Russell Brand: Open Secret Documentary at Netflix to Trace Stardom and Trial

Documentary follows Brand’s trajectory

Russell Brand: Open Secret is being made by 72 Films, a Fremantle company, whose credits include Jimmy Savile: A British Horror Story. Olivia Isaacs is directing the project.

The documentary will track Brand’s movement from comedy stardom to a criminal trial. It is expected to include archive footage and accounts from people close to the story.

Journalists describe investigation

The film will feature Rosamund Urwin, chief news correspondent at The Times, and Charlotte Wace, an investigations correspondent. Their reporting at The Times and The Sunday Times helped launch the investigation into Brand. The documentary will explore how Brand avoided punishment for so long, despite awareness of his behavior among people in the television industry.

Trial ends in prison sentence

Brand’s four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court drew widespread attention in Britain. He was sentenced on Monday to 10 years and six months in prison, then transferred to HMP Wandsworth.

Judge addresses victims’ accounts

Justice Bennathan reviewed the crimes in detail and referred to impact statements from four victims. He said Brand had acted with “staggering arrogance” and that members of his entourage had “indulged” his behavior. The judge said women retain the right to refuse consent and seek justice, regardless of what they wear, where they go or what they drink.