Canadian comedian Katherine Ryan has reportedly referred to Russell Brand as a 'predator' during filming for a comedy show, according to sources.
Ryan, 40, who has previously spoken about a well-known figure on the comedy circuit who is notorious for their behavior, has now been confirmed to be referring to Brand. Brand has denied allegations of rape and sexual assault.
Confrontation on TV Show
Last year, Ryan appeared on the Louis Theroux Interviews show and disclosed that she confronted a co-star, labeling them as a "predator". She chose not to reveal the person's name due to concerns over potential legal issues. Ryan emphasized that she had not been assaulted by this person.
However, The Times has reported that Ryan confronted Brand, 48, while they were both judges on the Comedy Central show Roast Battle in 2018. Brand, who denies allegations of rape and sexual abuse, was reportedly repeatedly called out during the filming of the show. He was later dropped from the program after one series.
Barbed Remarks
According to sources, Ryan directed pointed remarks towards Brand during the taping of Roast Battle. Although these remarks did not make the final edit of the show, they included a reminder about potential victims coming forward and a mention of Brand's marriage to pop star Katy Perry and their subsequent breakup by text message.
Production sources have revealed that Brand was "uncomfortable" with the jibes directed at him, as he was expecting to solely perform as a judge on the show. Following his removal from the judging panel, Jonathan Ross took his place for the second series of Roast Battle.
Legal Allegations and Denials
Brand, who is currently facing accusations of rape, sexual assault, and abuse from multiple women, denies all the allegations. The police have urged potential victims to come forward, and both the BBC and Channel 4 have initiated investigations.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Brand vehemently denied any wrongdoing and described his past relationships as "always consensual". He admitted to being promiscuous during the height of his fame but denied any criminal behavior.
Representatives for Katherine Ryan have not yet commented on the allegations made against Russell Brand.
