Ben Bailey-Smith has called out fantasy television series such as Game of Thrones for their lack of diversity.
The 41-year-old rapper and actor, who also goes by Doc Brown, is currently starring in the Disney’s brand new animated series 101 Dalmatian Street and is calling for better representation on the small-screen.
Speaking exclusively to Metro.co.uk about diversity within the world of television, Ben said: ‘I think it’s important when you’re reflecting a diverse story. If you’re making The Crown, it is what it is.
‘You have a white upper class family that you’re telling a story about. That’s fact.’
Game of Thrones has come under fire for its whiteness in the past, with John Boyega criticising the show for having ‘no black people’ and Ben is in agreement with the lack of minority races being featured.
‘Fantasy kingdom has no “other” people in it and it’s quite annoying because this is a fantasy world, it could be anybody, you know?’ he told us. ‘There’s no rules, so that can be really annoying.
‘If you’re making a modern show about contemporary London then diversity is absolutely key because all you need to do is open your door and walk around London to see how diverse it is.’
Ben is lending his voice to Sid Squirrel in 101 Dalmatian Street, alongside Paloma Faith, Stephen Mangan and Michaela Dietz, and is proud of the range of its cast members and the story it tells.
‘What I really love about this project is it looks like London and it makes London colourful and friendly, which despite what the news tells you, it is.
‘What I really love about 101 is that it really celebrates that.’
‘The exciting new series will introduce a new generation of children to the wonderful, spotty world of Dalmatians, with 101 Dalmatian Street inspired by Dodie Smith’s timeless 1956 novel and Walt Disney’s classic 1961 film, 101 Dalmatians,’ teases the synopsis.
101 Dalmatian Street airs Mondays to Thursdays at 5pm on the Disney Channel.
Got a showbiz story?
If you’ve got a story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk Entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE: Doctor Who star Doc Brown reveals true thoughts towards first female Time Lord Jodie Whittaker
