Russell Brand Faces New Sexual Assault Allegations, Pleads Not Guilty
Russell Brand, the 50-year-old broadcaster, actor, and media personality, has entered a not guilty plea to two further charges of rape and sexual assault. The latest development in the ongoing case unfolded at Southwark Crown Court in London on Tuesday.
According to the Crown Prosecution Service, the new allegations relate to incidents alleged to have occurred in London in 2009, involving two women. This adds to the existing charges Brand previously denied – two counts of rape, one of indecent assault, and two of sexual assault – stemming from alleged offences between 1999 and 2005 in London and Bournemouth, involving four women.
Court Appearance and Next Steps
Brand appeared in court to formally enter his not guilty pleas. He was dressed in a distinctive leopard print shirt and carried a copy of the Bible, with several pages marked. A trial is already scheduled for June to address the original charges. A hearing will be held to determine whether these new allegations will be combined with the existing case.
His lawyer requested additional time to review the new allegations, as reported by Reuters. Recorder Andrew Baumgartner scheduled a case management hearing for March to address this matter.
The Investigation’s Origins
The investigation into Russell Brand was launched following reports published by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches in 2023. These reports brought forth serious allegations against the comedian and actor.
From Comedy to Hollywood
Russell Brand rose to prominence as a stand-up comedian and became a well-known face on British television, hosting shows like Big Brother’s Big Mouth and hosting radio programs on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music. He subsequently transitioned to a successful Hollywood career, appearing in films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him To The Greek. His career trajectory has been marked by both comedic success and, now, serious legal challenges.
He was released on bail and is expected to appear at Southwark Crown Court at a later date.
For further information on this developing story, you can refer to BBC News.
