Megyn Kelly has drawn widespread criticism following remarks on her talk show defending Russell Brand, calling his 10-and-a-half-year prison term the result of an alleged double standard. The political commentator spoke out after Brand was sentenced on Monday, November 9, following his conviction on one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault for acts committed between 2004 and 2009.
Megyn Kelly Claims Brand Sentence Is a ‘Political Witch Hunt’
Speaking during an episode of The Megyn Kelly Show, the 55-year-old former Fox News host condemned the judicial outcome, describing the ruling as an outrage. Expressing her disagreement with the severity of the prison term, Kelly asserted on air:
“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.”
Kelly continued her criticism of the court’s decision, telling viewers: “Good Lord. 10 and a half years in prison. This is insane.”
The commentator’s statements quickly provoked swift pushback online, with users on social platform X condemning her stance. One user wrote, “You’re ignorant for this take. Shame on you Megyn.”
Another questioned Kelly’s familiarity with the legal proceedings, posting, “What the hell Megan, have you watched the judge’s sentencing remarks?”
A third critic labeled her defense ill-advised, commenting: “What a horrible hill for you to die on.”
Court Findings and Details of the Sentencing
Russell Brand, 51, received nine years specifically for the rape conviction after being found guilty of anally raping a 21-year-old fan in 2009, bringing his total custodial sentence to 10 and a half years alongside his convictions for three counts of sexual assault. During sentencing, Judge Joel Bennathan outlined the profound, long-lasting impact the attack inflicted upon the victim.
Addressing Brand directly in court, Judge Bennathan referenced the evidence presented during the trial:
“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. 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.”
In a statement read by prosecutors, the victim explained why she had delayed coming forward, stating: “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.”
Judge Bennathan, who characterized Brand as a predator, described the immediate aftermath of the 2009 assault, adding: “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.”
Why This Matters
The trial and conviction of Russell Brand mark a major legal resolution concerning high-profile offenses that occurred between 2004 and 2009. The case underscores continuing legal and public reckoning over historical sexual offenses involving prominent entertainment figures, highlighting how celebrity status and perceived power imbalances often deter victims from reporting abuse immediately.
Brand is expected to serve approximately two-thirds of his sentence—around seven years in custody—before becoming eligible for release on licence under UK sentencing guidelines. At the same time, the polarized reaction to his sentencing demonstrates how political commentators and audiences continue to view high-profile legal outcomes through contrasting cultural and media lenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Russell Brand convicted of?
Brand was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault related to incidents that occurred between 2004 and 2009.
How long is Russell Brand’s prison sentence?
Judge Joel Bennathan handed down a total sentence of 10 and a half years in prison, with nine years attributed to the rape offense. Brand is expected to serve roughly two-thirds of the sentence, approximately seven years, before being released on licence.
What did Megyn Kelly say about the ruling?
Megyn Kelly criticized the court’s decision on The Megyn Kelly Show, calling the sentence an outrage and arguing that it represents a double standard and evidence of a political witch hunt against Brand.
