Russell Brand's role as host of this year's MTV Video Music Music Awards was always set to stir up debate – but it's unlikely the broadcaster ever envisaged the comedian creating the reaction he has.
Brand's monologues at the ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday covered everything from the forthcoming presidential election to the sexual status of America's latest heartthrobs the Jonas Brothers.
On the former, the comedian said: "Some people, I think they're called racists, say America is not ready for a black president.
"But I know America to be a forward-thinking country because otherwise why would you have let that retarded cowboy fella be president for eight years. We were very impressed. We thought it was nice of you to let him have a go, because, in England, he wouldn't be trusted with a pair of scissors."
While his liberal approach to comedy was well received by most guests at the event, it seems his jokes have divided the majority of Americans.
One Gigwise reader, whenwillyousee, got in contact to voice their support for Brand's choice of words.
“GOOD!!! America wake up and see what's going on! I pray we get out and vote in November....just like Russell said we have had enough BS!!!!! We need a new beginning.......and finally someone who will help the people,” they wrote.
As has been evident in much of the US media today, however, many feel that the comedian took it too far.
Another reader, Reinseug, told us: “Russell Brand is a moron and any left wing liberal nut job who agrees with his disgusting words about our country and your President is no better.
“Keep promoting this BS and McCain and Palin will have a cake walk to the Presidency.”
At a time when America faces its biggest election choice in recent memory, Brand's monologues appear to have shed new light on some of the major issues facing the countries voting public - not to mention the extent of the conservative-liberal divide.
Or is he just not funny?
What did you think of Russell Brand's performance? Did you find him funny? Was he the right choice? Post your thoughts by filling out the comment form below.
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- I thought he was an inspired choice. He proved how backward American humor is!
- How utterly Offensive for Anyone British, American, Republican, Democrat or Otherwise, who think it is acceptable, to use the word ’retard’’ so loosely. My eldest sister, who will soon turn 60 is mentally retarded. Why, How, has this become acceptable?? Yet this, I’’ll assume he is an adult, Russell Brand, can accuse people of being ’’racist’’, when he is Obviously racist himself..against retarded individua
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- This man has successfully used the US media to manipulate society in ways that should not have a bearing on the preisdential election. His comments in regards to sex and abstinence directly impact the way youth of America personify stars like the Jonas Brother’s. So what if they choose to live a life free from pre-marital sex, so what if America chooses to continue with a republican canidate. Obama says a lot of things that people want to hear but can he back it up. We get to deci
- For ****s sake you morons... HE IS A COMEDIAN!!!!
I give up...
- @ PB .. you do know ’retard’’ is not a race?
Even though the guy looks/dresses like a fag, it was hilarious, more because of everyones reaction after. I think Lil Wayne’’s sagging TIGHTASS pants was more offensive. TI owned the night though!
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