I just discovered that Peter Falk of Columbo fame actually studied public administration and political science before his acting career. A one-eyed Jewish actor turned politician... now that's something you would not see every day.
Here in Brazil Tim Maia ran for senator in 98, he would have likely won, but he died the same year. We also have Tiririca who is a TV comedian and representative curently, Gilberto Gil who is a musician, secrretary of culture and city councilor in Salvador