Hugh Grant teases career change despite ‘terrifying’ prior backlash, Internet says ‘stick to acting’
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a surprising revelation, actor Hugh Grant has hinted at a potential career shift into politics, despite facing "terrifying" abuse in the past when delving into the realm of public affairs.
The 63-year-old actor, known for his superlative performances on screen, shared his thoughts on the possibility of entering the political arena in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
Hugh Grant considers career change
Grant admitted that the idea of transitioning into politics had crossed his mind but highlighted the daunting challenges involved in effecting real change.
He cited previous experiences where he faced severe backlash, describing the abuse as "really extreme and shocking" and expressing concerns about the impact it could have on his family.
He said: "[Switching into politics] has crossed my mind. But what I really see close up is that it's almost impossible to actually get anything done. It's just impossible."
He continued: "I've had a bit of it before but this was really extreme and shocking and threatening to one's family."
Grant further added: "You've got to bring so many people with you. My wife's mother is a politician. She was quite senior in the Swedish Parliament. Whenever the subject comes up, she just says, 'Don't. You have to water down everything. It's all horse trading. And nowadays the incoming abuse is unthinkable'."
Reflecting on the advice from his mother-in-law, Susanne Eberstein, a former Swedish politician, Grant acknowledged the complexities and compromises inherent in political life.
Grant's interest in politics stems partly from his involvement in campaigning during the 2019 General Election. Despite advocating for tactical voting to prevent a Conservative majority and halt Brexit, he admitted to performing poorly and facing defeat in every constituency.
The experience left a mark on Grant, who described the abuse received from the right-wing as a testament to the challenges posed by digital age politics.
"What was interesting was the abuse that came in from the right. I never know if they're real or if they're bots. But they're good. They're brilliant at what they do. And it was absolutely terrifying," he said.
Amid his deliberation on a potential career change, Grant is set to reunite with Colin Firth in the upcoming fourth installment of the 'Bridget Jones' franchise. Both actors have agreed to reprise their roles as Daniel Cleaver and Mark Darcy, respectively, alongside Renee Zellweger.
The news of their return has been met with enthusiasm from the film's directors, signaling a promising addition to the beloved series.
Mixed reactions to Hugh Grant's potential political aspirations
Hugh Grant's recent contemplation of a potential career shift into politics has sparked a variety of reactions from online commentators, with opinions ranging from skepticism to outright opposition.
A social media user commented, "All I know about Hugh is that he is against Brexit and wants to be able to stop the press reporting on things that he wants to keep private. I don't think politics is for him."
Another commenter took a more critical stance towards Grant, saying, "Hugh Grant is actually quite nasty. Politics probably suits him though. Perhaps he could reveal the number of children he has no contact with and fathered."
Another reader wrote, "Good lord no! Please stick to acting."
Another commenter called for a return to politicians with practical real-life experience outside of politics saying, "Whichever side of politics he chooses I rather that we return to an era of politicians who have actually had a job, know what real work is and understand a life before politics over the so called professional politicians we have today."
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
