Russell Brand gets U.S. comedy special

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NEW YORK, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- British comedian Russell Brand has signed on to tape a one-hour stand-up special in New York, Comedy Central announced Wednesday.

Brand, who recently served as host of the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, is to tape the special next month. Featuring Brand and an "eclectic roster of special guests," the show is scheduled to air in 2009, the network said.

"Russell Brand's comedy is a perfect match for our audience. He's a fresh new face with a rock-star aura and a unique and unpredictable act that pushes the envelope of comedy," Elizabeth Porter, senior vice president of specials and talent at Comedy Central, said Wednesday. "American audiences who have been exposed to Russell through 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' and the VMAs have seen just the tip of the iceberg."

"Comedy Central is the home of 'South Park,' 'The Daily Show' and 'The Sarah Silverman Program.' I am thrilled to have such esteemed neighbors -- particularly Sarah whom I shall be constantly troubling for cups of sugar and milk, breast milk," added Brand.