Viewers have declared a Sky News interview with comedian and candidate Count Binface as the 'greatest ever 2 minutes of television.' During the Makerfield by-election vote count, chief political correspondent Jon Craig was directed by the studio presenter to speak to the man wearing a giant trash can on his head, who was making peace signs behind him. Despite appearing reluctant, Craig turned and engaged in a two-minute conversation with the satirical character, who describes himself as an 'intergalactic election crusader.'
'Greatest 2 minutes and 44 seconds'
On X, Michael Lavelle called the segment 'the greatest 2 minutes and 44 seconds of television,' a sentiment widely echoed by users. During the exchange, Binface explained his reasons for standing: 'A) It was happening, B) I was at a loose end, C) Because I believe elected mayors should serve out their terms before they’re eligible to stand for parliament.' Craig, sounding shocked, remarked, 'Ah, you made a sensible political—you made a serious political point there.' Binface retorted, 'Well no, you’re supposed to be impartial mate, so let me carry on.'
Binface's policy proposals
Binface then outlined his platform: 'I’m going to rephrase the traffic lights on Liverpool Road. I’ll price cap Wigan kebabs at £2, I’ll make cyclists who disobey the Highway Code have to ride unicycles instead, and I’ll turn HS2 into FFS1 and reroute it…' Craig interjected, 'You’re not gonna swear are you?' Binface assured him, 'No no no, although we are past the watershed but don’t worry.' He promised he's a 'good boy' and continued, declaring he would reroute the project 'through rail executives’ homes.'
He added, 'I’m going to build at least one affordable house. I mean I could go on. What has Andy [Burnham] said he’s going to do?' When asked about his expected vote count, Binface said, 'Well, I’d be happy with one.' Craig pressed, 'Do you live in the constituency?' Binface replied, 'I do tonight,' before turning the question back on Craig. After discussing local politicians and Nigel Farage's constituency time, Binface stated, 'I swear I’ll move to Makerfield if I win.' He concluded by congratulating Craig: 'Well interviewed, well done.'
Reaction and results
Laughter was heard on location and in the studio as Craig composed himself. Binface then spoke to the Manchester Evening News, whom he cheekily called 'proper journalists.' On X, Robert Winspear called the interview 'brilliant,' and Tom Robbins declared it 'pure Partridge.' Binface, real name Jon Harvey, received 95 votes (0.21%), so he won't be moving to the North West anytime soon. Andy Burnham won the seat with more votes than all other parties combined and is expected to run in a leadership contest against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
