The world of politics and entertainment has always been strangely intertwined, and now Eddie Izzard looks set to become the latest celebrity to throw their hat into the ring.
Izzard has launched a campaign to become the next MP in the constituency of Sheffield Central, regarded as one of the safest Labour seats in the UK.
The current MP, Paul Blomfield announced earlier this year that he would not be seeking re-election, which has inspired Izzard to run for the seat.
In a campaign video, Izzard announced her candidacy for the next general election, which is due to take place in December 2024 (barring a snap election being called).
Izzard being on the ballot isn't confirmed as of yet, with Izzard having to be voted in by Labour members in the constituency.
In a message on her campaign website, Izzard wrote that she wanted to “support the city that has supported me” as well as “take the fight to the Tories and get Keir Starmer into No 10."
"When I’m faced with a challenge, I work my hardest to deliver," she wrote on her campaign website.
"This next challenge is the most important of my life and I need your help."
Izzard added that Sheffield was "being held back" after 12 years of the Conservatives in power.
She said, "Sheffield has a proud history, showing grit and determination in overcoming adversities and it was the wit and generosity of the people of this city that made me feel welcome when I first arrived in 1980."
The comedian has already received support in the form of Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe, who tweeted "(there is) no brighter mind, no bigger heart. What an amazing opportunity for Sheffield."
Entertainers joining the world of politics is nothing new, with two-time Oscar winner Glenda Jackson serving as an MP for Labour between 1992 and 2015, Arnold Schwarzenegger becoming governor of California in 2003, and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy enjoying a career in comedy before being elected in 2019.
Fellow UK comedy icon Ricky Tomlinson nearly stood as an MP in the 2010 general election but plans fell through at the last minute, and the 2010 election also saw Blur drummer Dave Rowntree lose out on his bid to become an MP.
There has been no formal decision made yet as to who the candidate will be, but with Izzard's high profile and what is considered one of the safest seats in the UK, Izzard may well find herself facing off against Liz Truss before we know it.
