Vinnie Jones, once notorious on the football pitch for his aggressive playing style and dubbed the 'Human Rottweiler,' has transformed into a respected actor, with his performance in the Netflix series 'The Gentlemen' drawing significant praise. The show, which has topped charts worldwide, sees Jones portraying Geoff, a gamekeeper and occasional hitman, a role lauded for its blend of vulnerability and humility.
Jones's transition from professional football to acting began with his role in Guy Ritchie's 1998 film 'Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels.' His portrayal of debt collector Big Chris in the heist movie, which also launched the career of Jason Statham, made him an emblematic face of the film. He continued to work with Ritchie in 'Snatch' and achieved wider recognition in American films like 'Gone In 60 Seconds' and as Juggernaut in 'X-Men: The Last Stand.' He is set to reunite with Statham in Ritchie's upcoming film 'Viva La Madness.'
A Controversial Football Career
During his time in professional football in the 1980s and 1990s, Jones was frequently involved in on-field altercations and off-field incidents. His aggressive tactics, including a infamous crotch grab on Paul Gascoigne during a 1988 match, earned him a reputation as a thug and an enforcer. The Wimbledon defender was a key player in the team known as the 'Crazy Gang,' winning the FA Cup in 1988.
His notoriety extended to incidents such as biting a Fleet Street reporter's nose in 1995 and a violent confrontation with a neighbor in 1998, which led to charges of assault and criminal damage. These events contributed to his 'Human Rottweiler' moniker. Jones has attributed some of his past anger to heavy drinking and the breakup of his parents' marriage. He left home at 16 and found early work as a groundsman before being invited to play for Wealdstone FC, eventually moving to Wimbledon for £10,000.
Despite his on-field persona, Jones has also been recognized for acts of bravery, including administering CPR to a choking diner at a golf club in 2019. His former wife, Tanya, once described him as sensitive and generous, contrasting with his public image.
Personal Life and Loss
Jones married his childhood sweetheart Tanya in 1994. She had a daughter, Kaley, from a previous marriage, whom Jones adopted. Tanya had a history of health issues, including heart failure, a heart transplant, cervical cancer, and skin cancer, and died seven years ago at the age of 53. Jones is currently in a relationship with producer Emma Ford.