YouTube Suspends Monetization on Russell Brand’s Channel Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
YouTube has taken action against Russell Brand, the comedian-turned-influencer, suspending monetization on his popular YouTube channel, which boasts 6.6 million subscribers. This decision comes in response to several allegations of sexual assault made against Brand by multiple women.
Allegations Prompt Monetization Suspension
The Google-owned video service made the announcement on Tuesday, citing “serious allegations against the creator” as the reason for their decision. Notably, this suspension applies to all channels associated with Russell Brand, including “Awakening With Russell,” “Football Is Nice,” and “Stay Free With Russell Brand.”
Piers Morgan on Russell Brand cancellation:
“What we cannot do is pre-emptively convict a man of heinous crimes like this without any legal due process to establish the cold, hard facts.”#RussellBrand pic.twitter.com/vcLBmTQKDs
— Ivan (@Ivankalema01) September 19, 2023
Brand’s Presence on Alternative Platforms
Despite the suspension on YouTube, Russell Brand maintains a presence on Rumble, a video platform known for its popularity among certain conservative and far-right groups. On Rumble, Brand’s channel has garnered 1.4 million followers.
Denial and Details of the Allegations
Russell Brand, aged 48, vehemently denies the sexual assault allegations made by four women. These allegations surfaced in a Channel 4 television documentary and were subsequently reported in The Times and Sunday Times newspapers. The accusers, who have chosen to remain anonymous, include one individual who claims she was sexually assaulted during a relationship with Brand when she was 16, and another woman who alleges she was raped by Brand in Los Angeles in 2012. These allegations span from 2006 to 2013, with London’s Metropolitan Police force revealing that they have received a report of a separate sexual assault dating back to 2003 since these claims became public.
Impact on Live Performances
As a consequence of the allegations and ensuing controversy, promoters have postponed the remaining dates of Russell Brand’s live gigs. Known for his unbridled and risqué stand-up routines, Brand was a prominent U.K. star in the early 2000s. Over the years, he has hosted radio and television shows, written memoirs detailing his struggles with substance abuse, appeared in Hollywood movies, and had a brief marriage to pop star Katy Perry from 2010 to 2012.
Shift to Online Content and Controversial Themes
In recent years, Brand’s presence in mainstream media has diminished, but he has cultivated a substantial online following. His YouTube channel, prior to the monetization suspension, featured content on wellness, conspiracy theories, and interviews with controversial figures like Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan. It included videos discussing COVID-19 conspiracy theories and vaccine misinformation.
Impact on Scheduled Performances
Despite the controversy, Brand had continued to tour as a comedian, with a recent performance in a London venue. However, following the sexual assault allegations, the rest of his tour, including a scheduled performance in Windsor, west of London, has been postponed by promoters.
Also Read :
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Reveal Adorable Photos of Their Newest Family Member, Riot Rose
One Comment