Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern made a memorable appearance on the iconic British talk show, The Graham Norton Show, sharing an intriguing story that left audiences intrigued. In a candid moment, she revealed a desire to "punch" her political opponent, Simon Bridges, during a tense parliamentary session in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis.
The episode, which aired in the UK and is set to be broadcast in New Zealand on December 12, featured Dame Jacinda alongside renowned actress Kate Winslet, US talk show host Seth Meyers, and comedian Alan Carr. The former Prime Minister's presence on the show coincided with the release of her autobiographical film, Prime Minister, in the UK and Ireland on December 5.
Host Graham Norton welcomed Dame Jacinda with a warm introduction, acknowledging the many New Zealanders who have graced the show's famous red couch. In a lighthearted exchange, Dame Jacinda clarified her seating arrangement, ensuring she was on the couch and not the red chair, a reference to the show's iconic seating arrangement.
"New Zealanders are known for their storytelling prowess and their shamelessness," she quipped, setting the tone for an engaging conversation.
During the show, Norton played a clip from Dame Jacinda's documentary, where she expressed her frustration with Simon Bridges' comment, "she doesn't do the economy." This remark, made during a heated parliamentary session, prompted Dame Jacinda to reveal her inner thoughts of wanting to "punch" him.
Norton probed further, asking why the comment was so irritating. Dame Jacinda explained that her government's focus was on both the health and economic aspects of the pandemic, believing that their response to Covid-19 was also the best approach for the economy.
"I should clarify, I'm not a violent person," she added, eliciting laughter from the audience.
The conversation then turned to Dame Jacinda's popularity decline in New Zealand, with Norton inquiring about the tipping point. She attributed it to a global shift in politics, becoming more aggressive and violent, and urged people not to lose hope in the prospect of better politics.
"Expect decency and kindness in politics," she emphasized, "and I believe we will return to those values."
Kate Winslet also praised Dame Jacinda for her resilience, particularly during the post-election negotiations when she discovered she was pregnant before officially becoming Prime Minister. Winslet gushed, "Oh my god, she's so amazing! You're incredible!"
Dame Jacinda humorously acknowledged the compliment, joking that Winslet could have easily said, "That's terrible planning!"
The episode also featured a lighthearted moment when comedian Alan Carr asked about bungee jumping in New Zealand. Dame Jacinda directed him to Sky City in Auckland, where guests can bungee jump from the top of the Sky Tower. Carr shared a hilarious anecdote about his experience, leaving the audience in stitches.
The episode promises to be a captivating watch, offering a unique glimpse into the life and perspectives of Dame Jacinda Ardern. Don't miss it when it airs on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+ on December 12.
What are your thoughts on Dame Jacinda's revelation? Do you think her perspective on politics is a refreshing change? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
