Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern made a bold appearance on the iconic red couch of The Graham Norton Show, sharing an intriguing story that left viewers intrigued.
In a recent episode aired in the UK, Dame Jacinda joined an impressive lineup of guests, including the talented Kate Winslet, Seth Meyers, and Alan Carr. The show's host, Graham Norton, welcomed her with a warm introduction, acknowledging the many Kiwis who have graced the show's famous red chair.
But here's where it gets controversial... Dame Jacinda revealed a moment of intense frustration during her time as Prime Minister. She admitted to wanting to "punch" her political opponent, Simon Bridges, in the face. This revelation sparked curiosity and raised questions about the intense nature of political debates.
Norton played a clip from her documentary, "Prime Minister," where she expressed her frustration with Bridges' comment, "She doesn't do the economy," during a heated parliamentary session amid the Covid-19 pandemic. When asked why the comment was so annoying, Dame Jacinda explained the dual focus of her government's efforts to save lives and support the economy.
"I should clarify that I'm not a violent person," she added with a laugh, leaving the audience in stitches.
The conversation then shifted to Dame Jacinda's declining popularity in New Zealand. Norton asked, "What went wrong? What was the tipping point?" Ardern's response was insightful: "Politics has shifted globally, becoming more aggressive and violent. It's not just me; it's a broader shift. My plea is for people not to lose hope in politics and to expect decency and kindness.
Dame Jacinda's appearance also highlighted her remarkable journey, including the discovery of her pregnancy during post-election negotiations. Kate Winslet praised her resilience, exclaiming, "You're amazing!"
The episode, which will air in New Zealand on December 12, also featured Alan Carr's hilarious anecdote about his time in New Zealand, where he witnessed bungee jumpers screaming from the top of a hotel.
So, what do you think? Is politics becoming too aggressive, or is it a necessary evolution? Share your thoughts in the comments; we'd love to hear your perspective on this intriguing discussion.
