Grant adds his stardust to this extraordinary by-election

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Actor Hugh Grant made a surprise visit to Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s campaign office ahead of the Makerfield by-election, following comedian Steve Coogan’s endorsement of the Labour candidate. Their involvement highlights shared concerns about press accountability, with both figures supporting renewed investigation into media ethics through the stalled Leveson Inquiry and challenging perceived media bias.

Hollywood actor Hugh Grant made an unexpected appearance at Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s campaign headquarters on Wednesday, marking a high-profile moment in the intense Makerfield by-election race. Grant’s visit came just a day before polling, following a previous endorsement from comedian Steve Coogan, a well-known Labour supporter with local ties to Manchester.

While Coogan’s backing was anticipated, given his established connection to the party and the region, Grant’s involvement drew significant attention. The actor is known for his advocacy in media reform, notably through the Hacked Off campaign, which seeks to address press misconduct and enhance media accountability.

Observers within the Labour Party suggest that Grant and Burnham share a mutual interest in the unfinished business of the Leveson Inquiry—a public investigation into press ethics and the relationship between the media, police, and politicians, launched after the phone hacking scandal involving the News of the World. The inquiry’s first phase concluded in 2012, but its second stage, intended to examine potentially improper ties between the press and law enforcement, was ultimately cancelled.

Burnham has been a vocal proponent of continuing the inquiry, known as Leveson 2, during his tenure as shadow home secretary in 2016. Labour insiders speculate that a Burnham-led government might seek to revive this effort, a prospect that has prompted concern in certain media quarters, including both investigative journalists and tabloid outlets. Grant’s prominent role in Hacked Off suggests a shared commitment to renewed scrutiny of press practices.

In addition to their aligned views on Leveson, Labour sources indicate that Burnham and Grant also share perspectives critical of perceived bias within the BBC. These commonalities could strengthen their collaboration on media-related issues going forward.

The convergence of political and cultural figures in this high-stakes by-election underscores the unusual nature of the contest, signaling a wider discussion about the future of media regulation and political accountability in the United Kingdom.