Russell Brand has issued a defiant video statement after being charged with rape, oral rape, sexual assault and indecent assault in relation to allegations from four women between 1999 and 2005.
The 49-year-old comedian is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on May 2. The charges follow an investigation launched after a Channel 4 documentary aired in September 2023. Brand has denied all wrongdoing.
Brand denies all charges in social media video
In a clip posted to social media shortly after the charges were made public, Brand told fans he had been “completely transparent” about his past behaviour but insisted he had never committed rape or non-consensual acts.
“I’ve always told you that when I was young and single, before I had my wife and my family who are just out of shot over there—my beautiful children—I was a fool, man,” he said. “I was a drug addict, a sex addict, an imbecile.”
“But what I never was, was a rapist. I’ve never engaged in non-consensual activity. I pray that you can see that by looking in my eyes. I want to thank all of you for your continuing support.”
Brand also said he was looking forward to facing the charges in court and continuing to speak to his audience. “I now have the opportunity to defend these charges and I’m incredibly grateful for that,” he said.
“In the meantime, you lot, stay free—and we will be continuing to discuss this matter. Praise the Lord.”
Police and prosecutors issue response
The Metropolitan Police said Brand is facing five charges relating to four separate women. These include an allegation of rape in Bournemouth in 1999, indecent assault in Westminster in 2001, oral rape and sexual assault in Westminster in 2004, and another sexual assault between 2004 and 2005.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said the women involved are receiving support and urged others to come forward if they have any relevant information.
Jaswant Narwal from the Crown Prosecution Service said the decision to charge Brand followed a detailed review of evidence. “It’s extremely important that there be no reporting or online commentary that could prejudice these proceedings,” she said.
The investigation remains ongoing.
