In a move that’s sent shockwaves through British politics and celebrity circles, Australian actress and singer Holly Valance has ignited a firestorm by appearing alongside far-right activist Tommy Robinson at the “Unite the Kingdom” rally in London. The event, held on January 12, 2026, drew thousands protesting against immigration policies, with Valance not only sharing the stage but praising Robinson’s “redemption” in a speech that has drawn widespread condemnation. Once known for her role as Felicity Scully on the soap opera Neighbours and hits like “Kiss Kiss,” Valance’s pivot to conservative activism has culminated in this controversial alliance, reopening wounds over extremism, free speech, and the responsibilities of public figures.

The rally, organized by Robinson—real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, founder of the English Defence League (EDL)—aimed to “unite patriots” amid ongoing debates on UK border control. Robinson, convicted multiple times for offenses including assault and contempt of court, has long been a polarizing figure, accused of stoking Islamophobia and division. Valance, 42, who has increasingly voiced right-wing views since marrying British property tycoon Nick Candy in 2012, described Robinson as a “man who has paid his dues” and urged the crowd to embrace his “journey of redemption.” Her words, captured on viral videos, have been slammed as legitimizing hate speech, with critics arguing it normalizes far-right ideologies.

Backlash was swift and fierce. Labour MPs labeled the appearance “disgraceful,” with shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper tweeting that celebrities should “think twice before platforming extremists.” Anti-racism groups like Hope Not Hate condemned Valance for “whitewashing” Robinson’s history, pointing to his EDL days marked by violent clashes and anti-Muslim rhetoric. Even within conservative ranks, unease surfaced; some Tory figures distanced themselves, fearing it alienates moderate voters ahead of elections. Social media exploded with #BoycottHolly trending, as fans expressed betrayal over her shift from pop star to political provocateur. Valance, who has donated to Reform UK and criticized “woke” culture, defended her stance in a follow-up interview, claiming she’s “standing up for British values” against “uncontrolled migration.”

Valance’s evolution traces back years. After quitting acting in the mid-2000s, she built a life in London’s elite circles, rubbing shoulders with politicians like Boris Johnson. Her marriage to Candy, a Conservative donor, immersed her in right-leaning networks. In recent podcasts, she’s railed against net zero policies and gender issues, aligning with figures like Nigel Farage. The rally marks her boldest step yet, joining Robinson—who served time for mortgage fraud and has been banned from platforms like Twitter before its rebranding— in a crowd chanting against “two-tier policing.” Attendees included other far-right sympathizers, amplifying concerns of rising nationalism post-Brexit.

The incident has sparked broader debates. Experts warn of celebrities amplifying fringe views, citing how Valance’s glamour could attract younger followers to extremism. Media watchdogs question the rally’s coverage, with some outlets accused of bias. Meanwhile, supporters hail her as “brave,” arguing free speech is under attack. Robinson, reveling in the spotlight, posted photos with Valance, calling her a “true patriot.”

As the storm rages, Valance shows no signs of backing down, planning more public engagements. This saga underscores Britain’s fractured political landscape, where celebrity endorsements can fuel division or drive change. Whether Valance’s “redemption” narrative for Robinson resonates or repels, it has undeniably thrust her into the heart of a national reckoning on tolerance and truth.