Comedian and commentator Russell Brand used a prominent US political stage to launch a surprise and deeply personal attack on his ex-wife Katy Perry's new relationship with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Political Rally Turns Personal
The incident occurred on Friday, December 19, 2025, as Brand addressed the Turning Point USA AmericaFest event in Phoenix, Arizona. The gathering is organised by the wife of activist Charlie Kirk. During a speech that covered politics, faith, and his distrust of authority, Brand suddenly shifted focus to his former spouse's love life.
Brand, 50, told the audience, which included his former mother-in-law Mary Hudson, that he still loved Perry. "I was okay with Orlando Bloom," he said, referencing the singer's previous partner, "but Justin Trudeau? Come on man. Don't put me in a category with that guy. That globalist stooge."
A Scathing Critique of Trudeau's Leadership
Brand later circled back to deliver a more political critique of the former Canadian leader. He framed Trudeau as part of a broader systemic issue, stating, "The biggest threat to our society is political leaders that have no authentic power, that seem to be operating on behalf of global bureaucracies."
He accused figures like Trudeau of being "operatives of deeper interest" rather than genuine leaders. In a pointed jab, Brand also mocked Trudeau's past blackface scandal, quipping, "he's got a nice haircut, so black up less - hairdressers more."
Despite the vitriol, Brand concluded this section of his speech by stating Trudeau was "a child of God" who deserved love and respect, claiming he prayed for his happiness.
Broader Attacks on Authority and Current Affairs
The event served as a platform for Brand to express his wider ideological views. He raged against authority, telling the crowd, "I don't trust human authority and I'll never trust them" and urged them to "yield to no human power." He extended this philosophy to everyday life, controversially advocating for breaking minor rules like stopping at red traffic lights at night "just to remind yourself, you can bow down to the only true authority."
Politically, he praised former US President Donald Trump, suggesting he had "performed near miracles" in the White House in 2025. He also took swipes at President Joe Biden and made a joke about his son Hunter Biden's past drug addictions. In a UK context, he detailed his "hatred of authority" and criticised the current Labour government.
Notably, Brand declared he was "done with Hollywood" but made no mention of the serious legal challenges he faces in the United Kingdom. He has been charged with five counts of assault and rape relating to allegations from four women, charges he "absolutely refutes." His speech received a mixed reception from the AmericaFest audience.
The relationship between Katy Perry, 41, and Justin Trudeau has been public knowledge since the summer of 2025, placing Brand's very public commentary squarely in the realm of a highly personal, very public feud.
