Matt Hancock, the former UK Health Secretary, surprised the nation by joining the cast of ITV’s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! during his time as a sitting MP. His decision drew widespread attention and sparked heated debate across the political spectrum. Hancock stated that he wanted to use the platform to raise awareness for his dyslexia campaign and to show a more human side of himself to the public.
Aiming to Change Public Perception
Matt Hancock faced criticism after his resignation as Health Secretary in 2021 following the breach of social distancing rules during the pandemic. His appearance on I’m a Celebrity was seen by some as an attempt to repair his public image. According to those close to him, Hancock wanted his children to see him in a better light. He hoped that by participating in the show, he could present himself as authentic and relatable, rather than just a politician defined by controversy.
Support and Criticism from Colleagues
Hancock’s decision to join the reality show led to his suspension from the Conservative Party in Parliament. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other MPs expressed disappointment, arguing that Hancock should focus on his constituents rather than television. Some colleagues, like former MP Lembit Öpik, defended Hancock’s choice, suggesting he was motivated by a desire to connect with a broader audience and set a positive example for his children. However, many critics accused him of putting personal ambition ahead of public service.
The Dyslexia Campaign and Charitable Pledges
Matt Hancock has long advocated for greater awareness and support for dyslexia. He used his time on I’m a Celebrity to highlight his campaign, emphasizing that no child should leave primary school without knowing if they have dyslexia. Hancock pledged to donate a portion of his reported £400,000 show fee to charity, including a hospice in his constituency and dyslexia-related causes. He argued that the show provided a unique opportunity to reach millions of viewers and promote his message to younger generations.
Facing Challenges in the Jungle
Once in the jungle, Matt Hancock was questioned by fellow contestants about his political decisions and the events leading to his resignation. He admitted that joining the show was controversial but maintained that his intentions were genuine. Hancock faced tough conversations, with some campmates expressing their own frustrations about the pandemic and his role in government. Despite these challenges, he reached the final and finished third, with millions of viewers voting for him.
The Impact on Family and Reputation
Matt Hancock’s participation in I’m a Celebrity was partly driven by his desire to reshape how his children and the public perceive him. He wanted his family to see him as more than just a politician embroiled in scandal. Hancock’s partner, Gina Coladangelo, noted that he gradually relaxed and showed his true self as the series progressed. He believed that the show allowed him to demonstrate resilience and openness, qualities he hoped his children would admire.
Life Beyond Politics
Since his appearance on I’m a Celebrity, Matt Hancock has signalled a shift away from frontline politics. He acknowledged that his chances of returning to government were slim and appeared to embrace new opportunities outside Parliament. His time on reality TV marked a significant turning point, both for his public image and for his personal ambitions.
The Lasting Conversation Around Matt Hancock
Matt Hancock’s journey from Cabinet minister to reality TV contestant ensured that he remained a topic of national conversation. While some criticized his choices, others saw his willingness to face public scrutiny as a sign of personal growth. By using I’m a Celebrity as a platform, Hancock aimed to influence how his children and the wider public see him, hoping to be remembered for more than his political missteps.