Russell Brand Denies Sexual Assault Allegations

By Reuters

September 16, 2023

British comedian and actor Russell Brand walks outside the Wembley Park Theatre, in northwest London, Britain, September 16, 2023. REUTERS/Susannah Ireland

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has vehemently denied allegations of sexual assaults, including rape, made by four women during a seven-year period when he was extremely famous. The allegations were reported by the Sunday Times newspaper, which did not indicate whether the women had made formal complaints to the police. Brand’s representatives were unavailable for comment after the report was published.

The Times, in its report, disclosed that the incidents occurred between 2006 and 2013. One of the women accused Brand of rape, while another alleged that he assaulted her when she was 16 and still attending school. The paper revealed that two of the incidents took place in Los Angeles.

Channel 4 TV’s “Dispatches” was set to broadcast further details of the allegations later on Saturday, alongside clips of the women discussing their experiences on social media. In response, Brand posted a video message on social media, denying the allegations and asserting that they were a mixture of absurd and serious claims. He admitted to being promiscuous during the time in question, but maintained that all his relationships were consensual.

The joint investigation by the Sunday Times and “Dispatches” began in 2019. Brand, once a prominent figure in British comedy, gained fame for his flamboyant style and appearances in various media formats. He was married to US singer Katy Perry for a short period before they divorced. Brand now primarily focuses on online projects, hosting podcasts and shows on social media.

Brand expressed his willingness for his past behavior to be discussed openly, but firmly rejected the serious criminal allegations made against him.