Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

James McLean Reveals Troubling Past Amid Death Threats

10/21/2025

35 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

James McLean, footballer with Wrexham FC, described his upbringing in Derry's Creggan estate on Virgin Media's Living with Lucy.
He said he learned to make petrol bombs at ages 11 to 13 and joined riots.
His refusal to wear the poppy has drawn death threats and safety fears, including warnings that Sunderland could be shot.
He argues the poppy symbolizes all UK conflicts he cannot support because of Bloody Sunday.

History

Historical Context

On January 30, 1972, British soldiers shot 26 unarmed civilians during a civil rights march in Derry, Northern Ireland, resulting in 14 deaths. This event, known as Bloody Sunday, intensified the conflict between the UK government and Irish nationalists, leading to increased support for the Provisional IRA. The incident marked a significant escalation in the Troubles, a conflict that lasted until the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

1 of 2

Story summary

James McLean, footballer with Wrexham FC, described his upbringing in Derry's Creggan estate on Virgin Media's Living with Lucy.
He said he learned to make petrol bombs at ages 11 to 13 and joined riots.
His refusal to wear the poppy has drawn death threats and safety fears, including warnings that Sunderland could be shot.
He argues the poppy symbolizes all UK conflicts he cannot support because of Bloody Sunday.

1 / 2