Bear Grylls says Brand's baptism 'seemed genuine' amid rape conviction

Bear Grylls has defended his involvement in Russell Brand's private baptism, stating that the comedian's conversion to Christianity "seemed genuine" at the time, according to the Daily Mail ^[1]. The TV adventurer helped lower the disgraced former comedian into the River Thames near Henley-on-Thames in April 2024, a ceremony that took place months after sexual assault allegations first surfaced but before any criminal charges were filed.

The Mirror reported that Grylls posted a statement on X following Brand's recent conviction for rape and sexual assault ^[2]. The Man Vs Wild star explained that his presence as a "guest" at the event was part of his duty as a person of faith to "love and serve anyone," noting that he has since visited prisons to support those who have committed serious crimes. "It is the sick that need healing," Grylls wrote, adding that "judgement is for the courts and God."

Brand, 51, was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court. He was cleared of two further charges of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault. The trial revealed that six women gave evidence against Brand, describing how he used his fame to pursue sexual activity, sometimes within seconds of meeting them. The court heard that Brand ignored pleas to stop, having previously boasted about achieving his "birthright orgasm."

Grylls, a well-known Christian who has published devotional books including Soul Fuel and The Greatest Story Ever Told, faced calls to explain his participation in the baptism. He clarified that he had not been aware of the specifics of the allegations when he helped with the ceremony, which he described as a privilege to stand beside someone expressing a "humble need for forgiveness." The Mirror noted that Brand had previously shared a photo of the baptism on Instagram, captioned with a reference to himself, Grylls, the Thames, and the Holy Spirit ^[2].

In the wake of the verdict, Canadian comedian Katherine Ryan expressed her "grief and relief," having previously spoken of an unnamed predator in the industry widely believed to be Brand. She praised the survivors who came forward, stating that while justice had been served, the day was marked by emotional turmoil. Brand, who once sought to reinvent his image as a born-again Christian, is now facing a significant prison sentence. The six women who testified have been granted lifelong anonymity.