Columnist Peter Hitchens has called for a thorough examination of consciences among media institutions that provided a platform for Russell Brand, citing his personal experiences with the comedian and commentator.
In an opinion piece published November 10, 2026, Hitchens expressed that while he is too prejudiced by his own encounters with Brand to judge him, he is "angry with the left-wing establishment" for treating Brand as a "serious figure in British politics."
Hitchens recalled instances where Brand was "extremely rude and personally unpleasant," including heckling him on the BBC and making unwelcome advances. He criticized outlets such as the BBC and The Guardian for idolizing and lionizing Brand, offering him opportunities not available to most others.