Russell Brand breaks his silence as he is charged with rape and sexual assaults against four women over six years

Russell Brand Charged with Multiple Sexual Offenses, Denies Allegations

Actor and comedian Russell Brand has addressed the mounting legal pressure after being formally charged with rape, indecent assault, oral rape, and two counts of sexual assault against four women. Brand has vehemently denied the accusations, stating unequivocally, ‘I have never been a rapist.’

Brand Refutes Claims, Criticizes Legal System

Brand responded to the serious sexual assault allegations leveled against him, criticizing the government for allegedly weaponizing the legal system. He reiterated his previous denials of ever engaging in non-consensual sexual activity.

In a video message shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Friday afternoon, Brand expressed gratitude to his supporters and affirmed his intention to contest the charges in court.

‘I was a fool before I lived in the light of the Lord. I was a drug addict, a sex addict and an imbecile,’ Brand stated in his video message. ‘But what I never was, was a rapist. I have never engaged in non-consensual activity – I pray that you can see that by looking in my eyes.’

Background to the Charges

These charges follow a joint investigation in September 2023 by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4 Dispatches, where multiple women accused the 49-year-old comedian of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse.

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The Metropolitan Police have formally charged Brand, who currently resides in Florida, via postal summons with one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape, along with two counts of sexual assault. These charges relate to incidents involving four separate women.

The alleged offenses are reported to have occurred between 1999 and 2005. Brand is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on May 2.

Details of the Allegations

The charges specify the alleged rape of a woman in the Bournemouth area in 1999, and the oral rape and sexual assault of another woman in the Westminster area of London in 2004.

Brand also faces charges for indecently assaulting a woman in 2001 and sexually assaulting another woman between 2004 and 2005, both offenses purportedly taking place in Westminster.

Brand’s Public Statements and Personal Life

Brand was previously married to pop singer Katy Perry from 2010 to 2012. In 2017, he married Laura Gallacher, sister of presenter Kirsty Gallacher; they have three children.

In his recent video statement on X, Brand asserted that the law was being misused as a weapon against individuals who challenge corruption.

After denying the sex offense allegations, he expressed gratitude for ongoing support and mentioned his show’s continuation on Rumble. He stated he welcomes the opportunity to defend himself in court.

Police and Prosecution Statements

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police stated that the women who have reported these incidents continue to receive support from specialized officers. He urged anyone affected or possessing information to contact the police via email at [email protected]. He also pointed to Rape Crisis’s 24/7 support line for additional assistance.

Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed the authorization to charge Russell Brand with multiple sexual offenses. She stated the decision followed a careful review of evidence gathered during a police investigation triggered by the Channel 4 documentary. Narwal emphasized that legal proceedings are active and that Brand has the right to a fair trial, cautioning against any commentary that could prejudice these proceedings.

Brand’s Recent Activities and Career History

Prior to the charges, Brand was seen at a record release event for Christian worship singer Brandon Lake in South Carolina. He expressed admiration for Lake’s ability to maintain his faith within the entertainment industry and spoke of his own recent Christian conversion.

In November 2024, the CPS confirmed receipt of evidence from the Metropolitan Police regarding sexual offense allegations against Brand. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that all sexual relationships were consensual.

At the time of the alleged offenses, Brand was a prominent figure, hosting shows on BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4, and appearing in Hollywood films.

Early Career and Sachsgate Scandal

Brand initially gained recognition through stand-up comedy and hosted Big Brother’s Big Mouth from 2004 to 2007. However, his career was significantly impacted by the 2008 Sachsgate scandal, involving lewd messages left on actor Andrew Sachs’ answerphone during a BBC Radio 2 prank with Jonathan Ross.

The incident caused public outcry, leading to Brand’s resignation, Ross’s suspension, and a BBC fine of £150,000 by Ofcom for ‘gratuitously offensive, humiliating and demeaning’ content.

Hollywood Career and Later Ventures

Despite the Sachsgate controversy, Brand’s Hollywood career flourished with roles in films such as ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ and ‘Get Him To The Greek’. He also starred in the remake of ‘Arthur’.

Brand’s personal life also made headlines, particularly his marriage to Katy Perry in 2010 and subsequent divorce in 2012.

In recent years, Brand has shifted focus to online platforms, adopting an anti-establishment stance. He has amassed large followings on YouTube, X, and Instagram, discussing topics ranging from Covid-19 skepticism to his newfound Christian faith and baptism in the River Thames by Bear Grylls in April of the previous year.

Brand relocated from Oxfordshire to the US, reportedly settling in Florida in February.