Bear Grylls has spoken out following Russell Brand's conviction for rape and sexual assault, expressing support for the victims while explaining why he stood beside the comedian at his baptism in 2024.
In a statement posted on X on November 6, the Man vs. Wild star said Brand's Christian faith had appeared sincere when he attended the private ceremony in the River Thames. Grylls also welcomed the outcome of the trial and acknowledged the suffering of the women involved.
"It is right that justice has now been served," Grylls wrote. "I can't imagine how hard this time has been for the victims, the heroes of the day."
Brand, 51, was convicted at London's Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, November 5, of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that he will be sentenced on Monday, November 9.
He was acquitted of two additional rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. Brand, who had denied the allegations, was remanded in custody after the verdicts.
Addressing his involvement in Brand's baptism, Grylls explained that his Christian beliefs call him to serve people seeking faith, including those who have committed serious crimes. He referred to attending baptisms and visiting people in prison.
"Judgement is for the courts and God...I wouldn't want to ever discourage someone's coming to faith," he wrote.
Brand's baptism took place in April 2024, after allegations against him had become public. His friendship with Grylls included an appearance on Running Wild in 2023, before the publication of the investigation by The Times newspapers and Channel 4's Dispatches.
Grylls' response addressed both his willingness to accompany someone seeking Christian faith and his belief that justice for victims must be upheld. He described the women who endured the proceedings as the day's heroes.
