Russell Brand

Brilliant, edgy, and always hilarious, Russell Brand is one comedian that keeps us on our toes. This English star is a complex public figure. While his bacchanalian inner self may raise a few eyebrows, his intelligence and activism are worthy of admiration. But his success in comedy is undeniable with accolades such as Best Live Stand-up and Outstanding Contribution to Comedy from the British Comedy Awards. Russell Brand first caught attention as host of the UK parody, "Big Brother's Big Mouth." Acting roles in films soon followed, including a leading role in St. Trinian's and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, the latter of which made him a star in the US. His film career continued to grow with movies like Get Him to the Greek and the 2011 remake of Arthur, as well as numerous voiceovers in animated films, such as Hop and Despicable Me. Russell Brand is very forthcoming about his personal struggles, including a former drug addiction. Even the Dalai Lama commented on his remarkable openness when the two appeared together onstage. But with Brand, there's always a reason to laugh as evidenced in the enormous popularity of his stand-up comedy. He's done several tours, but if you're not lucky enough to score tickets when he comes to town, you can always catch up with a DVD, such as Life, Doing Life - Live, Scandalous - Live at the O2, or Live in New York City. And if you missed Brand's cover of "Pure Imagination" and "I am the Walrus" during the closing ceremony of the 2012 Olympics, be sure to pick up the Get Him to the Greek soundtrack, featuring 16 original songs. Brand fans will also love his books, including his autobiography, My Booky Wook, and collections of his writings for The Guardian, Irons in the Fire and Articles of Faith.