Instagram/@russellbrand
After the UK government officially announced the gigantic pandemic preparedness exercise, it sparked a cryptic post from Russell Brand. The actor-commentator shared a snippet featuring one of the government officials referring to the “largest ever national pandemic exercise,” to which Brand sarcastically responded, “So guess what? There’s going to be another pandemic.” His very concise caption, “Erm…is anyone else seeing this?” sparked a furious debate among viewers, responses ranging from outright refusal to dark jokes about potential future lockdowns.
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The clip goes on with Brand backward etymologizing pandemic planning with a caustic wash of sarcasm. “This has been captured by a completely corrupt system,” he said, putting forth his views that politicians act in state interests rather than that of their constituents. Differing views as to the institutions’ response since the dubious measures against COVID-19 have only grown.
In the comments section, theories were thrown around at all opposing viewpoints; some hailed Brand, “You the man Russell keep keeping it real. Brass balls all day,” and, tenderly, other users mourned themselves as “I wish I could express myself like you!!”The commentators partially show the positioning Brand enjoys as the voice of contra-establishment narratives.
Other comments at least approached renewed pandemic planning practically: “‘4 years on from ‘freedom day’ – & they are pushing for dig id all over again’,” one user wrote, alluding to digital identity systems pushed for during COVID-19. Another bluntly stated: “No – not going to participate,” clearly showing that the resistance is strengthening.
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Other comments were: “Dark humor was there, too. I’m so excited. When will the sheep start buying up toilet paper?”-referring to panic buying during the first pandemic. Others wondered whether pandemic lockdowns could ever happen again: “Hahahaha they seriously think they could pull another pandemic? With this many people awakened? Brand’s influence is evident as many question the likelihood of another similar event.”