Jimmy Carr draws criticism over clip mocking Russell Brand’s conviction to promote Killing Jokes comedy tour

Comedian Jimmy Carr has found himself at the centre of an online row after sharing a clip mocking Russell Brand’s conviction while promoting his upcoming tour.

Carr shared the video to X on Monday as he promoted Killing Jokes, a new show coming to venues across the UK and US in 2027.

The timing of the post quickly became a talking point, with the clip appearing an hour after Brand was handed a 10-and-a-half-year prison sentence for rape and sexual assault.

In the stand-up appearance, Carr is asked by an audience member what he makes of Brand.

“What do I think about Russell Brand? Well, this is interesting. It’s crazy to think that Russell Brand is going to jail for something he didn’t do… get consent,” Carr responded.

“I think Russell Brand’s views on sex and consent are going to radically change in the next week.”

The video prompted a mixed response, with some viewers questioning why Carr had chosen to share the the video as part of a tour promotion so soon after the sentencing.

“Trying to sell tickets on the back of a rapist being sent down is a scum move,” one person commented.

“Really Jimmy? You should be ashamed, I thought you had more integrity than that. Scraping the barrel with prison rape jokes and turning your back on him for a few cheap laughs. I’ve been a fan and follower of yours since 05, never thought I’d witness you sell out for the mob,” another added.

But the reaction was far from unanimous, with other users defending Carr’s comedy.

“Laughed out loud for the first time ever at Jimmy Carr joke(s). Really good and demonstrates just how clever at thinking on their feet (stand up) some comedians are,” one user wrote.

Brand was found guilty on November 5 at Southwark Crown Court of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women.

The offences included the rape of a 21-year-old woman at Brand’s London home in 2009.

Several other women, including former employees of Channel 4, MTV and Capital Radio, also accused the 51-year-old of sexual misconduct.

Passing sentencing, Justice Bennathan delivered a damning assessment of Brand’s behaviour, describing his “staggering arrogance.”

“About 20 years ago Russell Brand, you were becoming famous, you were clever, and in many people’s eyes you were funny and charismatic,” Mr Bennathan said.

“You had also become a sexual predator.”