Politics

John Bercow ‘to star in new series of The Traitors US’

Former House of Commons Speaker John Bercow is reportedly starring in the upcoming series of TV show The Traitors US, alongside Love Island winner Ekin-Su Culculoglu.

The former MP will feature alongside reality TV stars from Big Brother, Dancing With The Stars and RuPaul’s Drag Race, according to media reports.

Marcus Jordan, the son of basketball ace Michael Jordan, will also feature in the show, which is in its second season.

John Bercow was accused of throwing a mobile phone and swearing at officials (Victoria Jones/PA)

While a date has not yet been released, the Peacock TV show, produced by Studio Lambert, will reportedly return to television screens early next year.

The show, which is set in a remote castle in the Scottish Highlands, sees players divided into the “faithful” and a smaller group of “traitors” – whose goal is to eliminate the other contestants and win up to £203,000 (205,000 dollars) themselves.

It is hosted by Scottish actor Alan Cumming, who is reportedly set to introduce his dog Lala this season as his sidekick.

Mr Bercow quit as  Commons Speaker in 2019 after a decade.

Last year a Commons Independent Expert Panel report upheld a finding that he was a “serial bully” and said he should never again be allowed a parliamentary pass.

The ex-Speaker was accused of throwing a mobile phone and swearing at officials.

The man: John Bercow

John Bercow is a British politician who made a significant impact on the country’s political landscape through his career as a Member of Parliament (MP) and as the Speaker of the House of Commons. Born on January 19, 1963, in Edgware, London, Bercow’s journey in politics was marked by his distinctive style and contributions to the democratic process.

Bercow’s early life was marked by a passion for politics and public speaking. He attended Finchley Manorhill School and later the University of Essex, where he studied government and politics. His interest in the Conservative Party led him to become a member of the right-wing Conservative Monday Club during his university years, a position he later distanced himself from as his political views evolved.

Bercow’s political career officially began when he was elected as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Buckingham in 1997. Over the years, he gained recognition for his eloquence and sharp debating skills, quickly rising through the ranks of the Conservative Party. He held various shadow cabinet positions, including Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, before his appointment as Speaker of the House of Commons in 2009.

As Speaker, John Bercow became one of the most recognisable figures in British politics. His tenure was marked by a commitment to parliamentary reform and the assertion of the House of Commons’ independence. He was known for his colorful language, often reprimanding unruly Members of Parliament with his signature catchphrase, “Order! Order!” Bercow’s tenure also saw him overseeing crucial parliamentary events, such as the debates on Brexit and other contentious issues.

One of Bercow’s most significant contributions as Speaker was his dedication to ensuring that the voices of all MPs were heard, regardless of their political affiliation. He championed backbenchers’ rights and encouraged robust debates in the House of Commons.

However, Bercow’s time as Speaker was not without controversy. He faced criticism from some quarters for perceived bias, especially during the Brexit debates, where some accused him of favoring Remain-supporting MPs. Nonetheless, his role as Speaker solidified his place in British political history.

In 2019, John Bercow stepped down as Speaker and subsequently left the Conservative Party to become an independent MP. He did not seek re-election in the December 2019 general election, effectively ending his parliamentary career. Since leaving office, Bercow has written a memoir, “Unspeakable,” where he reflects on his time as Speaker and shares his perspectives on the state of British politics.

John Bercow’s life and career have been marked by his unwavering dedication to the British parliamentary system and his desire to see it function at its best. His time as Speaker will be remembered as a period of significant change and debate within the House of Commons, making him a prominent figure in modern British political history.

You may also like: Hunt says tax cuts ‘virtually impossible’ in blow to Tory right

Published by
Tags: John Bercow