Channel 4 today announces the commission of 60 Days with the Gypsies with ex-soldier and explorer, Ed Stafford, following the success of 60 Days on the Street which aired in March 2019.

The 3 x 60’ series, a Boundless production (part of Fremantle in the UK), will see Ed immerse himself into Romani Gypsy and Irish Travelling culture for 60 days, to provide an honest, unflinching insight from the inside. Shot in the same style as 60 Days on the Street, the series will combine self-shooting techniques alongside a small crew who will capture Ed’s journey.

At a time when the Government is considering new police powers which will make the traditional Travelling way of life more difficult, Ed will delve beneath the stereotypes, building relationships with individuals in an endeavour to question everything we think we know about the Gypsy and Traveller lifestyle.

60 Days with the Gypsies will also look at why the conflict between settled communities and Gypsies is so prevalent. As part of the production team, Boundless has brought on Jake Bowers, a Romani journalist and filmmaker, as a consultant to help navigate these stories in an authentic and sensitive way.

Ed Stafford said: ‘’Like homelessness, Gypsy and Travelling communities are often shrouded in negativity despite very little understanding and I want to learn more.  I have no qualms about immersing myself in every ritual, tradition and aspect of the culture in order to get to know the individuals and unpick the existing stereotypes.”

Neil Smith, MD of Boundless said: “Ed’s raw and honest portrayal of life on the streets struck a chord with the British public and we’re back to tell another important story of a marginalised community from their perspective.”

Ian Dunkley, Commissioner, Factual Entertainment at Channel 4 said, “The series promises to bring an authentic and revelatory take on an often misunderstood section of society. By living with, and alongside, different Travelling communities Ed can give a unique insight into the challenges they face in their everyday lives.”

60 Days with the Gypsies is a 3 x 60’ series produced by Boundless (part of Fremantle in the UK). It was commissioned by Ian Dunkley, Commissioning Editor for Factual Entertainment at Channel 4. The Executive Producers for Boundless are Ben Mitchell and Ewen Thomson.