Andy Burnham is poised to become the UK's next Prime Minister after Keir Starmer's resignation, with the Labour Party setting a leadership contest timeline that appears to have Burnham as the only serious contender. The newly elected Makerfield MP enjoys broad support within the party, including from Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell and Housing Secretary Steve Reed, who have indicated a coronation rather than a contested race.
Burnham's Economic Vision and Criticism
In a key address in Manchester on June 29, Burnham outlined his plans for the economy and devolution. However, his speech was met with criticism, most notably from Jeremy Clarkson. When asked on X if Burnham would be worse than Starmer, Clarkson replied bluntly: "Yes."
Celebrity Supporters
Despite the backlash, Burnham has garnered support from several high-profile celebrities.
Hugh Grant
The 65-year-old actor, known for Bridget Jones, appeared at a Burnham campaign rally on June 17 in Stubshaw Cross Club, Ashton-in-Makerfield, alongside Steve Coogan.
Steve Coogan
The 60-year-old actor, famous for Alan Partridge, appeared in a campaign video for Burnham. In the video, Burnham mentions losing the poster war, and Coogan jokes: "Andy wanted a slightly classier celebrity to endorse his campaign, but he had to put up with me instead."
Carol Vorderman
The former Countdown star, 65, expressed her joy at Burnham's by-election win in an Instagram video. She said: "I'm so happy... Burnham wins resoundingly by about 55% of the vote. Isn't that fantastic?" She added that Burnham would think about places outside the South East, calling him "marvellous" for prime minister.
Sally Lindsay
The former Coronation Street actor, a Mancunian, supported Burnham in a video ahead of the by-election. She stated: "I've supported Andy for years. I think he's a very singular politician who really, really cares about the people he's working for. And I don't know many politicians that give part of their salary to what they passionately believe in, which is homelessness. I will support Andy till the end of time."
