Famous comedian and actor Russell Brand has been charged with a new count of rape and another of sexual assault, police confirmed on Tuesday. The new charges relate to allegations from two women and come after five previous charges made in April involving four other women. These earlier charges included two counts of rape, one of indecent assault, and two of sexual assault, dating back more than 20 years.
The Crown Prosecution Service authorized the new charges. Brand, 50, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on January 20 in connection with these latest allegations. Meanwhile, a trial for the earlier charges is set to begin at Southwark Crown Court on June 16.
Brand has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex. In May, he pleaded not guilty to the five original charges. At that time, he acknowledged past mistakes, saying he had been a fool and a sex addict in his younger days, but added that he “never was a rapist.”
Once a well-known broadcaster in Britain and former husband of American pop singer Katy Perry, Brand rose to fame as a comedian with a distinct style combining sharp humor and personal storytelling. His career and public image have been significantly impacted by these allegations, drawing widespread media attention both in the UK and internationally.
The investigation into Brand began in September 2023 after allegations were reported by Channel 4 TV’s Dispatches program and The Sunday Times. Since then, the case has developed, with more women coming forward and additional charges being filed.
Russell Brand has yet to publicly comment on the new charges. Reuters and other news agencies have attempted to reach him for a statement.
This ongoing case has sparked discussions about accountability, the influence of celebrity status, and how long-past allegations are handled in the legal system. The upcoming court appearances will determine how the allegations are addressed legally, as Brand continues to maintain his innocence.
