Actor and comedian Russell Brand, who was recently charged with rape and sexual assault in the UK, is set to appear at the New College of Florida for a conversation on free speech and cultural power. While Brand has denied the charges and plans to fight them, the event at the Sarasota school aims to provide a space for dialogue on controversial topics such as cancel culture. Brand’s involvement in conservative politics, including appearances with Tucker Carlson and support for Donald Trump on social media, reflects a shift towards the right for both Brand and the New College of Florida. The event, which will feature an interview by a local film festival chairman, is seen as a commitment to civil discourse despite the controversy surrounding Brand’s legal troubles. The charges against Brand stem from alleged incidents from 1999 to 2005 involving four women, and he is due in court in London on May 2. The New College of Florida, once known for its liberal-leaning ideology, has undergone a transformation under Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, aligning it more closely with conservative politics. Brand’s appearance at the college has sparked debate and criticism, but the school maintains its commitment to exploring ideas with respect and critical thought.
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