Larry the Cat, Downing Street’s Enduring Star, Set for Documentary Spotlight

LONDON — In a world of political upheaval and revolving prime ministers, one figure has remained a constant at 10 Downing Street: Larry, the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office. Beloved by the public and a veteran of six administrations, Larry is set to grace British screens in a new Channel 4 documentary series exploring the nation’s unique affection for felines.

The tabby cat, whose official duties range from “greeting guests” to “inspecting security,” has become an unlikely symbol of stability amid more than a decade of British political drama. His remarkably long tenure, which began in 2011, now makes him one of the longest-serving residents in Downing Street’s storied history, approaching the two-decade record set by Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger in the 18th and 19th centuries.

From Wandsworth Alley Cat to Whitehall Celebrity

Larry’s journey to the heart of British power is a true rags-to-riches story. Born a stray around 2007, he was rescued from the streets of Wandsworth, South London, by the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. In 2011, he was adopted by Downing Street staff to address a persistent rodent problem within the historic residence.

He quickly charmed the nation, becoming an instant celebrity. Former Prime Minister David Cameron was famously quick to embrace Larry’s star power, even introducing the cat to then-U.S. President Barack Obama during a visit in 2011. Cameron publicly declared his affection for Larry in Parliament, quashing rumors of any feline-human friction.

A ‘Chief Mouser’ More Inclined to Napping

Despite his formidable title, Larry has earned a reputation for being somewhat, well, relaxed about his primary duty. Over the years, countless treats and cuddles from politicians, journalists, and well-wishers have reportedly dulled his hunting instincts.

Political commentator Andrew Marr once quipped about the cat: “The truth is Downing Street is overrun with mice because Larry the cat is being fed by everybody. Larry the cat is too fat, too lazy and too complacent to actually do his job, which is catching mice in 10 Downing Street.”

The official government website, where Larry has his own dedicated page, charmingly describes his daily schedule as including “greeting guests, inspecting security and testing antique furniture for napping quality.” It also notes that “devising a solution to the mice’s occupation of the House” is among his core responsibilities – though it remains unclear how high a priority Larry places on this particular task.

Navigating the Halls of Power

Larry has encountered a diverse cast of characters during his time in office, having served Prime Ministers David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and Keir Starmer. While many world leaders have been charmed, not all interactions have been smooth. Former Prime Minister Theresa May was reportedly “a dog person,” a detail widely noted in the British press.

He’s also famously given a cold shoulder to several British politicians, including Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who attempted to pet him. In a memorable incident in 2019, Larry momentarily stole the show by taking refuge under U.S. President Donald Trump’s armored limousine, delaying the motorcade and Trump’s schedule.

His demeanor is not always genteel, even with the highest officeholders. Scottish Minister Ian Murray reportedly dubbed Larry “a little sh*t” after the cat refused to pose for a picture with the new Labour government in 2024. And the Downing Street gardener likely holds a less romantic view of Larry, as the flowerbeds outside the main entrance are his preferred outdoor lavatory.

Adding to his colorful character, Larry was known for his frequent skirmishes with Palmerston, the Foreign Office cat, until Palmerston retired in 2020. Their territorial disputes often played out in front of news cameras, providing further amusement for the British public.

An Unofficial Icon with Global Reach

Despite his quirks, Larry has cemented his place in the hearts of millions. His image adorns merchandise, and numerous social media accounts are dedicated to his exploits. The popular @Number10cat account on X boasts over 868,000 followers, offering a satirical glimpse into his “thoughts” on political events.

Still keeping the place running, despite the chaos. Some things never change. pic.twitter.com/f4F4L9fDdA

— Larry the Cat (@Number10cat) November 8, 2023

Downing Street staff regularly receive packages and treats addressed directly to Larry, a testament to his enduring popularity. As he prepares for his television debut, the world eagerly awaits more tales from the life of Britain’s most famous, and perhaps most independent, political resident.