Even years after it took place, the relationship between comedian Russell Brand and pop star Katy Perry, which was characterized by its rapid development and a dramatic breakup, continues to be a source of curiosity. Recently, Brand discussed this period of his life in detail on Running Wild with Bear Grylls: The Challenge , revealing the turbulent nature of their brief marriage. The pair’s journey began in 2010 when Perry first met Brand while filming a romantic scene for his film, Get Him to the Greek . A head-spinning whirlpool of shared laughter and strong attraction characterized their courtship. On October 10, 2010, the pair exchanged vows in a magnificent Hindu wedding ceremony as they were the center of attention across the world, per People . However, this quick rise would shortly be followed by an abrupt fall.
Fast-forward 14 months to December 2011, when Brand’s decision to divorce Perry made headlines worldwide. The emotional highs and lows that followed were captured heartbreakingly in a moment from Perry’s documentary Part of Me . Perry learned of Brand’s plans via a text message she got while she was getting ready for a New Year’s Eve performance. Her emotional response, which was a combination of disbelief, despair, and the unwavering spirit that pushed her onto the stage despite her own suffering, is captured in the video. The recent candid conversation between Brand and Bear Grylls provides insight into the turbulent feelings of that period. He expressed his appreciation for how fantastic their time together had been, calling Perry an “amazing person.” However, the comedian’s emotion is tinged with an admission of the instability and detachment he felt throughout his marriage.
He said, “She’s an amazing person. It was kind of incredible to live for a moment in that eye of the cyclone type aspect of fame.” He revealed, “Aside from my sort of feelings of affection for Katy, it’s a time that I remember being a little bit chaotic and a bit for me … a little disconnected,” per HuffPost. Perry has also expressed her perspective on their connection. She discussed her love for Brand in a 2013 interview with Vogue , highlighting the initial spark that brought them together. However, the dynamics changed as the relationship did. Perry emphasized the power struggle that resulted from Brand supposedly feeling uneasy about her taking on a position of authority during her tours. She acknowledged that this tension contributed to their growing distance.
Perry informed the magazine at the time, “He’s a very smart man, and I was in love with him when I married him. Let’s just say I haven’t heard from him since he texted me saying he was divorcing me on December 31, 2011.” By choosing different paths, Brand and Perry both transformed their relationships and their lives. Perry has found love in actor Orlando Bloom, with whom she has a daughter. While Laura Gallacher and Brand, who had an on-and-off relationship, got married in 2017 and are now expecting their third child.