Comedian Russell Brand Named Alternative MacTaggart Speaker

The Edinburgh International Television Festival has revealed that comedian, writer, actor and broadcaster Russell Brand will deliver the Alternative MacTaggart address.

Brand will be interviewed by Matt Morgan, XFM co-host and comedy writer behind Channel 4’s The Mimic and Very Important People. Brand will discuss his dedication to comedy, his portfolio of work on and off screen and more. Previous Alternative MacTaggart speakers include Sharon Horgan, Nicola Sturgeon, Mary Portas, Charlie Brooker, Professor Brian Cox, Paul Abbott and Ant and Dec.

Festival Director Lisa Campbell said, “Thought-provoking, entertaining and with a delicious way with words, Russell is one of the most exciting creative mavericks around. Having Matt on board as someone who knows the complexities and inner workings of this titan of comedy, and who can give genuine insight into his creative brain, will make this one unmissable hour.”