Andy Burnham has officially become the United Kingdom’s new Prime Minister. This marks a major milestone in his political career after years in public life. While many know him as the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham had already become a familiar face on British television long before moving into 10 Downing Street.
From debates during the COVID-19 pandemic to interviews where he was repeatedly asked about his national ambitions, several of his TV appearances became talking points across the UK.
‘Greater Manchester Will Not Be Bullied’: Andy Burnham
One of Burnham’s most talked about television appearances came on BBC Breakfast in October 2020 during the dispute over Covid restrictions and funding for Greater Manchester.
After negotiations with Boris Johnson’s government broke down, Burnham strongly defended the region’s position. “Greater Manchester will not be bullied,” he said during the interview. He added that local leaders were standing up for residents who deserved fair financial support.
Burnham also made several appearances on Sky News where he continued to argue that northern England was not receiving equal treatment during the pandemic.
In one interview, he said leaders should “level with people rather than dictate to them,” as he called for a fairer approach to Covid restrictions. His repeated appearances during this period helped earn him the nickname “King of the North.”
Let’s bring back hope. pic.twitter.com/Z6OCOPXp00
— Andy Burnham (@andyburnham) July 20, 2026
When Andy Burnham Was Asked About Becoming PM
Burnham appeared on Piers Morgan Uncensored as speculation about his future in national politics continued to grow.
Asked whether he would return to Westminster or eventually seek the country’s top job, Burnham avoided making a firm commitment. Instead, he replied, “You should never say never in politics.”
Andy Burnham’s Take On Everyday Issues
Burnham was also a regular guest on Good Morning Britain where discussions often centred on transport, public services and the cost of living.
During one appearance, he stressed that “people deserve a system that works for them, not against them,” while explaining his vision for improving local transport across Greater Manchester.
For too long, we’ve been told that ending rough sleeping will take decades or even that it’s impossible. I’m not having that.
This is something a government can fix if it chooses to. Today, I’m choosing to.
The Passage are an organisation leading the way on this – I was proud… pic.twitter.com/ZALHMygE9O
— Andy Burnham (@andyburnham) July 20, 2026
‘Portillo Moment’
Burnham joined Sky News during the UK’s 2024 General Election coverage as results poured in from across the country.
One of the evening’s most shared moments came when he described Jacob Rees Mogg’s defeat as a “Portillo moment” as he referred to one of the biggest political upsets in British election history. The clip was widely circulated online as viewers reacted to the night’s dramatic results.
When Andy Burnham Was Asked About Leading The Party
As rumours about Labour’s future gathered pace, Burnham appeared on BBC Newsnight where he was repeatedly asked if he wanted to lead the party.
Responding to the speculation, he said, “All I’ve launched is a debate.” He insisted that his focus was on discussing Labour’s future rather than starting a leadership campaign.
Parliament’s Viral ‘Naughty Boy’ Moment
Burnham’s memorable moments weren’t limited to television interviews. Just weeks before becoming Prime Minister, the former Greater Manchester mayor made headlines during his return to the House of Commons after winning the Makerfield by election.
As Burnham walked through the chamber to be sworn in, Conservative MP Sir Desmond Swayne jokingly heckled, “Rome is saved.” Moments later, other MPs shouted, “He’s not the Messiah” and “Water into wine,” referencing Monty Python’s Life of Brian.
Without missing a beat, Burnham smiled and replied, “Naughty boy,” completing the famous joke from the comedy film. The response drew laughter from MPs across the House and the clip soon spread across social media.
