Nicola Sturgeon Delivers Blunt Assessment of Nigel Farage in ITV Interview
Nicola Sturgeon has openly criticised Nigel Farage, describing him as her least favourite politician during a revealing appearance on ITV's interview programme, The Assembly. The former First Minister of Scotland did not hold back when questioned by the show's panel, which consists of individuals who are autistic, neurodivergent, or have learning disabilities. The format guarantees complete honesty, with no topic considered off-limits.
"He's Not Who He Pretends to Be"
When asked to name the politician she most dislikes, Sturgeon immediately singled out the Reform UK leader and MP for Clacton. "Right now, it's a hard one to choose so I'm going to go for Nigel Farage," she stated. "He's not who he pretends to be, I think he's got some really dodgy views and I think he's only interested in himself. I don't really like him. Sorry Nige." This direct condemnation highlights the ongoing tensions between prominent political figures across the UK spectrum.
Reflections on Alex Salmond and a Bitter Fallout
The 55-year-old also addressed her complicated relationship with former mentor Alex Salmond, the ex-First Minister of Scotland who passed away in 2024. Sturgeon acknowledged learning a great deal from Salmond early in her career but lamented their subsequent estrangement over sexual misconduct allegations made against him. "He was my mentor then we fell out later over certain things," she explained. "Things had gone horribly wrong between us and we weren't speaking any more and were on such bad terms."
She expressed profound sadness and grief over the unresolved conflict, noting she could not attend his funeral due to family tensions. Sturgeon revealed she wished Salmond had acknowledged before his death that she was not responsible for the complaints against him. "I would have loved at some point for him to say that but he wasn't the type of person who would ever do that," she added, underscoring the personal toll of political rifts.
Divorce, Personal Transformation, and Legal Ordeal
On the subject of her divorce from former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, Sturgeon clarified that their separation in 2024 was not solely due to his embezzlement of party funds, though it was a significant factor. "That's what everyone thinks it will be, and I'm not saying it's not a factor because when you are faced with something like that it kind of completely blows your world," she said. However, she emphasised a broader personal evolution. "I've been this very career-focused politician all my life and I'm going into a phase of life where I want to find out a bit more about who I am as a person, not just as a politician."
Sturgeon also discussed the trauma of being arrested and questioned in connection with her husband's crimes, describing it as a "horrible thing" she has tried to blank from her memory. Despite this, she denied receiving any special treatment during the process.
Lighter Moments and Personal Revelations
The interview included lighter anecdotes, such as when a panel member compared her hair to Mrs Doubtfire, prompting laughter and thoughts of a new style as she leaves politics behind. Sturgeon cryptically hinted at recent "secret rendezvous" when probed about her personal life, adding a touch of mystery to her post-political chapter.
She shared poignant details about losing a baby to miscarriage in 2011, confessing to feelings of guilt and uncertainty at the time. "At the time I didn't want people to say anything to me," she recalled tearfully. "I didn't really know how I felt about it." Additionally, Sturgeon revealed she has never eaten a deep-fried Mars bar or had Botox injections, and is considering becoming a foster carer in the future.
Embracing a New Phase of Life
Looking ahead, Sturgeon advised her younger self to "lighten up a bit and to have a bit of fun along the way," signalling a shift towards personal fulfilment. She concluded the interview by praising The Assembly experience, which featured a performance of Deacon Blue's Dignity, as "one of the most special experiences of my life." This candid discussion marks a significant moment in Sturgeon's transition from a high-profile political career to a more introspective and private life, while still engaging with public discourse through platforms like ITV.
