Awkward moment GMB's Susanna Reid grills Richard Madeley over Russell Brand interview

Madeley surprised by reminder of Brand interview

Good Morning Britain presenter Richard Madeley was caught off guard when co-host Susanna Reid brought up an interview he conducted with Russell Brand. Madeley made a barbed comment in the documentary accusing Brand of rape and sexual assault, which Brand denies.

Madeley's remark on Brand's reputation

In the interview, Madeley and his wife Judy Finnigan introduced Brand as the "lovely, innocent Russell Brand" before Madeley added the comment "Butter wouldn't melt".

Did Madeley know about the allegations?

When Reid asked Madeley if he made the comment knowing about any allegations against Brand, Madeley admitted that while he knew about Brand's reputation as a "womaniser", he was unaware of any criminal accusations against him.

Brand's denial of the allegations

Brand has denied the new allegations of rape, sexual assault, and abuse made by four women, including one who was only 16 at the time. The claims were part of a joint investigation by The Times and Channel 4's Dispatches documentary.

Metropolitan Police urges other victims to come forward

The Metropolitan Police has urged potential victims of Brand to come forward after the allegations were made public. Brand released a video denying any wrongdoing before the claims were published.

Madeley's response to the reminder in the documentary

Madeley initially said he was unaware of the clip in the documentary when told about it. After it was shown to him, Reid asked if he made the comment because of Brand's reputation. Madeley responded that it was "a long time ago now" and that he never heard any allegations of criminal behavior, only that Brand had a reputation as a "womaniser".

Investigations launched by BBC and Channel 4

Both the BBC and Channel 4 have started investigations into potential offenses by Brand while he was employed by them. MPs have also called for police action.

Brand's father defends him

Brand's father, Ron Brand, defended him on Facebook, calling the allegations "unproven" and suggesting that there are more important things happening in the world.