Andy Burnham, the soon-to-be new prime minister according to Labour MPs, has thrown his support behind Count Binface, declaring the satirical independent candidate is "carrying the hopes of a nation" in the upcoming Clacton by-election against Nigel Farage. The former Greater Manchester Mayor made the playful political gag during a surprise appearance at the O2 Silver Clef Awards in London on Thursday night, while presenting the Legend award to Manchester band James.
Burnham's Joke Draws Laughter at Royal Albert Hall
Addressing the crowd which included celebrities like Richard E Grant and Lily Allen, Burnham quipped: "Now, the legends who we are here to honour, they have not shied away from politics in their career, but I promise you, I am not going to talk politics tonight, except to say...Count Binface, you are carrying the hopes of the nation, don't let us down!" The joke drew howls of laughter from the Royal Albert Hall audience.
Burnham, who took another step towards becoming the next PM after a majority of Labour MPs nominated him to replace Sir Keir Starmer, made the remark amid the Clacton by-election where main political parties have refused to participate, leaving Count Binface and Nigel Farage as key contenders.
Fan of James Band Honoured at Silver Clefs
Burnham is a huge fan of the band James and asked for their permission to use their 1993 hit "Sometimes" in a promo video during the Makerfield by-election. According to organisers, the MP "jumped at the chance" to present the Legend award to them. On stage, he said it was an honour to present the award "particularly as it wouldn't normally be given to a recently elected backbench MP."
James, best known for their hit "Sit Down," became friendly with Burnham after meeting at their Co-Op Live concert in Manchester earlier this year. An insider said the band "were delighted that he made the time to come and speak so brilliantly about his love for the band."
Burnham Overshadows Superstars at Event
Burnham was the talk of the Silver Clefs, even overshadowing superstar names like P!nk, as audience members queued to congratulate him and take selfies with him. The event, held at the Royal Albert Hall, celebrated music legends but Burnham's political future and his backing of Count Binface became the main topic.
Count Binface, the self-styled "intergalactic space warrior" and "leader of the Recyclons," has become an unlikely political figure after the main political parties refused to take part in the Clacton by-election. His campaign against Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has garnered significant attention.
