Actor and comedian Russell Brand testified in a London court on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, denying allegations of rape and sexual assault brought by six women. Brand, 51, has pleaded not guilty to three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and one count of attempted indecent assault. On the stand at Southwark Crown Court, Brand stated that while he was "obsessed with sex" and promiscuous during the period in question, he maintained that all his sexual encounters were consensual.
The trial follows a presentation of evidence by prosecutors regarding incidents alleged to have occurred between 1999 and 2009. The allegations gained public attention following a Channel 4 "Dispatches" documentary, which Brand claims prompted a "coordinated attack" by the media due to his role as an online commentator. The complainants in the case stated they came forward after being approached by reporters, citing Brand's online prominence as a factor in their decision to speak.
During his testimony, Brand addressed specific allegations, including a 1999 hotel room encounter and a 2009 incident at his home. Regarding a woman's claim that he raped her after a cabaret show, Brand testified that she had invited him to the room and that he believed "consent is absolutely non-negotiable." Addressing a 2009 allegation of anal rape, Brand confirmed the sexual encounter occurred but stated the woman had consented and he saw no sign she was in pain. He also denied a 2001 allegation involving an MTV employee and a 2004 allegation at a London bar, though he admitted he initially told police he had no memory of the 2004 meeting before later recalling it.
Brand testified that the allegations have had a "devastating" impact on his life, noting that he was barred from staying with his infant son in the hospital and that friends and colleagues have distanced themselves from him. His YouTube channel was demonetized by the company following the allegations. Additionally, he was dropped by his talent agency and faced the cancellation of scheduled live performances.
The trial at Southwark Crown Court is ongoing. Brand remains free on bail as the proceedings continue in London.