In a revealing personal interview, Zack Polanski, the leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, has opened up on topics ranging from his political fears and celebrity crushes to his most unappealing habits. The 43-year-old, who was elected party leader in September, shared candid insights into his life, values, and the issues that keep him motivated.
Political Fears and Personal Admiration
When asked about his greatest fear, Polanski's answer was unequivocally political. He stated that a government led by the Reform party is his biggest concern, highlighting the stark ideological divide. In contrast, the living person he most admires is Chlöe Swarbrick, co-leader of the New Zealand Green Party, whom he credits for demonstrating the bold, progressive leadership he aspires to emulate.
Polanski, who was born David Paulden in Greater Manchester and changed his name at 18 to reflect his Jewish heritage, has a background in acting and hypnotherapy. He joined the Greens in 2017 and rose swiftly through the ranks, becoming deputy leader in 2022 before taking the top job.
Confessions and Crushes: The Lighter Side
The interview also delved into more personal territory, where Polanski made several relatable confessions. He admitted to the common modern vice of 'doomscrolling' on his phone as the trait he most deplores in himself, while criticising those who create the content that fuels such anxiety.
In a lighter moment, he revealed that his celebrity crush is the acclaimed British actor Idris Elba. He also confessed to a literary shortcoming, stating, "I'm going to confess I haven't finished The Climate Book by Greta Thunberg." At home, his 'floordrobe' – clothes piled on the floor – is his most unappealing habit.
Values, Activism, and Looking Forward
Polanski's responses consistently circled back to his core values of justice and environmentalism. What makes him unhappy ranges from large-scale injustice to the small-scale annoyance of a cafe with no plant-based options. His proudest achievement remains getting elected with 85% of the vote, and the single change he believes would most improve quality of life nationally is the introduction of proportional representation.
His activism is not just theoretical. When asked about his closest brush with the law, he cited being arrested on Waterloo Bridge during an Extinction Rebellion protest. Despite the serious challenges, he maintains an optimistic outlook, inspired by the words of the late Labour politician Tony Benn: "I don't care where you've been, I care where you're going."
Polanski, who lives in London with his partner, concluded with a message focused on legacy and love. With no children of his own, he expressed a desire to leave a livable planet for everyone's children. When offered a choice between more sex, money, or fame, he rejected them all, opting instead for "More love for everyone."
