【Dear Utol (2025): Maniac Photographer Episode 26】

LONDON -- A polarizing new project to get people chatting on Dear Utol (2025): Maniac Photographer Episode 26the Tube has been largely met with staunch disapproval by Londoners, which isn't altogether surprising in a nation known for its aversion to uncomfortable social interaction.

But ironically, it seems that the badges bearing the words "Tube Chat?" have actually gotten Londoners talking -- albeit mostly via social media to express their horror at such an idea.

One of the questions many people are pondering is, who could be behind such controversy?

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Was it an initiative led by Mayor Sadiq Khan to promote a positive commuter experience?

Perhaps some edgy brand looking to cause a stir?

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Nope: it was an American.

SEE ALSO: Londoners horrified by 'Tube Chat' badge encouraging them to interact on the tube

Mashablefound and had its own quick chat with the guy who claims to be behind the badges, and it turns out he's a friendly American chap called Jon Dunne.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Dunne and his wife are currently living in London, but both are originally from small towns in the United States. Dunne works in health education for the NHS.

"It was sort of brutal."

Stressing the voluntary nature of the buttons, he seems to have been motivated by nothing more and nothing less than a genuine desire to have a more amicable experience on the Tube with other likeminded people.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Dunne handed out the first 500 buttons at Old Street station in Shoreditch. He told Mashable, "I thought it would be way more fun," but as it turns out, "it was sort of brutal."

He reports that many passerby avoided making eye contact, and he has a newfound appreciation for the plight of the unfortunate souls tasked with handing out flyers.

If you're keen to join the 'Tube Chat" movement but missed out on the first round of badges, have no fear: Dunne has ordered another 500 to hit the streets soon.

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