The EastEnders star will reflect on events from the past year, including the ongoing Brexit debates in Westminster, where “there’s been more backstabbing than we have in Albert Square.”

He will also raise a toast to mark the 100th anniversary of both the women’s vote and the First World War Armistice.

“We’re thrilled to have Danny Dyer delivering this year’s Alternative Christmas Message,” said Tom Beck, the channel’s Head of Live Events and Commissioning Editor for Entertainment, who commissioned the programme. “From his colourful opinions on Brexit to his hilarious and moving appearance with daughter Dani on Celebrity Gogglebox, when Danny speaks, people listen. His message is full of wit, heart and just the right amount of Dyer attitude.”

Channel 4 has broadcast an alternative to the Queen’s Christmas message since 1993, and has featured a wide variety of presenters including whistleblower Edward Snowden, Iran’s president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Doreen and Neville Lawrence. Last year’s message was delivered by children who survived the Grenfell Tower disaster.

In his speech, Dyer, who is descended from William the Conqueror and Edward III, will call for more heroes and role models, such as his mum, grandmother and Harold Pinter.

“If we need anything for 2019, it’s for each of us to find who we look up to,” Dyer will say in his speech. “Could be your mum, could be your dad, your stepdad, your Nan, teacher, social worker. Maybe even a handsome roguish actor off your favourite soap.”

Danny Dyer’s Alternative Christmas Message, produced by Rumpus Media, will air on Channel 4 at 3.50pm on Christmas Day. Lovely jubbly.