Crime and Courts

Comedian Russell Brand charged with rape and sexual assault

The comedian, author and “Get Him To The Greek” actor previously denied published allegations of assault, saying his relationships were “always consensual.”

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The British comedian and actor was charged with two counts of rape, indecent assault and two counts of sexual assault.

British police on Friday charged comedian Russell Brand with rape and sexual assault after an investigation sparked by complaints from several women.

London’s Metropolitan Police force said Brand, 50, faces one count of rape, one of indecent assault, one of oral rape and two of sexual assault.

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The alleged offenses took place between 1999 and 2005.

In September 2023, British media outlets Channel 4 and the Sunday Times published claims by four women of being sexually assaulted or raped by Brand. The accusers have not been identified.

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The comedian, author and “Get Him To The Greek” actor has denied the allegations, saying his relationships were “always consensual.”

Known for his unbridled and risqué stand-up routines, Brand hosted shows on radio and television, wrote memoirs charting his battles with drugs and alcohol, appeared in several Hollywood movies and was briefly married to pop star Katy Perry between 2010 and 2012.

In recent years, Brand has largely disappeared from mainstream media but has built up a large following online with videos mixing wellness and conspiracy theories. He recently said he had moved to the United States.

Police said Brand is due to appear in a London court on May 2.

Russell Brand denies sexual assault allegations
Russell Brand is denying sexual assault allegations made against him. In a video posted to his social media accounts, the star said he "absolutely refutes" the sexual assault claims and said his relationships have all been consensual.
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