Josh Tapper, a former star of the popular Channel 4 show Gogglebox, has undergone significant changes in his life since he first appeared on the series at the age of 15 in 2013. Over a decade later, Tapper has transitioned from television to a political career, most notably as a prospective Labour Party candidate for Hertsmere.
From Reality TV to Public Service
The Tapper family garnered attention for their lively banter and charming personalities, quickly becoming fan favorites on Gogglebox. However, in 2017, Josh decided to leave the show to pursue an apprenticeship in the Civil Service. His departure was a pivotal moment, as he aimed to carve out a new path in government. According to a source quoted by The Mirror, “Channel 4 will, of course, keep the door open for him, but it’s a really exciting opportunity for him.” At the time, Josh was already engaging in meetings within Number 10.
Reflecting on his experience on the show, Josh told Jewish News in 2022 that the series “suddenly blew up out of nowhere” for him and his family. He described the duality of his life during those years: “I spent the next five years living that life while also trying to live a normal life.” Balancing school with filming schedules proved to be a challenge, as he noted, “But I was the guy who was on TV. My days were long as we were filming the scenes in addition to school.”
Aiming for Political Office
In 2022, Tapper announced his ambition to enter politics, declaring his candidacy for the Labour Party in the Hertsmere constituency. His excitement was evident when he shared on X (formerly Twitter): “I’m thrilled and honoured to have been selected as Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Hertsmere. Thank you so much to local members for your support – I won’t let you down. The work to unseat the Deputy Prime Minister starts now!”
In the lead-up to the 2024 elections, Josh was chosen as Labour’s candidate to challenge Oliver Dowden, who has held the seat since 2019. Despite his enthusiasm and campaign efforts, Tapper ultimately lost the election by a margin of 7,992 votes.
On a personal front, Josh recently celebrated a significant milestone in his life. In March 2025, he married his long-term girlfriend, Hannah, after being together for nine years. His sister, Amy, shared the joyful news on social media, posting a montage of images from the wedding and expressing her happiness for the couple. “The New Mr and Mrs Tapper! No words to describe this incredible day from start to finish,” she wrote, emphasizing the depth of her affection for both Josh and Hannah.
As Josh Tapper continues to navigate his new life outside of reality television, his journey reflects a compelling transformation from a beloved TV personality to a determined political figure. His aspirations in public service and recent personal milestones highlight the multifaceted nature of his current endeavors.
