Image via BBC //

Anyone else kind of wish he remained anonymous?

Banksy, the elusive artist who’s works of social commentary have resonated far and wide across the globe, has seemingly had his identity revealed by the BBC, with a lost interview from 2003 being released by the British broadcaster.

Aired as a part of the The Bansky Story, which is available on BBC Sounds, the interview shows BBC arts correspondent Nigel Wrench interviewing a masked figure, who appears to confirm that he’s indeed the artist. Wrench doesn’t mince words either, with the journalist asking, “Are you happy for me to use your name? I mean, The Independent has,” before he adds, “Is it Robert Banks?,” which Banksy confirms. 

The revelation comes following years of speculation, with many theorising that Banksy was Robin Cunningham, who was named as the first defendant in a legal action accusing the artist and his company Pest Control Ltd of defamation. Another proposed identity was that of Robert Del Naja, also known as 3D, of the group Massive Attack was Banksy.

The interview also features Banksy reflecting on his growing influence in the art world which he, in classic Banksy fashion, rejects, with the artist explaining, “I’m not really into the art world, the ‘Brit art’ thing. I don’t know… it’s not something that interests me, really. I’m more into art that’s voted for by people with their feet than I am into one millionaire judging you and telling people whether you’re ‘art’ or not.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbGs1xqsAyo

It’s definitely an eye-opening look into one of the most prolific artists of our time. Check out the moment he confirms his name below along with video footage of Banksy above.

Banksy appeared to reveal his identity in an interview only now being shared for the first time.

Back in 2003, the mysterious Bristol-based street artist took part in a BBC interview, where a presenter asked him to confirm if a name published in The Independent was true. pic.twitter.com/tC5VsBVatD

— The Independent (@Independent) November 21, 2023