A surprising name is trending on TikTok: Theresa May. The former British Prime Minister, once a fixture of serious political debate, is now captivating a new generation on the social media platform, sparking a wave of unexpected adoration and playful edits.
It’s not a resurgence of interest in her policies, but a fascination with the former PM herself. Videos featuring May – walking, dancing, even simply appearing in public – are racking up tens of thousands of likes and comments, fueled by a curious blend of genuine admiration and ironic appreciation.
Experts suggest this phenomenon might be “defensive fandom,” a way for young people to acknowledge May’s principles without necessarily declaring full-fledged support. It’s a standoffish appreciation, a willingness to consider her contributions with fresh eyes.
A key factor appears to be May’s relatively progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights during her time in office. As subsequent leaders shifted their positions, Gen Z users are looking back with increased fondness, recognizing her as a comparatively compassionate and socially-liberal voice within the Conservative party.
But the nostalgia goes deeper. Many TikTok users came of age during the turbulent years of Brexit, followed by the chaos of the Covid pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. Compared to the leaders who followed, Theresa May now appears, to many, as a figure of stability and perhaps even sanity.
The platform’s embrace of May also taps into a broader trend of “weird posting,” where users adopt the editing styles typically reserved for K-pop stars and apply them to unexpected figures. It’s a playful subversion of expectations, driven by the pursuit of engagement and attention.
TikTok’s algorithm plays a role too. Unlike other platforms that downplay political content, TikTok actively encourages it, as it drives user engagement. However, the algorithm is believed to lean conservative, amplifying right-leaning voices and content.
This algorithmic bias explains why May isn’t alone. Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni are also gaining traction on the platform, benefiting from the perception of stability and a relative lack of scandal often associated with female leaders.
While these TikTok edits haven’t dramatically shifted May’s overall public approval ratings, they demonstrate the platform’s potential to reshape perceptions and introduce political figures to new audiences. However, experts caution that superficial engagement doesn’t necessarily translate into real-world political impact.
Ultimately, the success of a politician on TikTok still hinges on substance. As one expert noted, even the most visually appealing videos won’t resonate if the underlying message fails to connect with voters. The platform can energize supporters, but it’s the policies, not the edits, that truly matter.
