Matt Hancock Goes on a Reality TV Adventure
In a move that shocked the political scene and amused the public, former UK health minister Matt Hancock decided to trade Parliament for a season of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! on November 2.
Why He Put His MPs Badge on Hold
- Backed by the Conservative whip, Hancock was suspended after the Cambridge Sun revealed he’d swapped the House of Commons for an Australian jungle showdown.
- While the hacks‑and‑snakes challenge is all about “eating insects” and “living with snakes and spiders,” Hancock’s justification was “a great opportunity to talk directly to people.”
- He laughed off the criticism by saying he “hasn’t lost his marbles or had one too many drinks.”
Fueling the Fire
Hancock’s stint as the country’s Covid‑19 front‑liner came to an end last year after he was filmed kissing an adviser, violating the very lockdown rules he wrote. That was the spark that rolled the gold‑plated kettle toward reality TV.
He argued:
“While there will undoubtedly be those who think I shouldn’t go, it’s a great chance to speak straight to folks who aren’t always engaged in politics… even if they care deeply about how we run the country.”
“We politicians should go to the people, not stay in ivory towers.”
Back‑Stirring & Giggles
- Chief Whip Simon Hart said it was a “serious matter” that warranted an immediate suspension.
- Deputy chair Andy Drummond, on the other hand, flippantly mentioned he was “looking forward to him eating a kangaroo’s penis.”
- Even Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesman was not shy about calling for MPs to “embrace popular culture” amid Britain’s cost‑of‑living crisis.
What’s Next for Hancock?
Despite being thousands of miles from Westminster, Hancock remains an MP and will stay paid while on the show. He intends to keep a bright‑eye on the future by saying:
- “Politicians must wake up and embrace popular culture.”
- “Reality TV is a powerful tool to reach the younger crowd.”
He’s set to co‑star with pop star Boy George, ex‑England rugby player Mike Tindall (the queen’s grandson’s husband), England footballer Jill Scott, and other high‑profile celebrities. The set is ready for drama, laughter, and the inevitable “learn‑to‑live‑with‑snakes” tests.
