Bear Grylls, the TV adventurer, comments on Russell Brand’s rape and sexual assault conviction two years after he attended Brand’s private baptism in the River Thames. Multiple outlets report that Grylls says Brand’s faith “seemed genuine” to him at the time and frames his involvement as part of his religious calling, while also stating he believes justice has been served.
The coverage also recalls that Grylls helped carry out or assist the baptism in spring 2024 near Brand’s home in Henley-on-Thames, according to several reports. While Grylls’ statement is consistent across outlets—emphasising personal faith, that he was a guest at a private event, and that judgement belongs to courts—reporting varies in what details are highlighted, such as the baptism setting or his remarks directed at victims.
Some outlets foreground how Grylls responds to the conviction and justice for victims, while others lead with his defence of the baptism and the alleged sincerity he perceived. One outlet’s summary explicitly highlights praise for the “courage” of Brand’s victims.
