From Gavin and Stacey to City Hall? James Corden ‘considering bid to become Mayor of London’

James Corden is reportedly considering a move into politics, with the former host of The Late Late Show said to be interested in running for Mayor of London.

Corden, who returned to the UK last year after spending eight years in Los Angeles, allegedly discussed the idea during conversations at the Bafta TV awards last weekend.

The 46-year-old, known for his role as Smithy in Gavin and Stacey, has previously expressed his political opinions but has never pursued a public office.

At the Baftas, Corden was introduced to the hosts of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast and reportedly mentioned his interest in politics to Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, former Labour deputy leader Harriet Harman, and former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson.

An observer told the Mail on Sunday: "James mentioned that he regularly listens to their podcast and enjoys the intensity of political debate. He clearly respects those who run for office, and it was suggested that he should consider entering politics and possibly run for Mayor of London."

Current Mayor Sadiq Khan, who was first elected in 2016, secured a third term last year and is expected to step down in 2028, prompting Labour to seek a new candidate.

Corden, who is believed to be a Labour supporter, criticized Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership after the party’s 2019 general election loss, suggesting Tom Watson could have led the party to victory.

Since returning to the UK, Corden and his wife Julia purchased an £11.5 million home in northwest London.