Former comedian Russell Brand has been invited into US President Donald Trump’s list of close friends, having declared himself a born-again Christian having previously rejected religion17:44, 11 Apr 2025Updated 17:56, 11 Apr 2025Russell Brand responds after rape and sexual assault chargesRussell Brand has managed to secure a place in Donald Trump’s “inner circle” after reinventing himself.Former actor and comedian Russell, 49, was charged with rape and sexual assault charges earlier this month, which he denies. And in recent months he has built up a major following from other American senior officials, including Elon Musk, who defended Russell against the “witch hunt” brought against him previously.Article continues belowBut in recent months, Russell has been able to work his way into the American political elite’s circles, thanks to his stated conversion to Christianity. After having previously rejected religion outright for spirituality, Russell has since declared himself a born-again Christian, which has seemingly convinced several high-up officials in the White House to bring him close to the President.Back in February, the Forgetting Sarah Marshall star was gifted a “Global Defender of Freedom” award at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. Being hosted by one of Trump’s former security advisers, Russell was honoured at the black-tie event – despite being hit with allegations of sexual assault and rape months earlier, which he also denied.Russell was given a prestigious award by close pals of President Trump in February(Image: More