Comedian Eddie Izzard planning to run for Mayor of London

Eddie Izzard has said he is ready to take the flak for wanting to pursue a career in politics.

The comedian is seeking the Labour nomination for Mayor of London in 2019, and hopes to stand as MP if he does not get the endorsement. Speaking to the Radio Times, he said:

The 51-year-old, who previously campaigned for for Ken Livingstone to be mayor, criticised current Mayor Boris Johnson: "Boris is really all about Boris," he said.

Izzard added:

Talking about Baroness Thatcher, he said:

Next year Izzard will return to South Africa to complete his latest running challenge, a 27 marathons in 27 days tribute to Nelson Mandela to mark the 27 years he spent in prison.

The star had to pull out last year after the fourth event because of health complications.

"I'm not stopping until at some point I do achieve 27 marathons in 27 days. I know I can do it," he said.

In 2009, Izzard completed 43 marathons in 51 days to raise money for Sport Relief.