A petition urging the release of Russell Brand from prison has been posted on the convicted rapist's X account, triggering a wave of online criticism.
The appeal, which calls for the former comedian's freedom, was shared on Brand's profile on Thursday afternoon (November 12) alongside the hashtag "#FreeRussellBrand". The post drew hundreds of comments, with many users condemning the request.
One user, posting under the name Sh3lby, wrote: "We don't free rapists". Another commented: "You've got to be joking? This is embarrassing as f***! Imagine even bothering to keep up this pretence. HE IS A CONVICTED RAPIST!"
Sentencing and conviction
It remains unclear who authored the post on Brand's X account. The move comes days after Brand was sentenced to 10-and-a-half years in prison for rape and sexual assault.
The 51-year-old was convicted on Thursday of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others during his rise to fame as a television and radio presenter. He showed no emotion as he was handed his sentence at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, but reportedly told his wife, Laura Gallacher, "we'll be OK" before being taken down to the cells.
Brand had spent four nights in custody before his sentencing hearing, during which his barrister, Ian Winter KC, argued that his offences were linked to the level of fame he was acquiring.
Victim impact and judicial criticism
The court heard powerful victim impact statements from the women, one of whom described Brand as "a sexual predator who has no remorse for how his behaviour has impacted my life". She said his fame, wealth and influence had created a power imbalance which left her feeling unable to speak out. Another victim said she feared the impact of the sexual assault would "haunt me every day".
Sentencing Brand, Mr Justice Bennathan criticised his "staggering arrogance" and said he had become a sexual predator during his rise to fame. The judge said Brand had shown a "casual arrogant disregard to any woman's right to say no to you".
Broader calls for change
The case has also prompted renewed calls for changes to the way rape and sexual assault cases are handled by the justice system. Prime Minister Andy Burnham praised the women who came forward and said their bravery could lead to wider improvements in support for victims.
Meanwhile, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is reportedly preparing to summon media and entertainment industry bosses, with the Government keen to ensure the case marks a turning point in how allegations of misconduct are handled.
Brand is expected to serve two-thirds of his sentence before being released on licence. He will remain on the sex offenders' register for life.
