Russell Brand Pleads Not Guilty to New Rape and Sex Assault Charges in UK
February 24, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Russell Brand Pleads Not Guilty to New Rape Charges in London Court
British comedian and actor Russell Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London on Tuesday, denying accusations of raping one woman and sexually assaulting a second woman in 2009. The charges are part of an ongoing case against Brand, who was previously charged with five counts of rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault against four women between 1999 and 2005.
Brand, 50, is due to stand trial in June and has pleaded not guilty to the original charges. A hearing will be held next month to determine whether the new allegations should be joined to that case. Brand’s lawyer stated that his client needs more time to address the latest offenses.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the new charges involve two additional women, bringing the total number of alleged victims to six. The charges were issued in December 2023, and Brand was previously charged with five counts of rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault against four women between 1999 and 2005.
Brand’s career has spanned multiple fields, including stand-up comedy, television presenting, and radio hosting. He rose to prominence in the early 2000s and has since appeared online, sharing his views on various topics.
Source: Al Jazeera