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Russell Brand’s former fans from the Left – including Andy Burnham and Ed Miliband
Russell Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault after a trial at Southwark Crown Court. The article examines how Labour figures and media outlets had previously praised or promoted him, given his public anti-establishment image, and argues that those endorsements look troubling in light of the verdict.
Ed Miliband interviewed Brand during the 2015 election campaign, while Andy Burnham praised his efforts to help others in 2014; The Guardian had described him as someone who could help Labour win. The jury deliberated for eight and a half hours, acquitted Brand on three other charges, and he was refused bail before sentencing on Monday. Police said they had taken 400 statements from 100 witnesses and were investigating two further rape allegations.
In short
- Brand was convicted of rape and three sexual assaults.
- Labour figures had previously praised or promoted him.
- Police are investigating two further rape allegations.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
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The case for
The earlier praise and promotion of Brand deserve scrutiny because public figures and media outlets helped lend credibility to a prominent voice, and their choices may have reflected insufficient care about the person they were elevating. The conviction makes those endorsements look especially consequential, while also prompting questions about how institutions assess powerful figures before wrongdoing is established.
The case against
Past endorsements should be judged in the context in which they were made, before this trial’s verdict, and should not automatically be treated as evidence that those who praised Brand condoned or could have foreseen his crimes. The jury also acquitted him on three other charges, so criticism should distinguish the convictions from allegations and avoid implying that association itself establishes responsibility.
Explained simply
Russell Brand is a British comedian and media personality who became known for outspoken criticism of political and economic institutions. His public image attracted attention from people across politics and the media, including some Labour figures.
Ed Miliband, then Labour leader, interviewed Brand during the 2015 general election campaign. Andy Burnham, then a senior Labour politician, praised Brand’s efforts to help others in 2014, and The Guardian suggested he might help Labour win support.
The case has drawn attention to how public figures and media organisations engage with celebrities who present themselves as political outsiders. It also involves allegations beyond the charges considered at trial, which police have said they are investigating.