Mystery artist Banksy confirms his first name in resurfaced BBC clip
Graffiti artist Banksy has kept his identity a closely guarded secret for decades, but the world may now be halfway to knowing the truth.
When asked if he goes by "Robert Banks" in a lost but recently resurfaced BBC interview from 20 years ago, Banksy admitted: "It's Robbie."
Banksy is best known for his political graffiti artworks painted across the globe, often featuring rats, children, policemen and soldiers.
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People have dismantled entire walls to get their hands on Banksy artworks. Photo by Stefano Guidi / Getty Images
There have been many investigations into the elusive artist's identity, but no one has been able to confirm who Banksy is, so far.
Massive Attack's Robert Del Naja, who hails from the English city of Bristol, where Banksy began his career spray-painting buildings, has been suspected in the past, but nothing conclusive has ever been proven.
In 2008, the Daily Mail claimed to have unmasked Banksy as Robin Gunningham, a then-34-year-old former public schoolboy.
Banksy has denied those claims.
The lost interview audio was released by BBC Radio 4 for its podcast, The Banksy Story, which documents the shadowy figure's rise from secretive street artist to international icon.
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An artwork by Banksy on the side of a garage depicts a child dressed for snow playing in the falling ash and smoke from a skip fire, in Port Talbot, Wales. AAP
Banksy has become one of the world's best-known artists, and wildly rich.
He has made millions from his often politically charged work, which is sought after by many celebrity art enthusiasts such as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.
His mischievous and often satirical images include two policemen kissing, armed riot police with yellow smiley faces and a chimpanzee with a sign bearing the words, "Laugh now, but one day I'll be in charge".
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