The executive producer of The Janitor, an upcoming film recreating Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s removal from public life, has addressed the production, stating the fictional drama aims to highlight “abuse of power”.
Dr Shamsa Akhtar, who is financing and producing the project through a co-production between Core Productions 1 Ltd and Big Bear Little Bear, spoke exclusively to GB News following reports that the film dramatises high-profile alleged scandals involving former public figures.
The production, directed by Zaine Zajaz, features Peaky Blinders actor Harry Kirton as a crisis publicist whose role centres on managing and concealing the scandals of influential individuals. Among its scenes is a sequence entitled “The Table of Filth,” focusing on Mr Mountbatten-Windsor.
Setting out the central themes behind the film, Dr Akhtar told the People’s Channel: “The Janitor is a fictional drama that shines a light on a very real and deeply important issue: the abuse of power.
“These themes are rooted in real-life situations that have come to light since the 1980s.
“At its heart, the film also exposes the role of publicists and enablers who work to keep these harmful truths hidden from the public.”
She claimed: “We need protection from people in power and from those who protect them instead of protecting the vulnerable.”
Dr Akhtar explained that her involvement in the subject matter is grounded in both personal history and professional background, referencing her earlier work, Sofia, alongside her role as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
Pictured: Dr Shamsa Akhtar from Core Productions (middle) and Kaine Zajaz from Big Bear Little Bear Production House (right)
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She continued: “This subject is personal to me. As a child, I was a victim of abuse and let down by the system, experiences I explored in my previous film Sofia, now available on Amazon.
“As a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and drawing from my own lived experience, I know first-hand why we must be vigilant.”
Addressing her financial and operational role in the project, Dr Akhtar said: “As full financier, Executive Producer and Producer in co-production between Core Productions 1 Ltd and Big Bear Little Bear, my goal is to create work that protects, educates, and gives a voice to those who need it. This film is a call for transparency, integrity, and accountability values that I stand by fully.”
She also praised the project’s director and creative material, stating: “I am so proud to be working with Zaine Zajaz, who has brought this production to life with a phenomenal cast of amazing actors and with a script I simply couldn’t say no to. We look forward to sharing more when the time is right.”
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Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor declined to participate in the film, it is understood, which could be released in cinemas before Christmas
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GB News has contacted Mr Mountbatten-Windsor for comment.
The comments follow reports in The Mail that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s legal team at Blackfords LLP was invited to provide his perspective before the script’s completion.
The People’s Channel contacted Blackfords LLP when those reports were first made public, but did not receive a response.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor declined to participate in the film, it is understood, which could be released in cinemas before Christmas.
Andrew was arrested and subsequently released under investigation on February 19; he has consistently denied any wrongdoing
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REUTERSThe Mail also reported that Buckingham Palace did not respond to two separate approaches by the filmmakers.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor had his royal titles removed last year due to his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
He was arrested on February 19 this year after allegations of misconduct in public office, and was later released under investigation.
The King’s brother has consistently maintained his innocence and denied any allegations of wrongdoing.