Bear Grylls has offered an explanation for why he attended Russell Brand’s baptism, despite the sexual assault allegations against the comedian.
Last May, the presenter and survival expert was seen in images shared by Brand as he was “taking the plunge” and “getting baptised” in the River Thames near Henley-On-Thames in Oxfordshire.
That followed a wave of accusations against Brand in September 2023 which saw him accused of multiple counts of rape, assault and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013. He has strongly denied all of the allegations.
Now, Grylls has spoken about his involvement in the ceremony during an interview promoting his new Netflix reality show Celebrity Bear Hunt. Explaining that he first met Brand when he appeared on the celebrity survival show Running Wild and they have remained friends ever since, he said (via Independent): “I try and live in a way that I never judge and I always try and love – and that principle doesn’t just apply to perfect people with perfect lives.”
“He was a Running Wild guest; I’m friends with many of our Running Wild guests. And I always try to think of that phrase, ‘WWJD’ – what would Jesus do? That’s been a guiding principle for me.”
Grylls continued: “I don’t feel particularly ‘churched’ in a formal sort of religion, but I have a strong Christian faith that’s been part of my life for many years. I say my prayers in the morning, say sorry, say thank you, say help. I’ve seen a lot of life. I’ve seen a lot of loss. I’ve seen a lot of difficult moments. And my faith has been a quiet strength and backbone through that.”
Brand’s baptism came as part of the comedian’s own conversion to Christianity in recent years. “What’s been explained to me is, it’s an opportunity to die and be reborn,” he said at the time. “An opportunity to leave the past behind and be reborn in Christ’s name. Like it says in Galatians: that you can live as an enlightened and awakened person.”
In the comments section below the original image, Grylls replied: “Was a privilege – we all need friendships, forgiveness, help and strength. Love to your wonderful family.”
In November, police asked the Crown Prosecution Service to consider bringing criminal charges against Brand. The case is currently being reviewed. Andy Furphy, Detective Superintendent of the Metropolitan Police, said: “Our investigation continues and a file has now been passed to the CPS. We have a team of dedicated officers providing specialist support to the women who have come forward. We are committed to investigating sexual offences, no matter how long ago they are alleged to have taken place.”
Brand recently confirmed that he has relocated to the US, shortly after the BBC apologised to employees who felt unable to speak up about his alleged misconduct.
The post Bear Grylls explains his presence at Russell Brand’s baptism in light of sexual assault allegations appeared first on NME.
