Television personalities Gregg Wallace and John Torode, best known for their roles as judges on MasterChef, have thrown their support behind Labour MP Lisa Nandy as a potential Culture Secretary in a future government.
The duo, who have become household names through their work in food and entertainment, praised Nandy for her deep understanding of the arts and media sectors. Wallace described her as "someone who genuinely cares about culture and creativity," while Torode highlighted her "vision for supporting grassroots talent."
Why Nandy?
Lisa Nandy, the current Shadow Levelling Up Secretary, has been vocal about the importance of cultural investment in regional development. Her advocacy for fair funding distribution across the UK's creative industries appears to have resonated with the culinary stars.
Wallace told reporters: "We need someone at the helm who understands that culture isn't just about London - it's about every community in this country."
Industry Reactions
The entertainment world has welcomed this unexpected endorsement. Many see it as significant that figures from the food television world are engaging with broader cultural policy debates.
Political analysts suggest this public backing from popular TV personalities could help raise Nandy's profile among voters who might not typically engage with cultural policy discussions.
As the next general election approaches, such high-profile endorsements may play an increasingly important role in shaping public perceptions of potential cabinet members.
