Brent Chapman: From Stage to Legislature
Brent Chapman journey into the political arena is anything but traditional. An actor, producer, voice coach, and broadcaster turned elected official, Chapman has channeled his wide-ranging communication skills into the world of politics. Currently serving as the MLA for Surrey South under the Conservative Party of British Columbia, he brings a blend of charisma, conviction, and controversy to the province’s political landscape. While his campaign was marred by past remarks that drew strong public criticism, Chapman’s election victory and subsequent apologies reflect a political figure seeking a second act in public service.
Early Life and Background
Brent Chapman has lived a multifaceted life, grounded in creativity and public engagement. Based in Surrey, British Columbia, he shares his life with his wife, Kerry-Lynne Findlay, a lawyer who later transitioned into politics and currently serves as a Member of Parliament. Together, they have raised four adult children.
Chapman’s professional roots lie in the performing arts and communication. He worked as an actor in television and film, appearing in commercials for major brands like Coca-Cola, Sears, and Honda, and had minor roles in productions such as Freddy vs. Jason and The Lizzie McGuire Movie. Beyond acting, he pursued voice coaching, producing, and broadcasting, becoming a familiar face and voice in both entertainment and community-oriented spaces.
Throughout his earlier career, Chapman also ran a small business, demonstrating entrepreneurial skills that would later inform his grassroots political efforts.
Career Journey
Chapman’s move into politics came in 2024 when he was nominated as the Conservative Party candidate for Surrey South. This decision followed the departure of then-MLA Elenore Sturko from BC United to the Conservative Party and her subsequent run in the nearby riding of Surrey-Cloverdale due to electoral boundary changes.
Bringing his public speaking background and campaign experience to the table, Chapman quickly mobilized support in the community. Known for his commitment to conservative principles and volunteer-driven outreach, he positioned himself as a voice for traditional values and local engagement. Despite facing strong media scrutiny over past social media posts, Chapman stayed in the race, focusing his message on local issues and individual liberties.
He won the seat in the 2024 general election with 58.8% of the vote, defeating NDP candidate Haroon Ghaffar. Upon his election, he was named the Official Opposition Critic for Transit and ICBC, placing him at the center of debates on affordability, mobility, and public infrastructure.
Key Achievements & Public Perception
Chapman’s rise in provincial politics is viewed by some as a testament to the strength of local, grassroots campaigning. His ability to mobilize volunteers and engage directly with constituents has earned him recognition as a responsive and hardworking representative.
His communication strengths—honed over years in the media—allow him to effectively connect with a range of audiences. He is regarded as a passionate advocate for conservative policies, especially on matters of government accountability and community-centered decision-making.
However, public perception of Chapman remains sharply divided due to his past remarks and the controversies that surrounded his campaign. For some voters, his willingness to apologize and take ownership has signaled a capacity for growth and reflection; for others, concerns remain.
Controversies and Challenges
Chapman’s political debut was accompanied by intense controversy. Between 2015 and 2024, he had made several social media posts that were widely criticized as Islamophobic, anti-refugee, and offensive to Indigenous communities. These included disparaging remarks about Muslims and Palestinians, speculation about mass shootings being staged, and statements comparing harm reduction policies to Holocaust imagery.
Further backlash came in 2024 when he dismissed the mainstream narrative surrounding residential school gravesites, comments that Indigenous leaders condemned as racist. Amid mounting criticism, Chapman issued a public apology in October 2024, stating that his past statements were “completely unacceptable” and unrepresentative of who he is today.
He also personally apologized to Muslim candidates during the campaign and acknowledged the harm caused by his previous remarks. Chapman emphasized his efforts to build new relationships and his respect for communities he had previously offended.
Despite these apologies, questions about his political judgment and sensitivity continue to follow him in public discourse.
Current Role & Future Outlook
Now serving as the MLA for Surrey South and the opposition critic for Transit and ICBC, Chapman has the opportunity to influence critical issues affecting British Columbians. His portfolio involves pressing topics like insurance reform, public transit expansion, and mobility affordability—areas of concern for many residents in the Lower Mainland.
His future as a legislator will likely hinge on his ability to build bridges across communities, show consistency in his policy positions, and maintain a constructive role within the opposition caucus. Whether he can evolve from a controversial figure to a consensus-builder remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Brent Chapman is a political figure shaped by reinvention. From his days as a commercial actor to his current position in the legislature, he has leveraged communication as both a tool and a battleground. While his past has drawn criticism, his willingness to apologize and step into public office suggests a desire to contribute meaningfully.
As the political landscape in British Columbia continues to shift, Chapman stands as a reminder of the complexities of public leadership in the digital age—where past actions, present decisions, and future accountability converge. His story is still unfolding, and so is his role in shaping the future of Surrey South and beyond.
