Ann Widdecombe, the uncompromising former Conservative MP who later found fame as a reality television star, has died at the age of 78. She passed away peacefully at her home in Devon, her family confirmed.
Political Career
Widdecombe served as the MP for Maidstone and then Maidstone and The Weald from 1987 to 2010. She held several ministerial roles, including Minister of State for Prisons and Minister of State for Immigration, where she became known for her tough stance on law and order. She was a vocal opponent of abortion and same-sex marriage, often clashing with her own party's leadership.
Brexit Campaign and TV Fame
After leaving parliament, Widdecombe became a prominent figure in the Brexit campaign, joining the Brexit Party and serving as a Member of the European Parliament from 2019 to 2020. She later gained a new audience as a contestant on reality shows including Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother, where her no-nonsense personality made her a fan favorite.
Tributes
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “Ann was a force of nature, a politician of principle who never wavered in her convictions. She brought the same energy to the dance floor as she did to the despatch box.” Labour MP Harriet Harman added: “We disagreed on almost everything, but I always respected her tenacity and her willingness to stand up for what she believed.”
Widdecombe is survived by her brother and his family. She never married and had no children.
