Sources Say Russell Brand Keeps to Cell Amid Prison Taunts

A source told the Daily Mail that Brand was trying to appear calm while coping with distress over the length of his sentence. “He’s been trying not to show fear so is staying in his cell as much as he can,” the source said. Brand reportedly borrowed a Bible and prayer books from the prison library and spent hours reading, meditating and praying.

One account said he later went alone to the exercise yard with his Bible, reading aloud and looking up at the sky. After a prisoner called his name from a window, Brand reportedly raised a hand. Others then shouted insults, the source said. The account described him putting his arms behind his back and walking slowly toward the building rather than rushing inside.

A separate witness gave a less composed impression, saying Brand looked “miserable” and “a little scared” as inmates chanted and shouted at him, including one who called out, “Russell, lend me some money!” The Daily Mail also reported that members of the public shouted abuse as the prison van returned to Wandsworth at about 4:30 p.m. on the day of sentencing.

Other accounts described less hostile interactions. A source said Brand had seemed humble with the few inmates he had spoken to, adding that teasing and songs had been accompanied by some sympathy. Brand had reportedly told his wife, Laura Gallacher, “alright” and mouthed “I love you” as he was led away from Southwark Crown Court. His reported focus on prayer follows his public engagement with Christianity, including Bible readings and discussions of faith with Gallacher before his conviction.