Farage's cameo gold: neo-nazi endorsements surface in wealthy side hustle
Nigel Farage's lucrative side gig on the video-sharing platform Cameo has revealed a darker side, with footage showing him promoting extremist events and ideologies for a fee.
Analysis of over 4,000 clips shows controversial endorsements
A Guardian investigation found the former UKIP leader has earned at least £374,893 since joining Cameo five years ago, charging fans for personalized video messages. However, an analysis of the videos revealed Farage accepting payments to endorse a neo-Nazi event and repeat extremist slogans.
The revelations emerged after a reader alerted the Guardian to concerning trends in Farage's Cameo videos, prompting an analysis of over 4,366 clips. Researchers discovered numerous instances of Farage using phrases like “If you doubt, keep them out” in response to requests.
One particularly troubling example involved a payment of £141 to record a message for the mayor of the city hosting the Road Rage Terror Tour, an event organized by a Canadian neo-Nazi group. The video was subsequently used in promotional materials alongside white nationalist and antisemitic messaging.
A spokesperson for Reform UK stated that Farage’s Cameo videos “should not be treated as political statements or campaign activity,” adding that “occasional mistakes can occur.” This defense, however, fails to address the clear endorsement of extremist ideologies.
The findings raise questions about the ethics of monetizing political influence and the potential for public figures to profit from promoting divisive content. Farage’s consistent activity on the platform, with videos being recorded as recently as before the story's publication, underscores the ongoing nature of this income stream.
The Eden Project celebrated its 25th anniversary this week, attracting millions and generating billions in economic impact. The site’s unique approach to reconnecting people with nature offers a stark contrast to the darker revelations surrounding Farage’s Cameo activity.
The report highlights the potential for calculated messaging, raising the question: what would Farage say for power?