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Bristol Today
By the People, for the People
Banksy's Lawyer Denies Identity Claim
Lawyer says Banksy 'does not accept' details in report identifying him as Robin Gunningham
Mar. 14, 2026 at 2:09am
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A lawyer for the elusive graffiti artist Banksy has responded to an investigative report that claims to have identified the artist's true identity as Robin Gunningham, a Bristol-born man who changed his name to David Jones in 2008. Banksy's lawyer Mark Stephens stated that Banksy 'does not accept that many of the details contained within your enquiry are correct' and emphasized the importance of Banksy's anonymity to protect his freedom of expression.
Why it matters
Banksy's anonymity has been a key part of his persona and artistic brand for decades. The revelation of his true identity could have significant implications for his work and the way it is perceived, as well as potential legal and security concerns given the 'fixated, threatening and extremist behavior' he has faced.
The details
The Reuters report claimed that Banksy is actually Robin Gunningham, a Bristol native who changed his name to David Jones around 2008. However, Banksy's former manager Steve Lazarides stated that the name Gunningham is 'a straight dead end' and that he had arranged for the artist to change his legal name when they parted ways in 2008, though he did not disclose Banksy's new legal moniker.
- The Reuters report identifying Banksy as Robin Gunningham was published on March 13, 2026.
- Banksy is reported to have changed his legal name to David Jones around 2008.
The players
Banksy
The world-famous graffiti artist who has maintained his anonymity for decades.
Mark Stephens
Banksy's longtime lawyer who responded to the report identifying Banksy's identity.
Robin Gunningham
A Bristol-born man who is claimed to be the true identity of Banksy, according to the Reuters report.
David Jones
The name that Robin Gunningham allegedly changed to around 2008.
Steve Lazarides
Banksy's former manager who stated that the name Gunningham is 'a straight dead end' and that he had arranged for Banksy to change his legal name when they parted ways in 2008.
What they’re saying
“Banksy 'does not accept that many of the details contained within your enquiry are correct'.”
— Mark Stephens, Banksy's lawyer (Reuters)
“Working anonymously or under a pseudonym serves vital societal interests. It protects freedom of expression by allowing creators to speak truth to power without fear of retaliation, censorship or persecution—particularly when addressing sensitive issues such as politics, religion or social justice.”
— Mark Stephens, Banksy's lawyer (Reuters)
“The name you've got I killed years ago. There is no Robin Gunningham. Life-wise, you'll never find him.”
— Steve Lazarides, Banksy's former manager (Reuters)
The takeaway
Banksy's anonymity remains a crucial part of his artistic identity and brand, allowing him to freely express himself on sensitive political and social issues without fear of retaliation. Despite attempts to uncover his true identity, Banksy and his team remain committed to preserving his anonymity and the integrity of his work.
