Christianity was the most powerful force for regression and subjugation for the last 1500 years or so.

Turns out it wasn't Christianity, just aristocracy.

Russel Brand went the other way around and became a Christian to keep supporting western ideals.

He was always a mediocre entertainer. First he rejected Christianity as part of his dog-and-pony show. Now he's come around, because the original bit couldn't pull the same audience. But its always just been a performance. The only thing he cares about as the attention (and the money it generates).