When it comes to calling out politicians, Marina Purkiss isn’t one to pull punches – and Jacob Rees-Mogg was firmly in her crosshairs this week. Appearing on Jeremy Vine’s Channel 5 panel, Purkiss slammed the media for treating politicians like entertainers, while delivering a sharp critique of the senior Tory and his recent reality show.
The Reality Show Nobody Asked For
The debate kicked off as Rees-Mogg’s Discovery+ programme, Meet the Rees-Moggs, was brought up – a documentary-style lifestyle show that follows the MP around his sprawling Somerset mansion. It’s safe to say it hasn’t been a ratings hit, and Purkiss couldn’t hide her frustration at how the media “sanitises” controversial politicians.
The straight-talking commentator tore into not only Rees-Mogg but other politicians turned TV stars like Nigel Farage and Nadine Dorries, accusing them of being turned into “loveable rogues” despite their political legacies.
“No, it’s not brilliant,” Purkiss said flatly when Vine tried to suggest the programme might humanise its star. “The show’s been cancelled because of low ratings. That’s good. I’m sick of the media sanitising people who have harmed this country. He’s made a lot of money, sure… but how has the rest of the country fared?”
Family Feud: Sister Defends Rees-Mogg
Sitting awkwardly beside Purkiss was Annunziata Rees-Mogg – sister to Jacob and fellow politician. Naturally, Annunziata rushed to her brother’s defence, claiming he was “a man of principle.”
But Purkiss wasn’t buying it. She challenged Jacob’s credibility, calling him out for advocating Brexit while reportedly moving his business interests out of the UK. With biting precision, she delivered her knockout line:
“You say your brother is principles-led… I disagree. He advocated for Brexit then moved his business out of the UK. He lied to people about getting cheaper food, cheaper bills, cheaper everything.”
For a moment, even Annunziata was left fumbling. In trying to defend her brother, she admitted he was “a liar” – an unintentional but telling slip-up. Ouch.
Politicians as Celebrities: Where Do We Draw the Line?
Purkiss’s broader point was clear: politicians shouldn’t be treated like reality TV stars while their actions – and their consequences – are swept under the carpet. Whether it’s I’m A Celebrity or self-indulgent documentaries, she argued these appearances “normalise” harmful policies and behaviour.
And with audiences turning their noses up at Rees-Mogg’s foray into telly, perhaps the public agrees.
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