Raphael Rowe’s Book ‘Notorious’ Reveals Stories About His Scar And Wife


Raphael Rowe, the host of Netflix’s documentary series “Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons, spent 12 years in prison for a crime he was innocent of.

Many have been intrigued by the mysterious scar that runs down the left cheek of the British broadcaster, but none more so than Rowe himself.

Rowe, who had never before discussed the scar, has now unveiled its story in his book ‘Notorious,’ set to be published on December 20, 2020.

Rowe Reveals The Location Of His Scar’s Secret

The cast of “Pilgrimage: The Road to Santiago” has often discussed the lasting psychological impact of prison, but one aspect of Raphael Rowe’s appearance, a scar on his left cheek, has remained a mystery. His reticence on the topic has led to much speculation among fans.

Some believed the BBC journalist acquired the scar before his time in prison, while others on Reddit theorized it was a result of altercations during his 12-year sentence. Before his wrongful conviction, the 53-year-old broadcaster had previous convictions, including one for malicious wounding.

However, in July 2020, Rowe finally addressed the speculation in a tweet. He revealed that the story behind the scar would be unveiled in his upcoming book ‘Notorious.’

Encouraging people to visit his website to sign up for or order his book, he suggested that readers would discover the truth about his scar within its pages.

‘Notorious’ also includes gripping stories from his time in prison

In 2000, the media personality shared harrowing accounts of his prison experiences with the Guardian. He recounted stories of men having their skin

torn off after being scalded with boiling water. Many of these unsettling events seem to be detailed in his upcoming book, ‘Notorious.’

Describing it as a raw and unfiltered portrayal, Rowe’s website states, “For the first time, this book will take you on a brutally honest journey through my

incredible personal odyssey.” His story, intertwined with his remarkable ascent in investigative journalism, promises to be unmatched.

Rowe has been teasing snippets from the book on social media, including an encounter with a much larger and more formidable fellow prisoner. This glimpse into his past hints at the gripping, intense narrative that awaits readers.

He keeps his personal life private.

In a February 2021 interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Rowe delved into his book and the deliberate selection of life stories included within. Being naturally private, he emphasized his preference for revealing only what he deemed essential for readers to know.

Surprisingly, this book marks the first instance where he publicly acknowledges his marital status and family.

“I’ve always been a very private person. So, for example, I’ve never talked about my wife and children anywhere, at any time, so it’s the first time I reveal that I’m even married in my book.”

Prior to his wrongful conviction, Rowe had a girlfriend named Nancy Stanley, and a son who was 12 years old in 2000. These personal details, previously shielded from the public eye, now come to light within the pages of his book.

His Life Is a Life Lesson in Perseverance


In 1988, at the age of 19, Rowe was sentenced to life in prison for a wrongful conviction of murder and robbery. Enduring twelve years of incarceration, it wasn’t until 2000 that the Court of Appeal overturned the erroneous verdicts.

Upon his release from prison, he found himself estranged from the world, prompting some to ridicule his unfamiliarity with basic technology like cell phones. In a candid interview with the BBC, the Netflix star disclosed struggles in social interactions, especially with women.

Simple gestures like opening doors made him uneasy, having never performed such acts during his time in prison.

Nevertheless, Rowe took proactive steps towards rehabilitation. While behind bars, he embarked on a correspondence course in journalism, a decision that would prove pivotal in his future.

His tenacity for justice also captured the attention of numerous broadcast and print journalists during the campaign for his exoneration.

This educational pursuit not only offered him insight into the world of reporting but also enabled him to excel in the field.

Becoming the first mixed-race reporter for notable programs such as Today, The Six O’Clock News, and Panorama, Rowe quickly reestablished himself as a respected journalist.

His message, displayed prominently on his website, is one of resilience and hope: “Wherever you are in life right now, don’t think you’ll be in the same place in 5 years, because your life can and will change.”

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