British comedian Russell Brand has been formally charged with multiple counts of sexual assault in the United Kingdom, London’s Metropolitan Police announced on Friday, as per Al Jazeera.
The charges include one count of rape, one of indecent assault, one of oral rape, and two counts of sexual assault. They stem from complaints made by four women regarding alleged offenses that occurred between 1999 and 2005.
Brand, 50, who was once a prominent figure in British entertainment and broadcasting, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. While acknowledging numerous past sexual relationships, he has maintained that they were “always consensual.”
The charges follow an investigation triggered by media reports published over a year ago by British broadcaster Channel 4 and The Sunday Times, which detailed assault allegations from four women against Brand.
The Metropolitan Police stated that the investigation into Brand “remains open” and encouraged anyone affected or with information relevant to the case to come forward.
Speaking with conservative American political commentator Tucker Carlson in January 2024, Brand described the accusations against him as “very, very painful.”
Known for his provocative stand-up routines, Brand also hosted numerous shows on radio and television, authored memoirs documenting his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, appeared in several Hollywood films, and was married to pop star Katy Perry from 2010 to 2012.
In recent years, Brand has largely withdrawn from mainstream media and instead cultivated a significant online following with videos that combine wellness topics and conspiracy theories. He recently disclosed that he had relocated to the United States.
Police have confirmed that Brand is scheduled to appear in a London court on May 2.
The latest news in your social feeds
Subscribe to our social media platforms to stay tuned