UMVA has learned that a shocking collaboration between reality TV star Gemma Collins and the UK government's Department for Education has left the internet stunned.
The unexpected partnership was revealed in an 18-second advertisement on the Department for Education's official account, featuring Gemma Collins, known for her appearances on The Only Way is Essex. In the clip, she declares she's been enlisted to 'help sort things out', but fails to clarify what those 'things' are or what she'll be doing.
The video shows Gemma turning around, revealing herself to the camera outside the Westminster building, making a peace sign while entering a lift, and then asking Education Minister Bridgit Phillipson, 'Right. What are we doing to help the children?' The minister invites Gemma into her office for a chat.
The ad quickly faced a barrage of criticism, with many calling it 'disgraceful', 'performative', 'tone-deaf', and 'pathetic'. Critics argued that the department should have consulted with experienced educators instead of a reality TV star.
One commenter wrote, 'No shade to Gemma Collins, but the DFE have not read the room here. Listen to your teachers, students and parents who are crying out for change.' Another asked, 'How much did this cost the DfE? And the taxpayer?'
Gemma responded to the backlash on social media, writing, 'I see all your comments I'm going to change everything and help Everyone please do not worry.' However, many fired back, with one writing, 'This is NOT a time for joking around.'
Gemma Collins rose to fame on The Only Way is Essex from 2011 to 2019 and has since appeared on various reality shows, including I'm A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, Celebrity Big Brother, and Dancing on Ice.
The collaboration has sparked heated debate about the government's approach to education and its decision to partner with a reality TV star.
