Noel Gallagher Slams Media Over Russell Brand Resignation

Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher has accused the media of overreacting over a series of prank radio calls which forced comedian Russell Brand to resign from the BBC.

Brand announced late yesterday afternoon that he was leaving the broadcaster because he took “complete responsibility” for four answer phone messages he and Jonathan Ross left on actor Andrew Sachs' telephone.

On one of the messages, which were broadcast on Brand's BBC Radio 2 programme, the comedian claimed he had slept with Sachs' granddaughter.
 
The pair also joked that the actor might kill himself as a result of the comedian's claim.

'Joyless Fuckers'

Speaking to BBC Radio Ulster's Across The Line, Gallagher, a frequent guest on Brand's show, said the comedian had told him he was “going to fall on his sword” before announcing his decision.

"Personally, I'm outraged that, yet again, the joyless fuckers who write the columns in the Daily Mail, The Telegraph or The Observer have dictated the tone and are telling people how to behave,” Gallagher said.

"I've seen the Daily Mail, they said that Russell should be arrested and charged. Arrested for what? For taking the piss? It's so typical of the English in general. 10,000 people get outraged, but only days after it has happened."

Only two people initially complained to the BBC about the programme, which was aired on October 18th.

Public Outrage

However, that figure has soared since the pair's comments were published in the latest edition of the Mail on Sunday.

Gallagher added: "At worst it was a juvenile prank that wasn't unfunny but it's hardly offensive. I feel bad for Russ, 'cause he really loved doing the show. I loved being on it as well."

Sachs' granddaughter, Georgina Baillie, had led calls for Brand to be dismissed from his job. She has since spoken of her happiness at the comedian's decision. 

Ross, who issued a full public apology yesterday, is still suspended by the BBC pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

Brand caused controversy last month as host of the MTV Video Music awards in America when he called President George W Bush a “retard”.