Stars Trying Their Hand at Politics: A Mixed Bag of Success

Spencer Pratt's recent announcement to run for mayor of Los Angeles has sparked conversations about celebrities venturing into politics. He made this bold move on January 7, 2026, during a public demonstration marking the first anniversary of the Palisades Fire. Pratt, who is 42 years old, criticized the current system, calling it fundamentally broken and designed to favor those at the top. He emphasized that his campaign is more than just a political run; it's a mission to expose and challenge the system. Pratt isn't the first celebrity to step into the political arena. Jerry Springer, known for his talk show, served on the Cincinnati city council and even became the mayor. Kanye West, the famous rapper, attempted a presidential run in 2020 but didn't succeed. Ronald Reagan, a Hollywood actor, became the 40th U. S. president in 1984 after serving as California's governor. Donald Trump, a reality star and businessman, won the presidency in 2016 and again in 2024. Other notable figures include Roseanne Barr, who ran for president in 2012 under the Green Party, and Cynthia Nixon, who attempted to become New York's governor but lost the Democratic primary. Shirley Temple, a beloved child star, ran for the California State Senate in 1967 and later became a U. S. ambassador. Sonny Bono, known for his music career with Cher, served as a U. S. House Representative and was the mayor of Palm Springs.Al Franken, a comedian and talk show host, became a senator from Minnesota but stepped down after facing allegations of sexual assault. Herschel Walker ran for the Georgia Senate in 2022 but was defeated. Caitlyn Jenner, known for her Olympic career and reality TV, ran for California governor in 2021. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a famous actor, was elected as California's governor in 2003 and served until 2011. Howard Stern, a radio and TV host, was a Libertarian nominee for New York governor in 1994 but withdrew after being required to share his financial information. Stephen Colbert, a comedian and late-night host, tried to run for president but was denied a spot on the ballot in South Carolina. The trend of celebrities entering politics raises questions about their qualifications and motivations. While some have succeeded, others have faced significant challenges and criticism. It's a reminder that transitioning from entertainment to politics is not always smooth or successful.