Popular Celebs Who Left Hollywood to Become Politicians

When we think of celebrities, we often picture the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, red carpets, and blockbuster premieres. However, some stars have traded in their scripts for speeches and their on-screen drama for a seat at the political table. From “Clueless” to the city council, these famous faces have made the jump to politics. Thus, this shows that their ambitions lie beyond the silver screen.

Stacey Dash: From “Clueless” to Conservative Crusader

Stacey Dash, better known for her role as Dionne in the iconic ’90s film “Clueless,” made headlines when she ventured into politics. Her transition from teen comedy star to staunch Republican was met with both support and surprise. Dash’s political journey has been as outspoken as her character in “Clueless,” never shying away from controversy.

Ben / IG / From Donald Trump to Ben Savage, here are the top five celebs who left Hollywood to shake up the political scene.

Her conservative views have landed her as a commentator on various news outlets where she is unapologetically voiced her opinions. While her political career has had its ups and downs, Dash’s shift from Hollywood to the Hill reflects a growing trend of celebrities. Thus, leveraging their fame to influence the political landscape.

Donald Trump: From “The Apprentice” to America’s President

Perhaps one of the most controversial and talked-about transitions from entertainment to politics is that of Donald Trump. Before his unexpected ascendancy to the Presidency, Trump was best known as the host and judge of “The Apprentice.” His catchphrase “You’re fired!” became synonymous with his brash reality TV persona.

In 2016, Trump traded the boardroom for the Oval Office, becoming the 45th President of the United States. His tenure was as unconventional as his path to power. Thus, proving that in America’s political theater, sometimes life imitates art more than we anticipate.

Trump / IG / Prior to being elected the 45th president of the U.S., Donald Trump was the host and judge of “The Apprentice.”

Ben Savage: From “Boy Meets World” to “Man Meets Politics”

“Boy Meets World” charmed a generation with its wholesome lessons and relatable characters, one of the most beloved being Cory Matthews, played by Ben Savage. After years of acting, including a reprisal of his role in the sequel series “Girl Meets World,” Savage is running for city council in California.

However, his campaign is built on the foundations of community service and engagement, reflecting the values he once portrayed on screen.

Caitlyn Jenner: Olympic Glory to Gubernatorial Bid

Caitlyn Jenner, an Olympic gold medalist and Hollywood actress known for her family’s reality show “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” announced her run for Governor of California in April 2021. Jenner’s transition from athlete to celebrity to politician was a journey of both personal and public transformation.

Caitlyn / IG / “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” crème de la crème left her acting career and entered politics in 2021.

Her gubernatorial campaign was built on a platform of fiscal conservatism and business-friendly policies, aiming to shake up California’s political status quo. While she did not win the election, Jenner’s bid for office was a statement about the role of celebrity in shaping political discourse and the potential to harness star power for political gain.

Shirley Temple: Child Star to Diplomatic Darling

Long before actors were making the transition from Hollywood to Washington, Shirley Temple, the quintessential child actress of the 1930s, set the precedent. After melting hearts with her dimples and dances, Temple retired from acting at the tender age of 22. But her life’s second act was just as impactful as she switched to U.S. politics.

Her political career was marked by significant diplomatic roles, including her ambassadorships to Ghana and Czechoslovakia.