Russell Brand (born 4 June 1975) is a British comedian, actor, columnist, author, TV & radio personality, presenter, activist, and campaigner. Brand achieved mainstream fame in the UK for presenting a Big Brother spin-off, Big Brother's Big Mouth, and for his radio show, among other television series and award ceremonies. He is noted for various controversies that have surrounded him in the British media, such as the 2008 prank calls that led to his resignation from the BBC.