James Corden Mayor of London bid? Actor reportedly mulls political move
It might sound unlikely at first, but James Corden Mayor of London is a phrase that’s now doing the rounds in political and media circles. The comedian and former Late Late Show host, who returned to the UK in 2023 after nearly a decade in Los Angeles, is reportedly considering a move into politics – and not just any role, but possibly as a future candidate for Mayor of London.
According to conversations at the recent Bafta television awards, Corden, now 46, hinted at his interest while chatting with politicians and media figures. He was introduced to the team behind the Electoral Dysfunction podcast and, by several accounts, shared how much he enjoys the “cut and thrust” of British politics. During the same event, he also reportedly spoke to political editor Beth Rigby, Labour’s Harriet Harman and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson about the idea. While nothing is official, the suggestion that he might enter the political arena, and specifically run for Mayor, seems to have been floated in earnest.
For those who know Corden mostly as Smithy from Gavin & Stacey, the idea of him stepping into City Hall may seem like a stretch. But he’s never been shy about his political leanings. After Labour’s defeat in the 2019 general election, he criticised then-leader Jeremy Corbyn and openly supported more centrist figures within the party, tweeting that Tom Watson might have changed the party’s fortunes had he been in charge.
Corden and his wife Julia moved into an £11.5 million home in north west London last year, and his reappearance in the UK cultural scene has been hard to miss. From interviews and theatre appearances to podcast shoutouts, he seems to be re-rooting himself firmly in British life. And with current Mayor Sadiq Khan expected to step down in 2028, the Labour Party will at some point need to select a successor.
The question, of course, is whether voters, particularly in London, would take a celebrity candidate seriously. The city has had high-profile political figures before, but not someone primarily known for television comedy and Hollywood hosting. Still, the idea of James Corden Mayor of London is already sparking debate, both for its novelty and for what it might say about the direction Labour could take in appealing to a broader or younger electorate.
Whether Corden makes a move remains to be seen. However, in the meantime, it wouldn’t be surprising if his name starts turning up in more political conversations, especially as the next mayoral race inches closer. For now, his admiration for those who stand for public office seems sincere, and his interest in current affairs, from UK politics to Labour leadership, isn’t entirely new.
If you’re wondering how well celebrities actually do when they step into politics, this piece from UCL’s Constitution Unit takes a look at a few who’ve tried.
For more updates on political personalities, cultural figures, and London’s future leadership, visit EyeOnLondon. We’d love to hear your views in the comments.
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