Michael Rapaport just announced a run for NYC mayor

Actor and podcaster Michael Rapaport says he is running for New York City mayor, setting up an unexpected celebrity challenge to newly sworn-in leader Zohran Mamdani.

Rapaport, 55, made the announcement at the end of a recent episode of I Am Rapaport Stereo, just days after Mamdani officially took office. The New York native has been one of the new mayor’s loudest critics online and said his decision to run was driven by frustration with the current political climate.

“2025 was crazy, and I do not see it getting any calmer or cooler in 2026,” Rapaport said on the show. “That is why I am running for mayor.”

The actor later confirmed his plans on Instagram, describing it as a “special announcement” and sharing a post that laid out his blunt, no-frills pitch to voters.

Who is Michael Rapaport?

Rapaport has appeared in dozens of films and television series over the past three decades. He is best known to mainstream audiences for playing Phoebe Buffay’s police officer boyfriend Gary on Friends, as well as starring in Netflix’s Atypical.

He has also built a large following through his podcast and social media presence, where he is known for his outspoken opinions and confrontational style.

In his Instagram post, Rapaport leaned heavily into that persona, promising to be direct, admit mistakes and push for a safer and more affordable city.

Why he is targeting Zohran Mamdani

Rapaport has spent months publicly criticising Mamdani, particularly over his views on Israel and Gaza, as well as his political tone and personal style.

Mamdani’s campaign energised large parts of the city after he defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, running on proposals that included a city-wide rent freeze, free and faster buses, and city-run supermarkets with lower prices.

Since Mamdani emerged as the frontrunner, his campaign has also faced waves of online hostility, including Islamophobic attacks.

Rapaport has been among the most vocal figures opposing him, regularly attacking his policies, public appearances and personal mannerisms on social media and on his podcast.

Internet reaction and what happens next

Rapaport’s announcement has already sparked heavy online debate, with fans, critics and political commentators questioning whether his run is serious, symbolic or largely performative.

On I Am Rapaport Stereo, he acknowledged that the city is unlikely to collapse overnight under Mamdani’s leadership, but said he believes the new mayor represents a deeper shift in New York’s political culture.

Rapaport has not yet shared details about how he plans to campaign, raise funds or organise a formal run.

For now, the announcement appears to be more about signalling intent than launching a traditional political operation.

Still, the idea of a loud, celebrity podcaster entering one of the most high-profile mayoral races in the world has already turned it into a pop culture moment.

And if Rapaport’s track record is any indication, he is unlikely to be quiet about it.

Aasiya Niaz