Member of the Icelandic Parliament — Viðreisn
Jón Gnarr is one of Iceland's most multifaceted artists and has carved out a unique place in Icelandic society as an actor, writer, comedian, and politician. He is best known for his work in Icelandic television and film, but also for his unexpected entry into politics when he founded the Best Party in 2009 in the wake of the financial crisis. His electoral victory and service as Mayor of Reykjavík from 2010 to 2014 attracted considerable attention both domestically and internationally, with his tenure characterized by fresh approaches to municipal governance and emphasis on human rights and environmental issues. Before returning to politics as a Member of Parliament for the Reform Party in 2024, Jón had enjoyed a long and varied career in the arts. He has performed at all professional theatres in Iceland, written numerous books many of which have been translated and published abroad, and maintained a regular presence as a columnist. His autobiographical books, The Indian, The Pirate, and The Outlaw, have been widely acclaimed and chronicle his upbringing and experiences. In 2021, he completed a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Iceland University of the Arts, confirming his commitment to the arts and lifelong learning. As a Member of Parliament, Jón brings unusual experience and perspective to the Althing. His background in the arts and experience in municipal politics make him a distinctive voice in Icelandic politics, where he connects cultural life, civic affairs, and national issues in a uniquely compelling way.
Jón Gnarr has enjoyed a diverse and remarkable career spanning many areas of Icelandic society. He began his career as an actor and has performed at all professional theatres in Iceland, as well as appearing in numerous films and television shows. He is a member of the Icelandic Actors' Union for Theatre and Film and has been a prominent figure in Iceland's entertainment industry for decades. Alongside his acting career, he has worked as a writer, playwright, and screenwriter, and is a member of the Icelandic Writers' Union. He wrote regular columns for Fréttablaðið for many years and has been an active voice in public discourse. In 2009, Jón founded the Best Party, which was initially conceived as satire in the wake of the financial crisis, but the party achieved an unexpected electoral victory in the 2010 Reykjavík municipal elections. Jón served as Mayor of Reykjavík from 2010 to 2014, a period characterized by innovative priorities and international attention. His tenure attracted considerable interest abroad and he became something of a phenomenon in international media for his unconventional approach to politics. After his time as mayor, Jón returned to the arts and writing, but in 2024 his career turned back to politics when he was elected to the Althing for the Reform Party in the Reykjavík South constituency. Thus, he has combined his interests in the arts, cultural work, and social issues in a unique and compelling career.