There was a time when only a few individuals could transition from the entertainment industry to politics, with business moguls dominating political leadership while actors like Ronald Reagan and Arnold Schwarzenegger ventured into high-ranking positions in America.
Today, having a background in television or movies can actually boost one’s political career. Tory MP Esther McVey kickstarted her career on GMTV alongside Eamonn Holmes, while Robert Kilroy-Silk moved from politics to television and back to politics. Not to forget US President Donald Trump, who gained fame through The Apprentice before taking office, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a former TV comedy star who won his country’s version of Strictly Come Dancing.
Now, reality TV personality Spencer Pratt, renowned for his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother alongside wife Heidi Montag, has declared his candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles following the destruction of their home in last year’s wildfires. Let’s delve into the stories of TV personalities who ventured into politics, including those who didn’t quite reach the top.
Starting with a near miss, Katie Price ran for MP in the Stretford and Urmston constituency under her alias Jordan, advocating for free plastic surgery and more nudist beaches. Although she didn’t win, Katie has since become a vocal advocate against online abuse, particularly focusing on disability hate crime.
Gogglebox’s Josh, part of the Tapper family on the popular show, left television to work in the government and later ran as a Labour MP in Hertsmere, Hertfordshire. Despite not winning, Josh significantly challenged the incumbent, Oliver Dowden.
Renowned British TV and stand-up comedian, Eddie Izzard, actively involved in Labour politics, made a bid to be Brighton Pavilion’s candidate in 2023 but was not selected. Tracy Brabin, previously known for her role on Coronation Street, transitioned into politics, serving as the Labour MP for Batley and Spen before becoming the Mayor of West Yorkshire.
Before his presidency, Donald Trump gained prominence as a reality TV star on The Apprentice, amassing a substantial fortune and eventually defeating Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election.
Journalist Martin Bell left his reporting career to run for office in Tatton, defeating the incumbent Neil Hamilton while famously donning his iconic white suit. TV personality Gyles Brandreth temporarily left the small screen to serve as the Tory MP for the City of Chester before returning to television.
Celebrity Big Brother alum Spencer Pratt announced his candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles at a rally sparked by the Palisades fires, emphasizing the need for change and action in the city. Alongside his wife Heidi Montag, who also lost their home in the wildfires, Spencer is determined to challenge the status quo and bring about meaningful change through his mayoral campaign.