Russell Brand’s prison sentence has sparked reactions across political and entertainment circles. One of the most notable came from Donald Trump Jr., who defended the comedian after he received a 10-year-and-six-month sentence in the U.K. Trump Jr. argued that Brand became a target after publicly embracing Christianity and conservative views. His remarks drew attention following the high-profile conviction.
The president’s son argues Brand was targeted after embracing conservatism
On an episode of his Triggered show, Donald Trump Jr. questioned the timing of the case against Russell Brand. He argued that no one publicly viewed Russell Brand as a rapist during the height of his fame, including when he was married to Katy Perry.
“When he was like married to Katy Perry, he’s one of the most famous actors in the world, no one seemed to have a problem,” Trump Jr. said. He continued by claiming that Brand later “finds God,” embraces conservative ideas, and then ends up serving years in prison. Trump Jr. suggested those events were connected.
However, Brand was sentenced in London after being convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. The case followed allegations made by multiple women. Brand pleaded not guilty throughout the trial and denied all wrongdoing.
According to PEOPLE, following the verdict, Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy praised the women who came forward. He said the outcome reflected their “extraordinary courage, resilience and determination” despite intense public scrutiny. Furphy also stated that Brand used his “influence, status and fame” to exploit women, adding that the conviction should send a message that no one is above the law.
In recent years, Brand has openly discussed his Christian faith and associated with several conservative figures in the United States, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz. In September, he appeared alongside Oz at a summit promoting Kennedy’s public health agenda.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump Jr.’s comments came after a jury considered evidence during a four-week criminal trial and convicted Brand on four counts. The Metropolitan Police said investigators gathered evidence from more than 100 witnesses and reviewed thousands of documents.
