In a historic moment for British culture and the global Nigerian diaspora, Joseph Junior Adenuga, known worldwide as Skepta, has been named British GQ's first-ever Man of the Year. The announcement came on November 12, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the magazine's tradition of honoring influential figures.
From Tottenham to Global Recognition
The 43-year-old Tottenham-born artist joins an elite group of previous honorees that includes Anthony Joshua, David Beckham, Jared Leto, and Paul Mescal. What sets this year apart is GQ's decision to launch its inaugural "Men of the Year" edition, with Skepta leading the prestigious lineup.
As part of GQ's 2025 collection highlighting "The People Who Shaped Culture," Skepta stands alongside other cultural forces including Lewis Capaldi, Jack O'Connell, and Tom Hiddleston. His feature in the magazine captures an artist fully embracing what he describes as "legacy mode" - a phase focused on building lasting impact beyond immediate success.
The Multifaceted Career of a Cultural Architect
Born to Nigerian immigrants, Skepta has spent two decades shaping British sound and style across multiple creative domains. The rapper, producer, and fashion designer has evolved from his early grime days with anthems like "Shutdown" and "That's Not Me" to establishing his fashion label Mains, demonstrating that his influence extends far beyond the music studio.
What truly distinguishes Skepta's approach is his commitment to uplifting the next generation. His phone wallpaper once displayed the powerful statement: "The meaning of life is to make it easier for the next generation" - a philosophy he actively embodies through his work.
Through initiatives like the Big Smoke Festival in South London, he creates platforms that unite established artists with emerging talent, challenging the industry's tendency toward gatekeeping. "Old people are always gonna be old people," he remarks, dismissing outdated notions of artistic exclusion. "There ain't no gatekeepers. Whoever thinks they're a gatekeeper needs to look again at that gate."
Fork & Knife: The Next Chapter
Fans eagerly anticipating new music from the artist won't have to wait much longer. Skepta's upcoming album, Fork & Knife, is scheduled for release in early 2026 and promises to be a career-defining project.
The album delves deeply into themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience. One notable track, "Deadlines", explores the complex reality of being the child of Nigerian immigrants in Britain - capturing both the pressure and pride that comes with this position. The line "Adenuga, the Black royal family" pays homage to his influential family, including his parents Ify and Joseph Sr., broadcaster sister Julie, fellow MC brother Jme, and designer brother Jason.
The album's title originates from a poignant family story. Skepta recalls his mother sharing how her father once saw fine cutlery in a hotel and declared, "We have to work hard, so one day we'll eat with fork and knife." This narrative of aspiration and transformation forms the album's emotional core.
"I wanted my album to be that liberating album of immigrant trauma that was transformed into hyperfocus and success," Skepta explains, highlighting how his family's journey has shaped his artistic vision.
Evolution and Legacy Building
The GQ feature reveals an artist who has grown profoundly self-aware through experiences with fame, fatherhood, and the pursuit of legacy. Skepta acknowledges periods of creative burnout driven by the relentless immigrant work ethic, while learning to balance ambition with mindfulness.
His creative approach remains refreshingly authentic. "Lip service is the cheapest form of expression," he states, emphasizing action over empty promises. This philosophy drives his exploration beyond music into fashion, film, and production work for other artists.
Despite his expanding creative horizons, Skepta maintains that live performance remains his ultimate passion. "Ten minutes before I get on that stage, I'm fried," he confesses. "As soon as I get on that stage and I hear my music, the energy has full control."
At the heart of Skepta's story is the Adenuga family legacy. His Nigerian immigrant parents instilled a powerful work ethic in their children, and Skepta has transformed this foundation into artistic innovation, opportunity creation, and cultural impact.
"I wouldn't want my kids to grow up and think that their dad wasn't living his truth," he reflects, highlighting how fatherhood has reshaped his perspective on legacy and authenticity.
From the streets of Tottenham to the pages of British GQ, Skepta's journey demonstrates that true legacy isn't about confinement to a single identity or genre. It's about expanding one's vision while ensuring the next generation inherits better opportunities and clearer paths forward.
