Reggie Kray, born on October 24, 1933, in London, England, was one half of the infamous Kray Twins. He was the younger of the two twins, with Ronnie being born ten minutes later. Reggie also had an older brother named Charlie. From a young age, Reggie showed a talent for boxing and quickly rose through the amateur ranks, becoming a successful boxer in his teens.
Reggie's life took a different turn when he was conscripted into the army. Along with his brother Ronnie, Reggie promptly deserted the army and found himself in military prison due to their behavior. It was during this time that the twins began their descent into the world of crime.
Reggie and Ronnie Kray, along with their gang known as The Firm, established a criminal enterprise in London during the 1950s and 1960s. The Krays quickly became influential figures, owning popular nightclubs and rubbing shoulders with celebrities like Frank Sinatra. Their notoriety only grew as they engaged in illegal activities and acts of violence.
In 1967, Reggie Kray committed one of the most infamous acts of violence associated with the Krays. He murdered gang associate Jack McVitie, stabbing him to death after his gun failed to fire. This brutal act of violence would ultimately lead to the downfall of the Krays, as it resulted in their arrest and conviction.
Following the murder of Jack McVitie, Reggie and Ronnie Kray were sentenced to life imprisonment. Despite being incarcerated, Reggie managed to find love and married Roberta Jones while still in prison. Sadly, Reggie's time outside of prison was short-lived as he was diagnosed with cancer. He was granted compassionate release in 2000 but passed away two months later.
The legacy of the Kray Twins continues to captivate the public imagination. Their story of crime, violence, and celebrity status has been immortalized in books, films, and documentaries. Reggie Kray may have been a criminal, but his impact on popular culture is undeniable.