Reform’s the Reformer: John Crace Digests Nigel Farage’s ‘Chiselled Cheekbones’ and Endless Talents

In the satirical pages of Reform’s the Reformer, John Crace skewers Nigel Farage’s self-styled image as a man of many talents—editor, agony uncle, crossword compiler, and even self-interviewer. The paper, which claims to take readers back to the 1950s, is presented as free to all patriots, or those who happen to find a discarded copy on the bus floor. Crace, a veteran sketch writer, highlights the absurdity of Farage’s omnipresence in his own publication, noting the ‘chiselled cheekbones’ that have apparently made the news. The piece underscores the blend of nostalgia and self-promotion that defines Reform UK’s media strategy, offering a window into how the party seeks to bypass mainstream outlets and speak directly to its base. The satirical tone, characteristic of Crace’s work, invites readers to question the substance behind the glossy surface. As Reform continues to court attention, the digest serves as a reminder that in politics, image often overshadows policy—and that even the most carefully crafted persona can be undone by a well-timed joke.