In the past, transitioning from entertainment to politics was uncommon, with business moguls dominating political landscapes while actors like Ronald Reagan and Arnold Schwarzenegger led the way in America. However, today, a background in television or film can actually enhance one’s political prospects. For instance, Tory MP Esther McVey started her career on GMTV, and Robert Kilroy-Silk moved from politics to TV and back again. Notably, US President Donald Trump gained fame on The Apprentice before his political career, while Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky was a TV comedy star who won a local version of Strictly Come Dancing.
Reality TV personality Spencer Pratt, known for his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother with wife Heidi Montag, recently announced his candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles following the destruction of their home in last year’s wildfires. Let’s explore the journeys of other TV personalities who ventured into politics.
Katie Price, known for standing as an MP under her modeling name Jordan in the Stretford and Urmston constituency, advocated for free plastic surgery and nudist beaches but did not win. However, she has since become a vocal advocate against online abuse, especially disability hate crimes. Gogglebox’s Josh Tapper transitioned from the show to a role in government and later ran as a Labour MP in Hertsmere, Hertfordshire.
Comedian Eddie Izzard, a longtime Labour activist, campaigned for a political position but was not selected. Tracy Brabin, known for her role in Coronation Street, served as a Labour MP and is now the Mayor of West Yorkshire. Notably, Donald Trump, a former reality TV star, transitioned into politics successfully, winning the US presidency in 2016.
BBC news reporter Martin Bell left his reporting career to run for office in Tatton against Neil Hamilton. Television presenter Gyles Brandreth also briefly left TV to serve as a Tory MP before returning to the screen. Spencer Pratt’s mayoral bid in Los Angeles comes after his home was destroyed in wildfires, emphasizing his commitment to effecting change in the city.