Netflix has confirmed it has no plans to remove a Russell Brand comedy programme from its service, days after the former comedian was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for rape and sexual assault. The 51-year-old was jailed in London after being found guilty of the offences.
Programme remains available but not promoted
According to The Telegraph, Russell Brand: Re-Birth, a live show filmed in Hackney, London, will stay available to subscribers. However, the publication understands the special will no longer be actively suggested to viewers.
"We prioritise choice and control for our members: the freedom to watch what, how and when you want, with recommendations and ratings to inform those choices," a Netflix source said.
Content of the special and court remarks
The comedy special features multiple jokes and sexual anecdotes from Brand. In one part of the show he says: "I've hardly been conservative with sperm. Giving the stuff away like sticky confetti." He also remarks: "The real miracle is that one of them's been allowed to germinate instead of being squandered in a stranger's eyelashes."
Speaking about the birth of his daughter, he said: "There ain't nothing like seeing a vagina coming out of a vagina to make you re-evaluate your attitude towards people with vaginas."
During sentencing, Mr Justice Joel Bennathan described Brand as a "sexual predator" who told a "series of lies" and exhibited "staggering arrogance". Victim impact statements were heard in court, with one woman describing the "trauma" she was left with after being attacked by Brand.
Reaction and wider context
Jill Greenfield, chairman of the Fawcett Society, the UK charity campaigning for gender equality and women's rights, called Netflix's decision "a bit surprising". She told The Telegraph: "I don't know who would want to watch that. They're a broadcaster; they need to think about the audience, especially when there are further investigations going on. It's upsetting for tons of people, particularly the victims. With a criminal conviction, it's a wonder why you'd keep it up."
Many of Brand's previous interviews and appearances have resurfaced in light of his conviction, including an appearance on Big Fat Quiz of the Year during which rape jokes were made in front of Lily Allen, the only woman on the panel. Pop star Dannii Minogue had previously recalled an encounter with Brand, claiming that during a 2006 interview he made comments about her breasts and tried to get her phone number, remaining persistent after she refused.
