Netflix Keeps Russell Brand Stand-Up Special Available but Stops Promoting It

Netflix plans to keep Russell Brand’s 2018 stand-up special, *Re:Birth*, on its service, while removing it from recommendations and search results for his name, according to the report. The decision followed internal discussions after Brand was convicted of rape and sexual assault and sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison. The show was filmed before a live audience at London’s Hackney Empire. In the special, Brand jokes about his sex life and the circumstances surrounding the conception of his first child. The report says his wife, Laura Brand, is thanked in the credits. Netflix will no longer actively promote the programme, but viewers can still find it by searching for British stand-up comedy. A Netflix source said the company prioritizes subscribers’ choice and control, including the ability to decide what to watch and when, with recommendations and ratings to guide them. The report notes that the service has previously kept other comedy specials available despite public calls for their removal. Brand was found guilty of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a four-week trial, according to the article. During sentencing, Justice Bennathan described him as a sexual predator and said his fame had protected him until allegations were reported by Channel 4 and The Times of London in 2023. The judge also praised the determination and bravery of the women who brought complaints, emphasizing their right to refuse regardless of what they wore, where they went or what they drank.