Katherine Ryan recalls confronting Russell Brand over alleged behaviour on ‘Roast Battle’

The comedian praised survivors for coming forward despite facing hostility from Brand’s devoted supporters

Katherine Ryan has spoken about her emotional reaction to Russell Brand being found guilty of rape and sexual assault, describing her feelings as a mixture of grief and relief.

Speaking on her Telling Everybody Everything podcast, the comedian reflected on Thursday’s verdict at Southwark Crown Court and praised the women who came forward to report Brand.

According to Deadline, Ryan said the conviction left her feeling emotionally unsettled but deeply impressed by the survivors who spoke out despite the comedian’s fame, influence and devoted following.

"They came forward despite Russell Brand having fame, power, money, and a legion of fans ready to attack them," she said.

Ryan added that although she felt some relief following the verdict, she was also thinking about the lasting impact on those who had experienced sexual violence.

"I will never be someone who like, dances on graves. There has been some justice done today. There’s a level of relief, but there’s grief alongside relief," she explained.

Ryan previously attracted attention for confronting Brand during the recording of Comedy Central’s Roast Battle in 2018. In 2023, she repeatedly described him as a sexual predator during the programme’s recording, referring to allegations against him.

Her jokes were reportedly removed from the final broadcast after Brand objected to being targeted. According to Ryan, he eventually confronted her in her dressing room and presented her with a new contract that restricted the jokes she could make about him.

She later discussed the experience without naming Brand during an appearance on Louis Theroux Interviews..., saying she had publicly called an unnamed colleague a predator.

Brand was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women. He was also cleared of two rape charges and one attempted indecent assault allegation.

He is due to be sentenced on November 9, with a significant prison term expected.