Jimmy Carr criticised for Russell Brand sentencing joke

Comedian Jimmy Carr has drawn criticism for sharing a stand-up routine clip that references Russell Brand's recent conviction and sentencing for rape and sexual assault. Carr posted the video to his X account on Monday, November 9, using it to advertise tickets for his forthcoming 'Killing Jokes' tour, scheduled for 2027.

The clip features Carr responding to a heckler about Brand. He stated, "What do I think about Russell Brand? Well, this is interesting. It’s crazy to think that Russell Brand is going to jail for something he didn’t do… get consent. I think Russell Brand’s views on sex and consent are going to radically change in the next week."

This video was shared approximately one hour after Russell Brand, 51, received a sentence of 10-and-a-half years imprisonment at Southwark Crown Court. He had been convicted of rape and three counts of sexual assault, with the offences involving four women. The court heard details of an incident where a woman was raped by Brand in 2009 at his London residence. Accusations of sexual misconduct were also made by other women who had worked with Brand at media organisations including Channel 4, MTV, and Capital Radio.

The timing of Carr's post and his decision to link the material to his tour promotion led to accusations on social media of exploiting Brand's conviction for publicity. "Trying to sell tickets on the back of a rapist being sent down is a scum move," one user commented. Another observed, "You’ve changed your tune about him Jimmy."

However, the comedian's actions also received support. One user wrote, "Laughed out loud for the first time ever at Jimmy Carr joke(s). Really good and demonstrates just how clever at thinking on their feet (stand up) some comedians are."

During the sentencing, Mr Justice Bennathan described Brand's behaviour as demonstrating "staggering arrogance." The judge told Brand that approximately 20 years ago, as he was gaining fame, he was perceived as clever, funny, and charismatic, but had also become "a sexual predator."

Representatives for Jimmy Carr were contacted for comment regarding the social media post.