Katy Perry's nickname for her ex-husband Russell Brand has resurfaced after the comedian was found guilty of rape and sexual assault. The couple were married for just 14 months between 2010 and 2011, with their divorce finalised in 2012.
The year after their split, Perry made the remark about Brand to Piers Morgan at a Vanity Fair event in Washington, DC. Morgan later disclosed the conversation in an opinion piece for The Sun. Perry reportedly said she adored Brits because they are "so damn confident", adding: "Trouble is, I find that irresistible. I love Brits... Well, not all of them - not Rasputin, obviously."
Rasputin Comparison Explained
Morgan queried the apparent parallel between Brand and Rasputin, describing the historical figure as "fiercely intelligent", "sex-crazed", "manipulative", and "controlling". Rasputin was a monk renowned for his connection to the monarchy during the dying days of the Russian Empire, which brought the family into disrepute.
He was frequently drunk and womanising, and believed to have wielded influence over the royal family until he was killed by royalists in 1919, after one failed assassination attempt. Morgan claimed that Brand learned of the nickname and was "thrilled" by it, allegedly calling Rasputin a "pretty powerful bloke" who could "manipulate" people with his eyes.
Brand reportedly said he "liked" the mystic figure, adding that he was "all right".
Conviction and Sentencing
Brand now faces years behind bars after being found guilty of raping one of his fans and sexually assaulting three women during his showbiz heyday. The 51-year-old targeted women he met while becoming one of Britain's most recognisable stand-up comedians, a celebrated TV and radio presenter, and a Hollywood film star.
His victims attended court to disclose how Brand had coerced them into sexual activity, sometimes within seconds of their first encounter, exploiting his enormous fame to relentlessly pursue a goal of sex with 5,000 women. Southwark Crown Court was told how Brand, who once bragged he would not give up in his quest for sex before achieving his "birthright orgasm", disregarded pleas from women for him to stop.
Six women testified against Brand, while the former comedian failed to convince any of his celebrity mates or former showbiz associates to give evidence in his defence. On Thursday, a jury convicted Brand of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. He was acquitted of two additional charges of rape and one allegation of attempted indecent assault.
Brand now faces the possibility of a substantial prison sentence when he is sentenced on Monday next week, just over three years after initially being exposed as a rapist and sexual predator.
Police Praise for Victims
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who headed the Metropolitan Police investigation, praised the "extraordinary courage, resilience and determination" of the women who came forward against Brand. He stated: "Despite intense media and public scrutiny, they relived deeply personal and traumatic experiences and placed their trust in us. Without their bravery, this outcome would not have been possible."
Furphy added: "Brand used his influence, status and fame to prey on and exploit women. As his profile grew, so too did his sense of entitlement. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or powerful they may be."
