Bear Grylls Recalls Helping with Russell Brand’s Baptism and Says it Was a Privilege

Survival expert, adventurer, and television presenter Bear Grylls assisted in Russell Brand’s baptism in the River Thames.

God Updates

Updated May 22, 2025

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Survival expert, adventurer, and television presenter Bear Grylls assisted in Russell Brand’s baptism in the River Thames.

Russell Brand posted a photo on Instagram of himself embracing Bear and another friend during the baptism. The caption reads, “Me, Bear Grylls, The River Thames and of course, The Holy Spirit.”

Bear Calls Himself An Unconventional Christian

Bear is known for starring in Discovery Channel’s Man Vs Wild and hosting Running Wild With Bear Grylls on National Geographic. The two friends Bear, 49, and Russell Brand, 48, met when Russell was on the show Running Wild.

Bear has called himself an “unconventional Christian” and promotes the Alpha Course, an evangelical course that introduces the basics of Christian faith through a series of talks and discussions.

The television host has spoken about his own Christian faith. “But, in a nutshell, my faith tells me that I am known, that I am secure, and that I am loved – regardless of the storms I may find myself in from time to time, regardless of how often I fall and fail,” he said in a GQ article from a few years ago.

First week as a Christian and the biggest challenge has been… pic.twitter.com/GHTL8g0Orl
— Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) May 6, 2024

It Was a Privilege To Stand Beside His Friend

When it comes to standing by his friend Russell and assisting with the baptism, Bear stated, “Faith and spiritual moments in our lives are really personal, but it is a privilege to stand beside anyone when they express a humble need for forgiveness and strength from above.”

We wrote about Russell Brand last month when he announced his baptism and talked about his new Christian faith. In a video he posted on Twitter/X last week he talks more about the experience.

“Week one as a Christian has been amazing,” Russell says. "The ceremony itself was incredible. I want to thank Bear Grylls and my mate Joe, the two men who stood on either side of me and flanked me for the baptism. It was pretty incredible."

He also talks about how his friend Joe injured his foot. “We went straight from the baptism into the necessary Christian life of helping people and got him to a hospital.”

Russell was baptized on April 28th in the River Thames near his home in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. Including good friends in the process makes the moment even more special. It is a time to bond together as brothers in Christ.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Russell Brand (@russellbrand)

Baptism is a Time of Renewal

Baptism is a time of renewal. It is a way to acknowledge a belief in Jesus Christ and show the world that you are a Christian. Russell Brand’s baptism appears to have been a big part of the changes he has made in the last year. He is fully embracing being a Christian and growing closer to God.

“Go you therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” – Matthew 28:19

Photo Credit: Instagram/russellbrand
Originally published on God Updates. Used with permission.

Russell Brand is a British actor, comedian, and author who has undergone a dramatic transformation from a life of addiction and chaos to one of spiritual seeking and openness to Christ. Known for his intellectual curiosity and bold commentary, Russell has recently embraced Christianity, publicly sharing his journey of faith and baptism. His willingness to explore Scripture, question cultural narratives, and speak about Jesus has captured the attention of believers around the world. Russell often interviews Christian leaders and actors, including The Chosen star Jonathan Roumie, exploring the relevance of Jesus today. His spiritual awakening is a compelling testimony of redemption and the power of God to change hearts.