New court appearance
Comedian and media figure Russell Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London and pleaded not guilty to two fresh allegations — one count of rape and one count of sexual assault — that are said to date back to 2009. The claims are part of a wider set of accusations dating from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Where the legal process stands
Brand was already facing multiple charges from earlier allegations and entered not-guilty pleas to those last year. He is scheduled for trial in June, and a hearing next month will decide whether these new accusations will be combined with the existing case. His legal team has asked for more time to respond to the recent additions.
Courtroom cameo — hat and all
Arriving at court in a white cowboy hat and sunglasses, Brand — now 50 — kept up his distinctive look. When asked how he was feeling, he said he felt “blessed,” after publicly saying in 2024 that he had become a Christian. Flashy accessories aside, the matter remains a legal one to be settled in court.
From TV star to online provocateur
Brand rose to fame in the 2000s as a flamboyant TV and radio presenter, known for a loud personality and theatrical style. He also moved into film work, including a role in a 2010 comedy, and that same year married pop star Katy Perry — a short-lived marriage that ended the following year.
Where he is now
In recent years Brand has largely stepped away from mainstream TV and radio and focused on online platforms, where he comments on politics and free speech. That shift left him more visible on social feeds than on traditional screens.
What to watch next
The upcoming hearing will determine whether the new allegations are joined to the trial already set for June. As with all court matters, these are allegations and will be resolved through the legal process; no findings have been made yet.
