Russell Brand Released on Bail Over Rape and Sexual Assault Charges
British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been granted bail following his appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on charges linked to multiple alleged sexual offences.
The 49-year-old appeared in court on Friday facing five serious charges, including rape, oral rape, indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault, reportedly involving four different women over a six-year period between 1999 and 2005.
During the brief hearing, Brand spoke only to confirm his personal details and to acknowledge that he understood the bail conditions imposed. The court heard that the charges relate to incidents alleged to have occurred in Bournemouth and Westminster, London.
Among the allegations, Brand is accused of raping a woman in 1999, sexually assaulting another woman in 2004 by touching her breasts without consent, and committing oral rape that same year. He is also charged with indecently assaulting a woman in 2001 by allegedly dragging her toward a men’s toilet, and with sexually assaulting another woman between 2004 and 2005.
The charges follow a high-profile investigation published in September 2023 by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches, which detailed multiple allegations against the entertainer. Brand has firmly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that all his past relationships were consensual.
Wearing a black shirt unbuttoned at the chest, dark jeans, and sunglasses, Brand arrived at court amid a heavy media presence. He removed his sunglasses as proceedings began and remained composed throughout.
The judge directed that the case be transferred to Southwark Crown Court, where Brand is expected to appear on 30 May. He provided both his U.S. and U.K. addresses and expressed his understanding of the court’s instructions before leaving the courtroom.
In a video posted to social media after being charged, Brand said he welcomed the opportunity to defend himself in court and reiterated his intention to prove his innocence.
Brand, known for his flamboyant persona and controversial past, previously hosted shows on BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4, including Big Brother’s Big Mouth. He was married to pop star Katy Perry from 2010 to 2012 and is now married to Laura Gallacher, with whom he shares two children.
