Acting politics

Sunday night on BBC 1 sees the screening of an new drama Elizabeth is Missing. It marks the first TV acting role in 27 years for Glenda Jackson. For much of those years Glenda served as a MP. She is not the only actor to make the switch to the corridors of power.

Ronald Reagan

The most famous example is the star of such varied films as Bedtime for Bonzo and The Killers. Reagan first served as Governor of California between 1967-75 before becoming President of the USA in 1980. His tenure saw the end of the Cold War.

Arnold Schwarzenngger

The star of such action blockbusters as Predator, The Running Man and Total Recall would become Governor of California in 2003. Arnie signed into law a cap on greenhouse gas admissions the first in US history.

Clint Eastwood

Forever known for his playing numerous tough guys like Dirty Harry ran for mayor of his home town of Carmel. The reason being the then current mayor giving him hassle over offices he was building on property he owned. Clint won.