Comedian and movie star Russell Brand is making a surprise move by launching FX’s first late-night series. BrandX with Russell Brand showcases Brand’s unfiltered comedic point of view on news, politics and pop culture. The recently transplanted Englishman and ex-pop-star husband also interacts with the audience on the topics in an intimate setting.

MANjr was lucky enough to attend the premiere taping of BrandX on Monday. If one thing is for certain, the years of drug abuse as a former addict hasn’t slowed down Brand. The well-spoken provocateur was quick on his feet about any given subject. Though we know Brand best for his unconventional sense of humor, there is a serious element to the show. According to Brand, he is calling for a change in consciousness because the people he’s speaking to – the younger generation, the disillusioned, the disenfranchised – don’t feel like their concerns are being addressed.

Joining BrandX as a political, economic and historical consultant is former Congressional policy advisor and Harvard University graduate Matt Stoller. Brand met Stoller in Zucotti Park in Lower Manhattan during the Occupy Wall Street protests in New York City. According to Stoller, they both started talking about politics as they watched. Brand, who calls Stoller a perfect blend of Willy Wonka and Charlie Bucket from the original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory based on his appearance, thought they could sync politically so he approached him about the show.

Despite touching on some serious subject matter, BrandX is still a TV comic commentary. It will be interesting to see how the British newspaper The Sun’s three-time “Shagger of the Year” will do in a market dominated by the likes of Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert and Bill Maher. Or if Brand will continue to go in a new direction entirely.

FX picked up six episodes of BrandX to round out its new Thursday-night comedy lineup which includes the return of Wilfred and Louie for new seasons, and Anger Management, a new sitcom starring Charlie Sheen. Tune in to BrandX at 11 p.m. tonight on FX!

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