Megyn Kelly sparks backlash after calling Russell Brand's 10-year sentence a 'witch hunt'
Warning: This article contains discussion of rape and sexual assault which some readers may find distressing.
Megyn Kelly has been slammed for saying Russell Brand’s 10 and a half year prison sentence is a sign of a 'double standard'.
The right-leaning political commentator, 55, did not agree with Brand’s sentence on Monday (9 November). Last week, he was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault, offences that took place between 2004 and 2009.
During the latest episode of The Megyn Kelly Show, the former Fox News anchor said the sentence was ‘an outrage’, adding: “This is an obvious double standard. And if you needed any further proof that this is a political witch hunt against Russell Brand, that judge just gave it to us.”
Advert
Kelly also said: “Good Lord. 10 and a half years in prison. This is insane."
Responding to her comments on X, one person tweeted: “You’re ignorant for this take. Shame on you Megyn.”
Another added: “What the hell Megan, have you watched the judge's sentencing remarks?”
A third wrote: "What a horrible hill for you to die on."
Brand, 51, was given nine years for his rape offence after he was found guilty of anally raping a 21-year-old fan in 2009.
Judge Joel Bennathan noted how his actions had caused ‘significant and long-lasting’ harm to the woman.
“In her victim impact statement she wrote of struggling to eat and sleep, of taking two to three months off from work and of abandoning the career she had embarked upon,” Bennathan said.
“Although the rape was 17 years ago, she still finds it affects her ability to form new friendships and to know when she can trust people.
“From her evidence at trial, I also know she developed an alcohol problem, partly as a result of your attack on her.”
The victim said in a statement read by prosecutors: “I felt that if I reported him, I would not be believed.
“His fame, wealth and influence created a power imbalance which made me feel powerless.”
Bennathan added: “She was driven to a nearby underground station by your driver, who for some reason had tissues ready, to hand to her as she wept.
“She was left distraught, in pain and terrified she might have contracted HIV.”
Brand is expected to serve two-thirds of his prison sentence, which is around seven years, before being released on licence.
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article and wish to speak to someone in confidence, contact the Rape Crisis England and Wales helpline on 0808 500 222, available 24/7. If you are currently in danger or need urgent medical attention, you should call 999.
Topics: Russell Brand, UK News, Celebrity
Anish Vij
