showcasing the complexities of human nature in the face of adversity. The upcoming film project helmed by Dougie Brimson promises to shed light on the remarkable journey of ‘The Lion of London Bridge’ and capture the essence of his unwavering spirit.