Former pop star Holly Valance has emerged as a prominent figure in radical-right circles, credited with encouraging Nigel Farage to stand as an MP and raising millions for Donald Trump. The 41-year-old and her husband, property tycoon Nick Candy, 51, have become increasingly influential in British and American politics, hosting a major Trump fundraiser in Chelsea that raised over $3 million (£2.4 million).
Valance, who first gained fame as Felicity Scully in the Australian soap Neighbours, has pivoted sharply to the right. At the PopCon convention in February, she told GB News: 'Everyone starts off as a lefty and then wakes up at some point' realising 'what crap ideas they all are.' She also expressed support for Jacob Rees-Mogg as prime minister.
The couple have socialised with Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, attended Liz Truss's PopCon, and frequently visited Boris and Carrie Johnson. Valance said she had been 'whispering in [Farage's] ear for a long time' about standing for office and donated 'a substantial cheque' to Reform UK after his announcement.
Despite rumours she might stand for Reform in Basildon and Billericay, Valance said being an MP 'would be a tough job' that 'deserves your full attention,' and she is not prepared to take time away from her two young daughters. However, a veteran Brexiter expressed confidence she would run in the next election.
Valance's half-sister Olympia distanced herself from Holly's views, saying they do not reflect her own opinions. Meanwhile, Candy, who has donated at least £290,000 to the Conservatives, described Keir Starmer as 'a decent man with good values and morals,' highlighting differing political views within the marriage.
