British authorities have escalated the legal battle against controversial comedian and actor Russell Brand, filing fresh criminal charges of rape and sexual assault. This development adds to the existing serious allegations the performer is already fighting in court.
New Charges Bring Total to Seven Counts
The UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced on Tuesday that it has authorised two new charges against the 50-year-old Brand. These include one count of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to two additional women. The CPS stated that these alleged offences occurred in 2009.
These latest accusations come on top of five previous charges Brand is already contesting. In April, he was charged with two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault. Those charges stemmed from an 18-month investigation triggered by allegations from four women. Prosecutors say those incidents happened between 1999 and 2005, with one in Bournemouth and three in London.
Brand has entered a not guilty plea to all the initial charges during a hearing at a London court earlier this year.
Court Dates and Trial Timeline Set
The comedian's legal proceedings now have a clear, extended timeline. Brand is expected to appear in court next on January 20, 2026, regarding the two new charges that have just been filed.
Furthermore, a full trial has been officially scheduled. It is set to begin in June 2026 and is anticipated to last between four to five weeks. This trial will address the totality of charges against him.
Brand's Response and Career Shift
When the first set of charges was made public in April, Russell Brand vehemently denied the allegations. In a social media video, he stated he welcomed the chance to clear his name. "I was a fool before I lived in the light of the Lord," Brand said. "I was a drug addict, a sex addict and an imbecile. But what I never was a rapist. I've never engaged in nonconsensual activity."
Once a mainstream media figure known for risqué comedy, films like "Get Him To The Greek," and public struggles with substance abuse, Brand has largely retreated from traditional media in recent years. He has cultivated a massive online following through content focused on wellness, conspiracy theories, and religious discussion.
It is important to note that The Associated Press and other reputable media outlets do not name alleged victims of sexual violence. UK law also provides lifelong anonymity to complainants in such cases.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, assault, or abuse, please reach out for immediate help. Contact a mental health professional, a trusted NGO, or a confidant. Several helplines are available to provide support and assistance.
