Katy Perry’s former nickname for Russell Brand resurfaces after his conviction

Katy Perry’s 2013 comments about Russell Brand have resurfaced following his rape and sexual assault convictions

Katy Perry’s past comments about her marriage to Russell Brand have resurfaced following the comedian’s conviction for rape and sexual assault in London.

Among the remarks attracting renewed attention is a nickname Perry reportedly used for her former husband during a conversation with British broadcaster Piers Morgan at a Vanity Fair party in 2013.

She referred to Brand as “Rasputin”, referencing the Russian mystic Grigori Rasputin, who was associated with the family of Tsar Nicholas II.

Morgan recalled the exchange in a September 2023 account for The Sun. According to his recollection, Perry discussed her attraction to British men before making an exception for Brand.

“You Brits are all the same, so damn confident… Trouble is, I find that irresistible. I love Brits… Well, not all of them – not Rasputin, obviously,” she reportedly told him.

Morgan later shared the nickname with Brand, who appeared to welcome the comparison. Recalling Brand’s response, Morgan quoted him as saying, “GRIGORI RASPUTIN! He was a pretty powerful bloke; he could manipulate folks with his eyes. I like Rasputin… he was all right, wasn't he… a mad monk with magical, mystical powers, having it off with everyone, drinking and getting into fights.”

The comments have resurfaced after Brand, 51, was convicted on November 5 of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women.

The three-week trial also resulted in his acquittal on two other rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.

Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy described the conviction as “a testament to the extraordinary courage, resilience and determination of the women who came forward and reported what happened to them.”

Furphy also said, “Brand used his influence, status and fame to exploit and sexually offend against women. As his profile grew, so too did his sense of entitlement.”