Bear Grylls comments on Russell Brand's rape conviction

British adventurer and television presenter Bear Grylls posted on X on Friday, stating that it is "right that justice has now been served" after comedian Russell Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court. Grylls, who attended Brand's private baptism two years earlier, said his participation was part of his faith-based outreach work.

"Brand’s faith seemed genuine to me at the time when I was a guest at his private baptism. I have attended a few now. Even visiting in prisons with people who have committed terrible crimes. It’s part of our calling as men and women of faith, to love and serve anyone. It is right that justice has now been served. I can’t imagine how hard this time has been for the victims."

Brand, 51, was found guilty of raping a 21-year-old fan in 2009 and sexually assaulting three other women in separate incidents that occurred between 2004 and 2009. He was acquitted of two additional rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. The jury’s verdict was delivered after a four-week trial; Brand has denied the allegations, was denied bail, and remains in custody pending sentencing on November 9. Police continue to investigate two further rape allegations against him.