Masculinity. It’s one of those words that triggers instant debate nowadays. Gone are the days when being a bit blokey was simply part of everyday British life. These days, masculinity itself is on trial, accused and often convicted of toxicity. And let’s face it, the shift hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing.

On one hand, society’s evolving attitudes have been crucial in challenging harmful stereotypes, but on the other, some men feel unfairly demonised, uncertain whether there’s still room to be a bloke without becoming a villain.

Enter Peperami’s Animal. Remember him? If you lived through the 90s, Animal wasn’t just a character; he was an embodiment of the era itself – unapologetically aggressive, often nihilistic, and undeniably memorable. He was loud, brash, confrontational, and, let’s be honest, the sort of character you’d deliberately avoid if you saw him swaggering your way after a few pints on a Friday night.