My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding
Big Fat Gypsy Weddings is a British documentary series broadcast on Channel 4, that explores the lives and traditions of several Irish Traveller families as they prepare to unite one of their number in marriage. The series also featured Romanichal in several episodes, and has been criticised for not accurately representing England’s Romani and Travelling community. It was first broadcast in February 2010 as a one-off documentary called My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding, filmed as part of the Cutting Edge series and voted Most Groundbreaking Show in the Cultural Diversity Awards 2010. A series of 5 episodes were later commissioned, and the series first aired in January 2011. A second series began airing in February 2012. A third series was not made, rather the show ended with six stand-alone specials.
Episodes
This episode explores the competitive streak that lies behind the now famous gypsy look and the extraordinary sacrifices that are taken to achieve it.
In this episode, Irish Traveller Danielle is determined to live her life in a traditional way and, at just 15, is planning a lavish black pink and bling hen party.
As the eldest granddaughter of a family with both Romany gypsy and Irish traveller heritage, 15 year old Santana is expected to follow strict rules for girls and set a good example for her younger family members.
This episode explores further the cultural divide between gypsies and non-gypsies and looks at what happens when the two worlds are thrust together in marriage.
For Gypsies and Travellers, a clean family name is crucial, and the consequences of losing it are devastating. After causing a scandal by spending time alone with her boyfriend, Rosanne is rushed up the aisle to save her reputation.
In this episode we witness a community at a cross roads, as the battle to preserve the gypsy and traveller way of life intensifies. Will the future tear their culture apart, or do they have a place together in the modern world?
Runtime: 1h 0m
For generations, traveller celebrations have been a family affair. In this episode we meet the Mcfadyens, a large Irish traveller family in the midst of a series of celebrations.
