Premium

Russell Brand granted conditional bail over rape and assault charges

Russell Brand made his first appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday, where he listened carefully from the dock but did not enter any plea.

Russell Brand arrives at Westminster Magistrates' court in London. (AP)

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been granted conditional bail in a rape and sexual assault case involving four women after appearing in a London court. The 49-year-old made his first appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he listened carefully from the dock but did not enter any plea.

Who is Russell Brand?

Russell Brand rose to fame through his edgy stand-up comedy and appearances on radio and TV. Known for his chaotic humour and candid discussions about addiction, Brand later found success in Hollywood with films like ‘Get Him to the Greek’. He was also briefly married to pop star Katy Perry.

In recent years, Brand has stepped away from traditional media and built a large online following, sharing videos that mix wellness advice with conspiracy theories. He now lives in Florida, US.

Story continues below this ad

What are the allegations?

Brand faces multiple charges related to alleged incidents that took place between 1999 and 2005. These include:

One count of rape in Bournemouth in 1999. A woman alleges she was assaulted in a hotel room during a Labour Party conference.
One count of indecent assault and one count of oral rape.
Two counts of sexual assault in separate incidents in central London between 2001 and 2005.

Also read | Who is Russell Brand? British comedian, actor facing rape and sexual assault charges

According to the Associated Press (AP), one woman says Brand “grabbed her by the forearm” and tried to pull her into a male toilet at a TV station in 2001. Another accuser, a TV worker, claims Brand “grabbed her breasts” and later forced her into a toilet in 2004.

The final alleged incident involves a woman working at a radio station. She says Brand “grabbed her by the face,” pushed her against a wall, kissed her and touched her inappropriately while he was working on a Big Brother spin-off show.

What happened in court?

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring granted Brand bail on the condition that he informs the court of his address whether he’s in the UK or the US and attends all future hearings. Brand is due to appear at the Central Criminal Court, also known as the Old Bailey, on 30 May.

Story continues below this ad

Also read | Comedian Russell Brand denies allegations of sexual assault published by three UK news organisations

The AP reports that Brand, dressed casually in an open shirt and jeans, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and that he understood his bail conditions.

If he fails to meet the terms of his bail, he could be taken into custody.

What has Russell Brand said?

Brand has denied the allegations from the start. After being charged last month, he posted a video on social media platform X, saying he welcomed the chance to “prove his innocence.” He has said all past encounters were consensual.

The charges come following a joint investigation in September 2023 by Channel 4 and the Sunday Times.

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram